To the editor:

You will likely receive many letters about Josh Ray's article in the Oct. 11 issue of The Chart. Though I rarely write letters to the editor, I must respond to this article. We live in a country where we cherish free speech. Mr. Ray has a right to his opinions, but all opinions are not equally valid. Not all ideas are worth publishing.

I do not know why Mr. Ray wrote this piece. Admittedly, he is correct to criticize the abhorrent behavior of some professing Christians. I also censure those who support racism while at the same time professing to be Christians. His argument, which censures all Christians (and Christianity) because of the objectionable attitude and behavior of some, makes as much sense as the attitude of Sept. 11 Patriots who would eliminate all Arab Moslems because of the fanaticism of some, precursor of the attacks against the Twin Towers and the Pentagon.

Does Mr. Ray really believe that for centuries Christianity has been the "focal point of mass murders, massacres, genocides, and the wiping out of centuries-old cultures, all in the name of God?" If so, he should read more world history and anthropology. The international mission will give him that opportunity. He openly criticized the Bible, which has better attestation than many widely accepted ancient works, such as the works of Plato, Herodotus and Aristotle. Mr. Ray strikes me as one who wishes not to be confused by facts -- his mind is already made up. Christians do not have to "check their minds at the door." For Josh, Christianity is for the feebleminded who just don't get it, no more than a "waste of time and fun."

Missouri Southern has had some excellent student journalists. I hope to see greater editorial discretion in coming weeks.

The 300-word limit puts the respondent at a disadvantage. Josh used 685 words in his tirade. My letter is within the 300-word limit, but I feel frustrated, knowing that I could have written a more cogent response, had I not been limited. Thanks.

David G. Fish