Re: the discussion of tactics, I think that Blessed Charlemagne has a point. There seems to be a lot of "drive by posting" going on. What exactly is the function of the various posts like "JP2 sux!!!", "JP2 rulz!!!", or their rough equivalents?
I think that every Catholic who is posting to a discussion such as this one needs to first always make a serious examination of his own soul, to discern what is motivating him. Does he just want to "put his two cents in"? Or is he trying to edify his neighbor, or admonish a sinner, or confirm his brethren?
It seems to me the mere desire to express one's opinion proceeds from vanity, and should be avoided in any matter as serious as the present crisis, where failure to make careful distinctions can scandalize those of our brethren who are weaker in the faith. All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient. All things are lawful for me, but all things do not edify...Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatsoever else you do, do all to the glory of God.
Before everything a Christian says, or writes, or does, he ought to think of those who will hear him, or read him, or see him, and ask himself, "Will the True Faith be thought better of by my witness than before, or worse?" It is impossible that scandals should not come: but woe to him through whom they come.
Please at all times remember the sins of the tongue, and guard against them.
If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man...For if we put bits into the mouths of horses, that they may obey us, and we turn about their whole body...Even so the tongue is indeed a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold how small a fire kindleth a great wood. And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is placed among our members, which defileth the whole body, and inflameth the wheel of our nativity, being set on fire by hell.
Thank you. That is what I was trying to say.
Before you get too sanctimonious, read my post. It was about Opus Dei. Another poster claimed that if I couldn't prove my assertions, then I shouldn't be posting them.
I have had several negative, personal experiences with Opus Dei. If you don't like my opinions then fine. But to admonish me for not posting "evidence" is childish.
Please at all times remember the sins of the tongue, and guard against them.
Read your own words. In your effort to be holier than thou, you are coming across as as Pharisee.
Present crisis? Is that phrase a careful distinction?