Ask a Catholic

[Whateverist]

I have a serious question for you Randy.  What are you here for and how is that working out for you?

I came to learn more about atheism. I've been doing Catholic apologetics for 10 years or so. I thought it might be interesting to broaden my skills to Christian apologetics. Islam and Atheism are two areas of concern that I, as a Christian, have about the future of the world. So, I decided to chat with you folks.

And I must say, it's been a far different experience than I expected. Atheists are often depicted in the media as being the really smart people, the brainy science types, and the books and articles that I have read were based upon really complex philosophical arguments. 

So, to find that this site is mostly about venting anger and sophomoric humor has been a bit of an eye-opener...but that, too, has been educational.

Some take it more seriously than others. Not me. I have no dog in your fight. I'd describe this as first and foremost a social site. I'm interested in talking with theists who are willing to explore fundamental questions in sincere and honest way. Your emphasis on blind acceptance of doctrine and shameless advocacy leaves you out. You don't impress me because you risk nothing.

For example, until a few days ago, I didn't really understand the depths of the 'myther' lunacy, but now I know that group is really a fringe of atheism...not taken terribly seriously by more educated atheists.

What's funny is that you think there is a vanguard of atheism. I suppose when you've given up your authenticity to shill for god you just naturally assume everyone has similarly sold out for a cause. But atheism just isn't a cause for all of us. I'm not looking to end religion and uninterested in impressing those who wish to.

I'm also learning that a lot of atheists have emotional reasons for rejecting God. They were hurt as children, hurt in an abusive marriage, etc. These folks are just pissed off...and it's not terribly conducive to logical discourse when the other side is blinded by anger. I'm not saying I don't blame them, btw, but I think the anger is misplaced...and definitely misdirected at me.

It isn't so hard to understand why they point it at you. You are like the people in their lives who were willing to do anything to coerce their belief. There is a basic lack of respect in any act of coercion which you of course think is justified by what you think is at stake. Once your kid decides what you think is absurd, all that remains is the taste of your disrespect.

I think the other big category of atheists is the "volitional" atheists...the ones who simply don't WANT to acknowledge God - as God. They may be living with their boyfriend/girlfriend or using contraception or deeply addicted to pornography, etc. To admit that there is a holy God who expects all of us to be Holy (and makes it possible) requires giving up these pleasures. There's more to that, but the bottom line is that everybody wants to sit upon the throne of their own life...but there is another king to whom we owe fealty.

Why would anyone need to avoid acknowledging yours or any other god in order to do as they like? Just seems like a weird idea.

Finally, yes, there are intellectual objections to Christianity. Real ones that cannot be dismissed or taken lightly. This just doesn't seem to be the place where those issues are aired. Christianity is not being taken seriously enough here for that to happen.

If it hasn't been taken seriously it is because no compelling reason has been given to do so. You seem to think serious consideration is your due. But it just isn't. If you weren't so thoroughly indoctrinated you'd realize what an extraordinary claim your gods really are.

So, I'm enjoying the discussions, learning a lot, and trying to provide Catholic Answers as best I can. Hopefully, you're benefiting in some way, too.

Peace.

I have no respect for the authority of institutions, but I have lots of respect for my fellow man. I would never wish to coerce anyone's beliefs as I grant them the status of peer - by default. You really don't have to worry about atheists seeking to extinguish religion. Life is too short.

[nihilistcat]

Finally, yes, there are intellectual objections to Christianity. Real ones that cannot be dismissed or taken lightly. This just doesn't seem to be the place where those issues are aired. Christianity is not being taken seriously enough here for that to happen.

Speaking for myself, when I was a less mature atheist, I was eager to have these type of debates. But at this point, as a more seasoned atheist, debating with religionists is just too damn boring. So for critique of religion I refer you to George Carlin, as to what should replace religion, I refer you to John Lennon

[Cyberman]

The day I take xtianity seriously is the day I get my first period.

[ignoramus]

Stim, not all young females are stupid.

[Longhorn]

It's sorta hard to take zombie rabbis seriously.....unless we're in Walking Dead, then holy shit zambies

[robvalue]

Many have gone this route before, so I should point out that getting banned on an atheist forum should not be considered a badge of honour. It should be thought of as an inability to follow sensible rules, usually as a result of frustration at having failed to convince anyone of anything. You haven't brought any arguments we haven't heard hundreds of time before.

It does prove one thing though which is a common theme on this forum, mod>God. Yes, that is a direct claim I am making. God has no power whatsoever on this forum. He is welcome to come falsify my ass anytime he likes, but I'm sure he has a whole list of excuses ready as to why he allows his loyal followers to be banned while wanking off to "torture monthly" magazine. If he magically unbans someone and then the mods are unable to re-ban them, then that would be a start, huh?

We did have a few minor connection issues a few days ago. Was that the wrath of God I wonder? Yikes! He be slippin.

[ignoramus]

Rob, there's a very small chance that he's reading this and smiling and rubbing his hands together!
He's got something special install for you, when he's ready but!
it's gonna hurt real good! for velly velly long time!

(EDIT: did I just make god sound Vietnamese?)

[LastPoet]

[robvalue]

Rob, there's a very small chance that he's reading this and smiling and rubbing his hands together!
He's got something special install for you, when he's ready but!
it's gonna hurt real good! for velly velly long time!

(EDIT: did I just make god sound Vietnamese?)

I just bet he is! Well, I love surprises. How about bringing something here and now God, you stupid buttmonkey? Why make yourself look like some sort of pyramid scheme scam with promises of riches and penalties no one will ever see? What do you need so much money for anyway? Weird God he is.

I'm going to feed the bunnies. If a ceiling tile fell on my head and killed me, how many people do you think would say, "See!"

[LastPoet]

Women may not be ordained as priests. This isn't a matter of discipline which the Church can change. Jesus did not ordain women. Neither can we.

The Orthodox and the Catholics have this right; most Protestant denominations have erred on this point.

Women would be getting more sales for your organization. bad marketing, dude