In Theory

Driving to Thanksgiving dinner, we saw a license plate that asked “WHY HATE”. At dinner, an adult said, “I hate it when God is left out of Thanksgiving!” A child responded, “Auntie, ‘hate’ is a very strong word.”

Hate, “extreme dislike,” seems to always have existed among human beings and religion has always elicited intense emotions. Our country is so culturally divided and so polarized that we define ourselves against those who are not like we are, and those of another religion are an easy target.

I agree with Joe Solmonese, head of Human Rights Campaign: “When we don’t know each other as human beings, ignorance breeds misunderstanding, which breeds hate, which too often this year led to violence. We have to keep fighting prejudices and stereotypes that underlie these acts.”

“Hate” is a very serious problem for each of us to confront, perhaps by getting to know well someone very different from our self.

(The Very Rev’d Canon) Peter D. Haynes

Saint Michael & All Angels Episcopal Church

Corona del Mar

It is a serious concern when religious bigotry becomes so consuming that it leads to acts of physical violence. There are individuals and organizations whose very existence has as its goal the denigration a particular faith community. When one dwells upon negative thoughts long enough, the tendency to act out on those thoughts is significantly increased.

What needs to happen is for the hearts of people to change. The more we associate with people of faiths other than our own, the more we learn that most faiths teach the basic principles of “goodness.” We can differ in our doctrines and beliefs, and still work together to positively touch the lives of the people with whom we live.

When our thinking changes from antipathy and hostility to understanding and respecting, acting out in ways that cause pain can be reduced. The Newport Mesa Irvine Interfaith Council is one organization in our area that can help to promote this deeper respect.

Tom Thorkelson

Director of Interfaith Relations

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

It is obviously quite disturbing to read of the overall increase in hate-related crimes. It shows that at least people are becoming less tolerant of views different from their own. When this lack of tolerance or lack of openness to at least allowing others to express their religious beliefs leads to violence, there is indeed cause for concern. Now that this has been brought to my attention, I will pray for peace and encourage my parishioners to do the same.

Fr. Stephen Doktorczyk

St. Joachim Church

Costa Mesa