Taking offence
My complaint is about routine intemperate and inflammatory attacks on the expression of mainstream Christian beliefs.
Mr Barbour’s response to this issue is to claim that Christian beliefs are themselves “manifestly vilifying and offensive”, even when expressed “moderately and carefully”, and that this will inevitably lead to emotive responses.
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Hide AdMr Barbour must explain what exactly it is in the Christian faith, with its universal offer of grace, forgiveness and acceptance, that amounts to “vilification”, but stirred emotions are not an excuse for insults and personal attacks.
There are plenty of issues that make my blood boil, but I try not to sink to abuse and name calling in response.
With regard to homosexual “marriage”, Ellis Thorpe exhorted us to “extol the value of toleration” (Letters, same day).
Let’s hope this “toleration” extends to those who oppose it – there are indications that it won’t.
Richard Lucas
Broomyknowe
Edinburgh