Unlike you in '98 I wasn't a Catholic and hadn't even admitted that I was interested even to myself and so probably never read the religious threads.
Growing up in a Protestant, mildly anti-Catholic home I never realized the extent of hatred that there was toward the Catholic Church until TNS. I've kind of been in shock ever since. I can't believe that the Church I've studied and through whom I find the presence of Christ on earth could be so DELIBERATELY misunderstood. I can't believe how the same people say the same things over and over again when they have to know it isn't true.
I've even cried a few times and if you knew me you'd know that I took it very seriously to actually allow myself that weakness. I literally skip most known Catholic-basher posters. I've learned not to compound their deliberate ignorance and I've prayed mightily for the Holy Spirit to enlighten them about love and charity.