Unfortunately I've been quite busy today so it has taken me some time to get to this thread. I thought about locking it earlier but everyone seemed to be handling it ok but it's taken a dip I'm afraid, much like the election and Brexit ones did.
So as it's now the start of the season, I'll be stronger on these. Political rants etc won't be allowed now. There are better places to voice those opinions. I think some need to find an outlet away from here.
I was going to clean it up but I reckon the start of the season is a good finishing point.
That said I feel the need to correct a few things before we close it.
IF opinions are based on his interpretations of what it means to be a Christian. That is not the same as Christianity preaching what he does personally.
As an example, it doesn't actually say that homosexuals will go to hell. It actually says they won't inherit the kingdom of God. The concept of Hell wasn't even mentioned. And when it was actually mentioned it was translated from the original Greek which refers to Tartarus derived from Greek mythology. I think most people have ditched the idea of Olympus and the gods now so that is a bit vague.
I'd also add that the same sections of the bible that discuss homosexuality, also say you won't "go to heaven" (to paraphrase) if you are self abusing. I'm assuming IF is picking and choosing the passages he likes there...........otherwise I reckon his hell is going to be really busy.
For me IF is speaking his own beliefs and that is it. Not christian beliefs. So no need to link them together or abuse other people who are Christian because of what he says.
The Pope has been recently quoted as saying "If a person is gay and seeks God and has good will, who am I to judge?" Wise words I say, and about time.
For me IF's views are wrong and preach hate. That should be challenged as much as possible.
I'd also add: for the comment about Straight people not coming to Belle Vue on Pride day by GiantScorpio. I think we are pretty safe. I was at Pride in Leeds this year. I was wearing a rainbow cowboy hat. I represented my company and walked and danced all the way around Leeds. It makes no difference that I don't find men the least bit attractive. The most significant thing that amazed me about the day was that every street was packed.....hundreds deep. In fact there were over 60,000 people there for the parade. I'm thinking they weren't all gay.
So I reckon we are ok with the likes of GiantScorpio not attending when so many people are supportive of an event that simply celebrates diversity and the freedom to be who you are.
If we do something on Catalan day, I hope we are bright with colour but leave it at that. We are there to watch rugby and IF should not spoil that just because he is a few thousand years behind most people in his beliefs.
