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Since You Asked

Since You Asked
Loving enemies
 
Q A few months ago, there was this group of people called the Westboro Baptist Church who held a protest at the funeral of a Catholic pastor who wasn't the pastor of my parish but I knew well. I saw them holding up signs with hateful messages such as "priests rape boys" and "your pastor is a whore". I found out that they believe that God hates the world as opposed to offering everyone unconditional love. I am so furious with these people for what they did, and that is putting it lightly... I just want to kick them all in the face. I know that I have a reason to be angry, but Jesus said that we should love our enemies as ourselves. Since the funeral, I am unable to feel nothing but wrath for these people, and it would seem impossible to show compassion for them as I should. Is there any way I can forgive these people and get on with my life?
 
A

Wow, what a situation! What a test of God's message of unconditional love! You are really being tempted to return violence for violence, but I assure you it won't help. Don't do it! You will just be reinforcing their suspicions about Catholics, which are far from positive.

These folks need the example of your goodness, your faith and your loving forgiveness--but I would do it from afar. I would make the choice to put them on your prayer list and pray for them every day. You don't have to "feel" warmly or kindly toward them. You just have to keep your opinions to yourself and wish them well. I would stay far from their bad news--and time will help to ease your anger and ill will.

- Carol Ann