Pilot suggested passengers discuss Christianity during LA-to-New York flight

SFGate.com ^ | 2/7/04 | AP

[CoolGuyVic]

An American Airlines pilot flying passengers from Los Angeles to New York asked Christians on board to identify themselves and then suggested that non-Christian passengers discuss the faith with them, the airline confirmed Saturday.

The pilot, whose identity was not released, had been making flight announcements before he asked that the Christians on board raise their hands, said American Airlines spokesman Tim Wagner.

[Rebelbase]

"I'll be damned if God is going to ride in the back of your bus or anyone else's."

I thought God was the co-pilot?

[The_Media_never_lie]

The first time some pilot announces over the PA that the passengers should "discuss" religion, I'm getting off of that plane ASAP. Even if I have to get arrested to do it.

So long as the Christians outnumber the Muslims I'm sticking with the plane.

[ovrtaxt]

Yeah, that's pretty odd for modern American society. But he just got back from a mission trip, and he was probably still excited about it.

You see, in other countries, people are much more up front about their beliefs, and they will tell you point blank about the eternal consequences. We Americans are much more refined, sensitive, and politically correct about it. Isn't that sweet?

Anyway, if the plane was falling out of the sky and I was on it, I would be bringing up the subject, personally. I know where I'm going, maybe others would like to come too. Sorry if I'm offensive.

[ovrtaxt]

Would all the muslims raise their hands? I'd like all you non muslims to discuss the koran with the muslims on the plane."

Actually, that's not a bad idea! I would take that on in a heartbeat.

[feedback doctor]

Shut up and fly the plane... Discussing religion in public is rude.

Our founding fathers were negligent to leave out the phrase "Freedom of religion, except in public places."

[ClintonBeGone]

How would you feel about a Jewish pilot asking all the Jewish passengers to identify themselves, then proselytize about Judaism?

If you had any appreciation of religion, you would know that we're all children of Jesus, a Jewish carpenter.

[ClintonBeGone]

He will if its someone elses airline.

About such a man as that I am ready to boast; but I will not boast on my own account, except of my weaknesses. (2 Corinthians 12:1-5)

[ClintonBeGone]

I thought God was the co-pilot?

God is everywhere, brotha.

[lucysmom]

There is nothing rude about discussing religion, it has only recently become considered rude by today's liberals and so-called secularists because it is not "politically correct" and the fear is that you might possibly "offend" someone.

I grew up in the 50s when it was considered inappropriate to discuss religion or politics with strangers. Much of what is called "politically correct" these days was simply known as "manners" way back then. And yes, the purpose of good manners was to not offend and to show respect.

Believe it or not, my parents have friends they've known for over half a century and don't even know how they vote.

[ClintonBeGone]

The people on the bus are not God. You honestly want the pilot to tell the guy next to you to spend the flight 'witnessing' to you?

When is a better time to witness to the Godless?

[ClintonBeGone]

I'm getting off of that plane ASAP. Even if I have to get arrested to do it.

Well, you had better accept Christ before they show you to the emergency exit door.

[ClintonBeGone]

In a captive environment (an airplane), you are rude to preach, teach, sell, or cajole anyone about something that is dear to your heart, no matter how dear it is.

Shall we all remember that when we read your tagline over and over again: "(Adopt a shelter dog or cat! You'll save one life, and maybe two!)" I guess we know that pound animals have a higher place in your life than their Creator?

[New Horizon]

I suppose sharing a faith based on love, mercy and forgiveness can be a horrible thing to some people...When will it be outlawed?

I think you may be missing the point...discussing Christianity is fine but a pilot telling you to do before a flight would be lead me to think that the flight may never get to the destination.

[New Horizon]

...a white-knuckle flyer...

LOL! You and me both. I don't need any added stress whatsoever when I'm flying in an airplane.

[William Terrell]

The pilot later told passengers he himself would be available at the end of the flight to talk about his first announcement.

The rest of the story:

. . .After the flight, a group representing the League of Atheists (click) approached the pilot and offered their thanks for his assistance. They were able to covert several Christians, they said. . .

[Quix]

rude?

Oh, that's right . . . .

right up to the moment the terrorists stand up and brandish their guns!

or

Right up to the moment the right engine starts smoking with flames flaring out it's sides ominously.

or

Right up to the moment the plane suddenly looses 10,000 feet in altitude and only after some very jolting gyrations sort of regains level flight while still descending alarmingly rapidly.

or

Right up to the moment the Moslem next to you begins talking very seriously about you saying your last prayers.

Priorities, Fred, Priorities.

If where you spend eternity is not a priority--so be it. Perhaps it is for someone else.

[Quix]

It was a bit cheeky.

No one was forced.

I'm skeptical any extra Christian conversation resulted.

Most people probably thought he was wierd and went back to their peanuts, magazines or MP4 players.

[Quix]

Or offer equal time and have bouncers ready to quiet the unruly!

[Quix]

When will it be outlawed? Probably within 3-12 years.

[Double Tap]

Why? Are the Christians going to take me out on the runway and shoot me?