A virtual hoard of the shiny things I find on the internet.

 

In light of this belief, the purpose of social influence for Christians is not to favor their own faith; it is to serve a view of universal rights and dignity taught by their faith. It is not to advance their own creed; it is to apply that creed in pursuit of the common good. This is what turns religion into a positive social force — a determination to defend everyone’s dignity.

Michael Gerson - In mosque controversies, some Christians undermine their own faith

There were a lot of chunks of this column I wanted to quote, but this one in particular is my favorite. Read the whole thing, as they say.