Great idea.

Funny thing, most of us as Catholics profess the exact same Creed after the homily on Sundays, but you wouldn't know it stepping around several Catholic blogs. A person would think that some of the posts and comments came from people of different religions.
John B. | Homepage | 01.25.05 - 8:13 pm | #

Hi John -- It's true that some progressive Catholics are theologically progressive, meaning that they are somewhat heterodox in their beliefs. Myself, I am completely orthodox -- there's nothing in the Nicene Creed that I would possibly disagree with. My disagreements with the magisterium tend to be over moral and social issues, but not theological issues. I consider those issues inviolate and would be right there with conservatives defending them.

Julie -- Thanks for your comments. I've always enjoyed your blog and actually find myself agreeing with much of what you write here. Some examples: the excerpt from Barbara Nicolosi on the Culture of Death and your comments on St. Francis de Sales. You also watch the Amazing Race, which makes you okay in my book.
Nathan | Homepage | 01.25.05 - 11:38 pm | #

Nathan, thanks! It's that middle ground that makes it all work out, right?

No doubt I'll be swinging by your place though I rarely see any Amazing Race updates there.
Julie D. | Homepage | 01.25.05 - 11:44 pm | #

Very good points. Balkanization is a tendency we must all resist, in our Church, in our parishes, and in the blogosphere.

Kudos for Nathan in making this point and for always being eloquent and passionate in his wrestling with various issues. (I got a kick out of his remark "I change opinions like most people change socks"

God bless!

PS Very interesting that last night's leg of the Amazing Race was in Sri Lanka. Good lessons: read carefully and never give up!
penitens | Homepage | 01.26.05 - 6:54 am | #

I know what you mean about your girls. Sometimes I'll hear mine parroting my (or my Beloved's) views and I have to force myself to stop them: Do you know why Mum and Dad believe that? Do you know what the other side says? Guess you'd better find out to make sure you know what you're supporting/fighting. Who knows, you might agree with the other side!!

It drives them crazy -- they're so used to us being always right. LOL

"The little joys of motherhood are beyond number."
Talmida | Homepage | 01.26.05 - 9:53 am | #

It's that forcing yourself to give the other side a chance ... what a killer but good for all of us! No wonder I like you, we agree on so many basics of living ... we just can't talk about religion or politics!
Julie D. | Homepage | 01.26.05 - 10:09 am | #

I have to admit that I rarely venture over to read viewpoints too much different from mine, not because I'm not interested or open, but because the time I spend online is usually my recreation/free time and I savor every moment of it. I tend to get stressed out over debating that goes on around the net, so I tend to just take joy in the people who feel close to home.

That being said, when I do venture over, I really do appreciate blogs or message boards where debates are polite, respectful, and are truly there to exchange ideas and to discuss, rather than everyone just yelling at each other trying to prove their point and be right. So, kudos to Nathan.
Philothea Rose | Homepage | 01.26.05 - 10:52 am | #