Methodist decision
I recently read the article in the March 9 issue of the Herald regarding the United Methodist Church's general conference for 2012 not being held in Richmond due to the R-Braves name being racially charged. While I don't agree with their stand I understand their concern and respect their decision, but to choose Tampa? The home of the “Devil” Rays may be offensive to those desiring to follow Christ, and the Tampa “Yankees” would certainly be offensive to any good southerner.
While I write this in jest, I wonder if our causes give lost people way too much ammunition for NOT wanting to become Christian. It appears the good people of Richmond are getting snubbed by a major denomination whose official slogan is “Open Hearts, Open Minds, Open Doors.”
Scott Chafee, Chatham
Baptist or not?
Much has been written lately about our churches not identifying themselves as “Baptist.” It seems to be widely, but quietly, agreed that the title “Baptist” is a hindrance to recruiting, but nothing I've read states how we have come to this questionable condition.
Consider the following explanation: our highly publicized civil war in which the conservatives took control of the Southern Baptist Convention from moderates sent the public a message that not everyone is welcome in our ranks.
In our gallant quest for biblical authority we have inadvertently become the group known for what we are against rather than we we are for, not unlike the Pharisees of old. Our targets have included Mickey Mouse, public education, trick or treatin', Harry Potter and wives to presume to have a vote in family matters.
Our grand traditions of congregational authority and priesthood of the believer are being compromised by local pastors who see themselves as spiritual dictators. Freedom of thought is taking a back seat to blind obedience.
Because of these misguided efforts, what was once America's greatest evangelical denomination has been tragically reduced to cult status in the eyes of much of the secular domain.
In an attempt to be constructive, may I suggest we adjust any condescending or judgmental attitude toward others to that of our Savior's posture eloquently penned in a song, “He looked beyond my fault and saw my need.”
John H. Townsend, Memphis, TN