Oh, what rash judgement! I had guessed his opening words correctly. But this fellow's request for “a moment” was not followed by an explanation as to why he thought our respective pecuniary positions called for a net transfer of assets in his direction. His was something much more serious. His question was simply: “What do you think of Richard Dawkins?”
What did I think? In truth, not a lot. I've not read any of Dawkins' works. Given my rate of reading I have worked out the maximum number of books I'll be able to read in this life, and all his books fall outside that number! I have had a glance at his website, though, and seen a few reviews others have made of his products. And none of this has served his cause. But Dawkins is popular. And there are many people in this part of the world who share his view that God is superfluous. The media constantly assume the agenda of secular atheists: religion is an out-moded human invention, merely causing repression and war. Life can be run much better without God, thank-you very much. “We don't do God” was the famous reply along this line from the PM's office some years ago.
Something strange is happening here. In all the history of mankind, atheism has only ever had any sort of popular following in the last couple of centuries. And even then, this outlook has been limited to a very restricted geographical part of the world.
These are the facts. But what about the causes? Is it affluence and comfort that make people feel secure whilst forgetting their Maker? Perhaps. But maybe more significant is the habit of reducing “truth” to that which can be verified with the senses of sight, touch, etc. This is a very partial view of truth: the truth of physics or chemistry. Surely reality is more than this? Where is love in this worldview? And beauty, or goodness?
In Britain, religion has long be thought of as a private matter: fine, as long as you keep it to yourself and don't make it too public. With this attitude the ground for the rise of secular atheism has been prepared. And it easily gives rise too to the idea that religion is a bit irrational, a simple question of tastes and feelings. “I like the opera; you feel good going to church.” Thus the “Rationalist Society” rejects Christianity.
Christianity, however, claims to be eminently reasonable. Open to the full truth, to reality as it really is! Not living in the blinkered half-vision afforded by the “scientific” world of Dawkins and Co.. Christian faith asks us to open our eyes - and our whole selves - to the wonder of creation around us. Drink in the truth of this universe created by a God who loves us madly. Experience his love and share in the joy of responding to it.
Prof. Peter Singer, the utilitarian philosopher and champion of “animal rights” insists on valuing beings in such a way that the life of a healthy dog should be preferred over that of a sickly child. He is normally completely coherent and logical in applying his principles. When his mother became aged and infirm, his theories told him to finish her off. Fortunately he listened to his heart, though, and saw that she was well-cared for. Inconsistent? Yes. But this is truth prevailing over a more limited view!
Conclusion? Get real! Spend a few days away from the “limited view” of the office. Experience the truth of creation in the Pyrenees. Be reminded of your own limitations (in sports, at least!). Share the joys of life with others, seeking to serve them rather than use them. Join the LIONS 2008!
Or, if you really can't make it this year, then spend a great weekend with the family, trying with all your strength to make it the best weekend of the year for them - as it could be for us.
Fr Bernard