Thursday, 24 Betteroff 2008
Have you heard about that religiously insane Catholic priest who said that Democratic voters shouldn't be allowed to take Communion? By an amazing coincidence (that seems to be the sum and substance of my earthly existence this time around), one of my younger brothers' fiancee is a member of his (and a number of other priests performing services there) congregation. He's one of the priests that might be marrying my brother and his fiancee next April.
Any suggestions or ideas on how I should handle the situation would be greatly appreciated. My initial thoughts are to merely avoid going to the church ceremony altogether so as to create as little consternation as possible, and keep a low profile that evening. It's going to be hard enough being one of the godless heathens in frelling South Carolina, much less to be doubly damned because I voted for the next president, and apparently that's a sin as far as the Catholics* are concerned in South Carolina...
* - personal disclosure: I am an ex-Catholic (from a long line of currently mildly to extremely fervent Catholics) with this:
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on the back of the bumper of my car.
Tom,
Since you have been invited to enhance the happiness of their wedding day with your presence, I recommend that you support them by attending. No one says you have to believe in any of the Church stuff. If you believe their love is real, then you can bring your Church of Reality faith with you. I suppose you believe in them, in their love for one another and their desire to publicly proclaim it and solemnize it in a way that works for them. Since its about them and not about you, my humble bit of advice is that you be there for them. If you get some fresh grist for the mill and ammunition for your next diatribe, well, then you may end up being glad you went in any case. I'm pretty sure the building won't collapse when you enter, but wear a construction helmet in any case.
Paul
tom, I agree with Paul, make a go of it and leave your attitude at the door. Your presence there may be a sign to the world (or at least a few dozen astute attendees) that people can come together and enjoy significant occasions regardless of personal political/religious convictions. I wonder how true your characterization of this priest is with respect to his non-Christ-like opinion that all dems are hell-bound. I doubt he has this mantra on his bumper sticker, nor does he barr non-Republicans from attending mass in his parish. If you are indeed getting hard hats as Paul suggested, I suggest putting something like "give peace a chance" decals on them versus some notions presented on your foreign car bumper(!) When can we expect safety headwear for spritual events on the market?
drew