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I admire your dedication. I would like to say the same. But if Peter could tank, I could too. I would hope not, but for the grace of God, at least to this point, I haven't been put to the test. My take is that converting under extreme duress is somewhat understandable. Sucking up to Islam afterwards is despicable.

I'd rather be dead than have to live the rest of my life with the knowledge of my betrayal.

Well, if you were to repent and receive absolution, I'm sure the Lord would help you with the guilt. Ideally, we would all stand firm. Realistically, I would need the grace of God to assist me in facing such a fate.

St. Thomas More wrote a book called, "The Sadness of Christ". He advocated firmly that, although it is a matter of the highest glory to die willingly for our faith, it is neither sinful to protect one's life during a crisis by lying. Obviously, this was quite prescient, as he would face the test, himself, and pass with flying colors. But he pointed out that in the heat of the moment, there are those who simply cannot cope under heavy mental and emotional strain, and take the easier route.

I would have a lot more respect and understanding for these guys, now that they are safe - if they denounced Islam, even if they took the easier route of "converting" in order to be freed. This whole "religion of peace" thing is simply nauseating.