In Reply to: I beg to differ posted by Q II on October 06, 2006 at 19:38:49:
"I told my neighbour that they were developing a cult"
I think from our past experience we are more sensitive (in a good way) to the dangers of fanaticism and see the "red flags" going up. I don't pretend that ALL churches are "nice" and there are dangers that they can fall into the same trap as the Family, full of self importance, condemning anyone who is not in line with their patterns of thinking what is right.
So it's good you can see it, and perhaps latter your neighbour will remember your warning.
Be that as it may, I feel it's hard not squirm and be uncomfortable with your continued use of the word "little" in references to my beliefs. I don't believe it's because I feel insecure, but rather "how can I continue to feel happy in my conversation with you, when you are obviously so condescending in your attitude with one who has found peace and happiness?". By using the term little, you add scorn to your statement which seems totally contradictory "I do not (be?)little people who belong to little churches and are satisfied with their little horizons " So on one had you say you are not belittling, but in the same statement your use of "little" totally belies this.
The church I'm with is a Lutheran one, very traditional, but in fact there are many differing branches, and if I ever felt that it was following down a path I didn't agree with, then I would not hesitate to leave and find a new church. I am not bound to follow blindly and loyally as I was in the past.