Sometimes I Can't Blame Atheists for Laughing

Buona sera. Every once in a while, I talk about equivocation. It is a way of blurring the meanings of words by assigning definitions. For instance, microevolution is true. It is variations within species but not breaking away from the limits imposed by genetic information. Macroevolution is not true, "goo to you" changes lead to entirely new creatures. When someone says, "Evolution is observed all the time", sure, but only on the small scale. To try to convince you that evolution happens on a large scale because it is observed on a small scale is an example of equivocation.

Atheists tend to use equivocation regarding Christianity. Is it their fault? In some ways yes, and in some ways no.

Let me walk you through the steps.

The Bible is supposed to be the foundation for Christian faith and practice. The Catholic church uses the Bible to some extent, but also mixes in traditions, rituals, man-made rules &c. In addition, the Catholic church is the oldest and most populous of religions going under the name "Christian".

When an atheist, skeptic or other unbeliever sees someone in the Roman Catholic belief system practicing his or her religion, this unbeliever may think that such practice is common to all who claim to be Christians; this is where the equivocation occurs.

Catholics are not typical representatives of Christendom. In fact, since there are about a billion people who call themselves Catholic, there are unique practices in various countries, cities, churches and individuals. I said before that unbelievers are not entirely at fault for equivocating activities under the guise of Roman Catholicism as representative of all Christianity. That is because of the size and age of the religion; they can't help but do some equivocation. And yet, they are at fault if they continue to assume that all Christians believe and practice like that oddball Catholic that lives down the street; do a little research and engage in some scientific method and see that all Christians are not the same.

Sometimes, people have beliefs that I honestly wonder would be embarrassing to the Vatican. I say this because some of the things I come across are not only completely un-Biblical, but seem more like pagan superstitions or wishful thinking.

So, if Arnie Atheist received the following in his e-mail, he could erroneously but somewhat understandably be laughing at Bible-believing Christians:

Father Ignacio is the healing priest of the Rosary. He is excellent and truly cures. He has performed many miracles of healing. This is a novena of Father Ignacio that he began the 10th of January 2005, and still has not been broken.

When you receive it, pray a Hail Mary and ask for a special favor. You will see what will happen the 4th day of having received this.

"[Redacted]"

(Ask for your favor)

Please do not break this novena. Send it to 6 persons (or as many as you know believe in the power of prayer) that you believe deserve justice, peace, love, health, prosperity, and well being.

No wonder some of you laugh. Just remember, many of us who call ourselves Christians are more interested in following the teachings of the Bible, and not strange, pseudo-Catholic e-mails.