www.ac4lt.org Harmonious Raspberry

Eliza Griswold's article is a somewhat chilling tale of how religion is being used to create strife in Nigeria. Of particular note is the mention of Anglican Archbishop Akinola who has been so vocal about the elevation of an openly gay bishop. It seems Akinola's hatred doesn't just extend to gay people. He is closely linked to the massacre of moslems within his own country. The Anglican's seem unlikely to expel him because of the fear of schism, yet what is worse? Akinola appears devoid of the values that Christianity claims to promote, yet he is an Archbishop. Draw your own conclusions.

Griswold's article is just another example of how we use religion as a mask to accumulate power and to promote intolerance. America is full of people like Akinola. The only question is will our thin veneer of civilization be enough to blunt their influence. On my more cynical days, I fear that it won't. Hatred and intolerance are too seductive. The difference between Nigeria and America is not as great as we would like to believe. With each sermon of hate we take a step closer.