I would like to respond to the critics of my letter regarding the “Pluralism Sunday” article.

To Linda Osborne: For the past 10 years my avocation has been the study of different religions, so I agree with you that one can appreciate the strength and beauty of other religions. But one can value other religions without publicly implying their own faith is inferior.

To Kim Bartman: I ask you to please read my letter again. I never said a word against pluralism nor even implied I was against it, which I’m not. Regarding your statements about Fred Phelps: I understand the point you’re trying to make, but he is not representative of Christianity, and has been publicly condemned by Christians.

It is not a person’s superiority complex that causes oppression and hateful actions; rather it is his feelings of inferiority. He puts down others in order to feel superior.

I disagree with you on another point. All beliefs and practices are not valid, regardless of whether or not they’re interpreted in their own culture. Some are and some are downright evil.

To Ann Schweers: You said that I missed the point because I think religion should be about who is the best. I never said that. Instead, I raised the question why would anyone choose a faith they didn’t believe was the best? The answer is they wouldn’t. As for the Golden Rule, you cannot love others as yourself unless you first love yourself.

To Beth Dyer: the world is not in danger of Christian arrogance. Instead Christianity is in danger from the intolerance of others. When Christians devalue their religion, even if it’s unintentional, they feed that intolerance.