rather annoying, can't it? Abusing the population's superstitions and fears and whatnot. And for what? A few decades of power? *Phpppt* No wonder God himself has declared war on religion!
The only reason we're a religion at all is to keep ourselves organized. We only have three or four 'doctrines' (things that are unchangeable) and no dogma. That's why we appear to flip-flop at times. or a while we did not even call ourselves a religion - one of the more often referenced books by our publishers is, in fact, called "Religion is a Snare and a Racket". =) We're constantly being reminded of the danger of falling into that trap of "All religions are relics of the <insert Church name> attempting to control the population by manipulation of belief and threats of divine retribution." thing. I've seen many attempts to use those fears to control the behavior of a congregation. Those that do so are unceremoniously removed; we're rather paranoid of ever going the rout of of the old churches and their "holy wars" and oppression.
So, keep it up. If we've got it right, religion - all religion - will soon fall and the oppressive grip of the ecclesiastical elite will end. And, yes, most do view us that way... No apologies necessary. Thanks for the clarification.
Now... on to another topic. =) |
