Baldwinsville — To the editor:
I was heartened to see that you placed the article “Word of Life faces threats” on the front page of the Messenger (Oct. 21).
I was shocked to learn that some would accuse the Word of Life Church in B’ville of being guilty of anything because of assumed associations with a so-called church in another city.
Certainly the tragic fanaticism we have learned about is almost beyond belief in our culture. It reminds us of the persecution that is now going on in other parts of the world in the name of religion.
To assume that the church in B’ville would be guilty of such atrocities because it shares a name with another church is like saying everyone with the name “Bob” is a thief because a man by that name robbed a gas station once. There are many churches with similar names. How many St. Peters or St. Marys are there? I am sure there are many Temple Baptist Churches around the land. The Word of Life Church of B’ville is not in the same denomination as the other church, but if it was, it still would not prove anything, since this fanatical behavior certainly would not be sanctioned by their denomination. I know this for a fact. There are rotten apples in every barrel.
I have never attended the Word of Life Church in B’ville. I do not know the pastor, secretary or staff of that church. I do know of the reputation of the church. It is known for its teaching of decency, good citizenship and Christian principles. I have heard by many reports that this church has a great deal of investment in the youth of our community. Certainly, if there is ever a time when our youth need guidance, it is today.
continued — Proverbs, the book of wisdom, largely written by King Solomon, said, “Seest thou a man that is hasty in his words? There is more hope of a fool than of him.”
Surely, we have all said things in haste we would like to retract, but let us remember that it is best to get the facts before we begin terrorizing someone with our words and threats.
I wonder if those who were so quick to judge the Word of Life Church of B’ville will be as quick to ask forgiveness of this church secretary, the pastor, the staff and members of this church that are doing so much for many of the people of our community.
Let’s not tear down that which is good in our community by our hasty words. God knows we need every positive influence possible in these confusing days.
Dr. Bruce A. Craig
Temple Baptist Church
Baldwinsville
