Letters to the Editor, Part 3

 

Christian Soldiers
After reading several of the letters to the editor about the feature story on ROTC at Xavier, I felt compelled to say my piece on the subject. First of all, the sentiments that were expressed were very one-sided and based on little knowledge. It seems as though people cannot make the connection between being a soldier and being a Christian. Xavier goes to great lengths to convince its students to accept far-left stances on many issues, the military is exactly such an issue. At Xavier, the military is presented in a very negative manner by many professors, specifically within the theology department. I am both a Christian and a soldier. I am firm in my beliefs and I will never become a conscientious objector. I read my Bible and understand the lessons it contains. My faith is at the heart of my existence.

However, what I don't buy into is all of the "theory" out there that serves only to condemn and ridicule the military. Based on my classes here, the only perspective I have been taught is that the military is an instrument of evil. Personally, I find this stance both ludicrous and weak. The problem stems from people not knowing anything about what they are taking a stance on. To top it all off, the basis of their arguments come from human sources or from inventing doctrine on small sections of Scripture.

ROTC is a big part of life at Xavier. Cadets represent one of the largest groups of students at the school. Why shouldn't a "pro-military" appear in this magazine? ROTC students are not the majority on campus, but we still have the right to be heard. People do not have to agree with us on all subjects, however, they do owe us the chance to present our beliefs and to be taken seriously. Not every story has to focus on Catholic social teaching as some people seem to desire. This approach would be similiar to a state-controlled media source. I applaud the magazine for having the courage to write and publish the story.
—Matt Raymond