First off, let me state, for the record, that I have no qualms with other religions. Even as a Pagan, I have actively participated in a variety of ceremonies, from Jewish weddings to Catholic communions (though I did not take communion). In my eyes, all paths to the Divine are valid, hence, participating in another's ceremony is merely exposure to another Way.
Nor do I have a problem with others being of religions other than my own. Again, I believe all paths are valid for their followers. This diversity adds enjoyable variety to life. To me, not only is proselytizing proscribed, but it also seems silly. If someone comes to me seeking information on my path, I will gladly tell them, but I will not hunt them out.
I even understand the desire to convert others. After all, if you truly believe and are excited about your faith, it makes sense to want to share it with other people, especially the people you care about. There's something very comforting about surrounding yourself with others who share your viewpoints; it's a way of reaffirming that you're not nuts.
I've even had several people try to convert me. I had no problem with that, so long as they are polite about it. Some of the experiences were actually very pleasant. I chatted with two Mormon ladies for close to half an hour, discussing our religions. And I always accepted the tracts that were handed out on campus, simply to see what they had to say. Most of them sit next to the two Bibles on my bookcase.
My problem is with people who are rude or disrespectful. This does not apply to just Christianity; I dislike Pagans who are rude just as much. There is no need to bash someone for their faith; after all, there is always the possibility that they might be the one who is right. There is no need to force anything on anyone, including religion; if someone says that they are not interested, believe them. Some people are quite comfortable where they are, and very little you can do will be able to change that.
A good article to look at is Gwydion's article on How to Share the Gospel with Pagans. He discusses the traditional methods of witnessing to Pagans, and why they normaly meet such resistance.
In my mind, the first thing anyone should do before encountering another faith is to study it. Don't just look at what members of your own religion have said, see what they say about themselves. This will not only show you how they think and what they believe (which might dispel a few myths), but it will also show you what type of responses you'll be getting.
Return to the Sanctuary's Essays Page.