Source: Lompoc Record
http://www.lompocrecord.com/articles/2006/01/29/opinions/012906b.txt
On January 29, 2006 the Lompoc Record ran an opinion piece by Dr. Bob Cornwall, pastor of First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Lompoc. "Religion is a universal attribute of human existence. Officially, atheistic nations haven't rooted it out, nor have economic, scientific, or educational advances diminished its presence. Religions may resist modernity and they may adapt to it, but they persist because they seem to give meaning and purpose to life, especially in times of crisis and uncertainty... We have received the gift of life from God (however we understand God). If we are true to this gift, then we must share it with others. We may not, nor should we, give up our distinctive beliefs, but it is important that we make every effort to understand and respect the beliefs and practices of our neighbors. Because they are different does not make them evil nor does it make them inherently good. Hopefully our conversations will bring out the best in all of us. Though living together in peace with all of our particularities may be difficult, it isn't impossible. As we consider this religion-filled world of ours, may we remember that true religion is not about the self, but is instead about serving the other. If we remember this, we can learn to live together in peace, and we will find a way to heal a broken world together."