Religious Right Leaders Consider That America Is Weary Of Their Hate

The best news I've read all week... In a news report about Republican presidential hopefuls pandering to Conservative Christians, it was suggested that the religious right's nutball social doctrine has lost much of its mojo—a la the fear tactics used in the Reagan, Bush and McCain campaigns—as Americans focus squarely on fiscal matters and the floundering economy.

The story notes, "The religious right's place is less certain now. [Faith and Freedom Coalition head Ralph Reed] is among those trying to strengthen it by tying it more tightly to economic issues, which traditionally took a back seat to abortion, prayer in school, gay rights and other issues for a large segment of conservative voters."

Here's the quote that got my motor running, and fostered a great big grin...

Following the 2007 death of Christian leader Jerry Falwell, some churches and ministers have de-emphasized partisan politics.

Well, it's about damn time, huh? Now let's review some of the more memorable hate-filled quotes that Falwell spewed from the guise of his religious pulpit in my hometown of Lynchburg, Va., shall we?

"AIDS is not just God's punishment for homosexuals; it is God's punishment for the society that tolerates homosexuals."

"The idea that religion and politics don't mix was invented by the Devil to keep Christians from running their own country." 

Regarding 9/11: "The pagans & abortionists & feminists & the gays & lesbians who are actively trying to make that an alternative lifestyle, the ACLU, People For the American Way, all of them who have tried to secularize America. I point the finger in their face and say, 'You helped this happen.' "

"[Homosexuals are] brute beasts, part of a vile satanic system [that] will be utterly annihilated, & there will be a celebration in heaven."

The purple Teletubby:  “He is purple, the gay-pride color, and his antenna is shaped like a triangle, the gay-pride symbol.” 

I'm certain jolly Jerry is R.I.P. exactly where he ought to be. I sure hope he has a fan down there.