Ask a Catholic

[Randy Carson]

I wouldn't have a problem with that because it is useful to understand the arguments of the people you are trying to persuade.

Candidly, the LACK of references to books, articles and so forth has been one of the biggest surprises (and disappointments) of this forum. You are the first person that I can recall actually referencing a book since I joined three weeks ago. I'm used to discussions where people back up what they are saying with links, and quotes with sources, etc.

Perhaps you would be willing to read The God-less Delusion by Patrick Madrid? And there are other responses to Dawkins which may be even better than that one.

And for a good refresher on the Christian basics, I would suggest Luke and Acts...you can read them in a couple of evenings.

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The accidents of the bread remain.

It seems we're both surprised.  Most christians react as if their eyes would melt just looking at such books.  And likewise, I would not hesitate to read the 'The God-less delusion'.  If I find it for a good price on ebay, I may pick it up.  It will rest in the religion section of my library.  

It is refreshing to speak with somebody who isn't scared of the other side's texts.    Though on the whole, the reactions seem to be as above.  Can you tell us why most christians refuse to take such a logical approach?

Because, sadly, some Christians are guilty of all the things you accuse them of. They're judgmental, ignorant of the strong apologetics that they need to interact with atheists, and threatened by the "new atheism" which has an "in-your-face" aspect that turns a lot of people off.

You think its offensive that the 10 Commandments are posted in a courthouse or a classroom. We think it's offensive that a judge requires it to be removed (after xx number of years). You object to Nativity scenes and prayer before football games. We object to having our traditions taken away from us. You think it's unfair that you're being discriminated against but Christians don't want a court to order them to bake a cake or deliver flowers to a gay wedding because they consider gay marriage to be an offense to God. 

So, I know who Dawkins and Hitchens are. And while I've not read their books (I'm buried as it is) I've watched some online debates and listened to their arguments directly from their own mouths. 

I'm an amateur apologist...which might have all the crowd appeal of being a rock hound or an amateur astronomer when chatting at a cocktail party. But it's what I think God has called me to do, so I try to do the best I can, and reading good articles and books is essential.

BTW-I've only recently turned my attention to atheism after a decade or so of "Catholic" apologetics. "Christian" apologetics requires an entirely different approach and set of arguments, and the last three weeks here have been enormously educational. I'm learning and making course corrections quickly, and I hope to be able to provide you and your fellow forum mates a better challenge as I do.

So, perhaps The God Delusion would be a good read...I'll consider that after I've watched a couple of his debates on YouTube.

Thanks!