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Be careful of 'Compass'

 
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Dec 11, 2007 - 05:34:27 CST
By JULIE HESS/Jud
If people have not heard already, the new movie "The Golden Compass" is out in some theaters and still coming out in others. Its writer/director, Philip Pullman, is an atheist who is trying to entice our children into seeing the movie. He also has a series of books, including 'The Subtle Knife," "The Golden Compass," "His Dark Materials" and "The Amber Spyglass," in which there is a war in heaven and God is killed off so people can do as they please.

Parents should be outraged and concerned at the trash that the world is trying to feed our children. One of the great dangers of these books is the seed of fear and mistrust of Christianity that they would put in the minds of children. They are written from an atheist's perspective.

People might be shocked when they find out that sponsors of the movie are Random House Children's Books and Sega, among others.

Children are this world's future leaders, and as parents, we have the responsibility and obligation of not only loving them but also knowing what they are reading and watching.
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Be careful of 'Compass'
Comments

Shirls wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:02 PM:

" To Oh, Another Christian Who Feels Threatened... (who wrote) " Oh, my, the forces of evil are indeed on the loose. Atheisim! Your source for all evil! But what atheist in the history of man began a war or genocide? Give me one example. One will do. " Here's 2. Perhaps not beginning, but continuing genocide are China's Hu-Jintao & N. Korea's Kim Jong II, living and killing today. Have a conversation with someone who escaped from there (N.K.) sometime if you have the chance. Check some international amnesty sites. They are Commanders in Chief of 1st and 4th largest militaries in the world. Do you think you could participate in a debate such as this in those nations? I don't agree with the writer of the article's perspective, but the hatred spewed by some here is unreal. "

BILL G-A-R-R wrote on Dec 19, 2007 11:40 AM:

" Online editor.... What a sniveling coward you are.Looks like we'll have to have a talk with your superiors. "

Online Editor wrote on Dec 19, 2007 11:11 AM:

" To Bill G-A-R-R: Please call me. Jason Lueder - 701-250-8291. If you don't feel comfortable talking with me - feel free to contact Ken Rogers, Managing Editor at 250-8250. Ken reads many of the comments as well. If you would like to talk to my supervisor, that is Editor John Irby his number is 250-8266. "

BILL G-A-R-R wrote on Dec 19, 2007 10:55 AM:

" Online editor.... What a sniveling coward you are.Looks like we'll have to have a talk with your superiors. "

Avid Reader wrote on Dec 19, 2007 10:52 AM:

" For those of you with an interest in learning, as I am, I went and did a little internet research on "In God We Trust" and "One Nation Under God". The earliest references I can find for "In God We Trust a similiar phrase from The Start Spangled Banner" composed in 1814. The phrase "In God We Trust" was a shortened version created so it would fit on coins. For more info on this subject, I got my information from http://www.allabouthistory.org/in-god-we-trust.htm. I can find no history on the "One Nation Under God" phrase prior to 1953. According to the history Under God was added to the Pledge in the middle of the sensatioanist hysteria over the Communist threat to the US in the McCarthy Era. For more information visit: http://history.vineyard.net/pledge.htm. WHile I don't claim that this is the factual history, the sites and information I post are the earliest dates I can find for these phrases. If anyone has more info, I would like to read about it, so please post links to the info.. "

Avid Reader wrote on Dec 19, 2007 7:43 AM:

" Please enlighten all of us Seven Gone, and give us the particulars on when and where these phrases orignated? I, as an "Avid Reader" would love to go and learn more. Again, I did nothing but post what Mr. Adams signed, as leader of our country, in a government document, which by the way was approved by the United States Senate before he signed it. You use a fundamentalist's favorite practice, claiming facts not in evidence. While I love a good debate, I perfer one with a well prepared opponent. End of debate. "

seven gone wrote on Dec 18, 2007 11:50 PM:

" you too avid reader, and you don't read my post either. i just referred to the phraseology not the coins... do you see me noting specifically coins??.....if you bother to actually look at some of the notations of the founding fathers you'd see that for the doublespeak. comments as those date back to the beginnings of the country and the constitution. like i said earlier, some see only what they want to see.... and know even less about what they speak - it was you , not me who raised the whole issue of mr adams and reading YOUR version of what his intentions were into record. not me. "

Avid Reader wrote on Dec 18, 2007 11:17 PM:

" Since "in God We Trust didn't appear on coins until 1863 and paper money in 1953 and the phrase "one nation" didn't include "under God" until 1954, your lack of knowledge of history is showing. Adams died in 1826. Perhaps if some of our founding fathers were still alive, we wouldn't have folks like you trying to tell the world what thier intentions were. Mr. Adams isn't necessarily my hero, but he was a founding father. Just in case you want to avail yourself of some knowledge the treaty I am quoting is the Treaty of Tripoli, 1796. You do however make a point Seven Gone, you make statements about things you know little about. "

seven gone wrote on Dec 18, 2007 9:32 PM:

" hey, thanks for that bit of constitutional enlightenment. i have no idea if it's true - it probably is, politicians are famous for their doublespeak. but maybe then you can clarify for us why your hero mr adams then didn't cancel certain pledges that invoke......"one nation under god", and "in god we trust". he must have missed that meeting. "

Lost wrote on Dec 18, 2007 7:56 PM:

" Wow, somebody lost? And can't find there compass. It can happen. Let it go. Another War of the Worlds. "

to julie wrote on Dec 18, 2007 7:27 PM:

" Just because you are insecure about the way you are raising your children to think that they will be affected by a movie, doesn't mean that you should be writing crap like this! I mean honestly if you think children are going to become devil worshipers over this movie you are highly mistaken. If you think it is wrong for children to question christianity, you must think it is wrong for them to THINK!! "

seven gone wrote on Dec 18, 2007 6:48 PM:

" to "bill g-a-r-r": fine, it isn't for me to stuff religious propaganda down your throat, i'll be the first to acknowledge that. i really don't care what or if you believe in anything at all. but as much as you expect us to leave you alone, kindly return the favor and don't thrust your anti - religion anti - establishment propaganda on us either. we get pretty tired of reading it too. "

Be Careful of Bible wrote on Dec 18, 2007 6:16 PM:

" If there is one book that has caused more hate, wars, and death than the Bible, please tell me what it is. The Bible was used to discriminate against blacks. People used the Bible to justify slavery. The Bible was the basis of the fight in Northern Ireland. The Bible was the basis for the Spanish Inquisition. Perhaps we should warn people about the dangers presented by people who literally believe the Bible. "

Dear Julie Hess wrote on Dec 18, 2007 4:46 PM:

" "One of the great dangers of these books is the seed of fear and mistrust of Christianity that they would put in the minds of children. " Um I think "Christians" themselves do enough to put fear and mistrust into our kids. Put your energy into something truly Christian like helping the poor (not judging them) instead of pointing fingers, like Christians like to do, at somebody who is doing something "wrong". Our children should be able to see true Christianity thru us yet I feel that many of us are missing the true point and it shows in todays society especially politics. Which side was Christain again? I do call myself a Christian so I guess that means i'm pro-life, but I include all life including Mexicans, gays, muslims, the poor ect. If Jesus's Christianity was taught the churches would be full and the misguided devisive line drawers would be thankful they have been accepted by loving people who love like Christ. "

ERH wrote on Dec 18, 2007 4:05 PM:

" I am so proud to read these comments. I truly did not believe that people that thought this way exsisted in ND. I've been so lonely and overshadowed by the oooh so popular fundamentalist to overrun our community. "

Joe Camel wrote on Dec 18, 2007 2:41 PM:

" To any Christian parents: I would speculate that much of the negative sentiment in this forum has been generated as a defensive reaction to over-bearing religious people. Do not be one of those types to your children, but instead trust that your children, by God's hand, will discover and believe the truths of this world. They'll learn of atheism eventually, like it or not, so when they're old enough to understand, you have to have a sit down chat just as you do when they're old enough to wonder about the birds and the bees. If you don't feel like you know enough to explain things, ask a pastor or a knowledgeable friend. Avoidance and censorship have never done anything besides provoking curiousity. "

MamaMia wrote on Dec 18, 2007 2:40 PM:

" If anyone wants to bring a goat, we need a female yearling. They just seem more tender and interestingly, taste a lot like bald eagle or whooping crane. Love the curry with it, too, Omar. What the heck, let's make it a potluck! Who wants to bring the eye of newt? Toe of frog? "

SNAP! wrote on Dec 18, 2007 2:33 PM:

" The statement; "Parents should be outraged and concerned at the trash that the world is trying to feed our children" is my same feeling regarding the world's magor religions. The nonsense and ignorance stuffed down their throats by ignorant sky worshipers and their nearly indestructable system (the church) is truly inexcusable. It makes life hard for the rest of us and keeps humanity firmly entrenched in mysticism.Of course, sometimes I hope it's true that Christian folks will one day be raptured off the planet. Maybe then we can all finally have some peace. I wouldn't mind being left behind by such a judgmental and unforgiving God and staying here with all my educated, heathen buddies. "

Hey MammaMia wrote on Dec 18, 2007 2:24 PM:

" I'll donate the goat - what age do you want? "

JB wrote on Dec 18, 2007 2:22 PM:

" Dodge and deflect, seven gone, dodge and deflect. That's what you do when you debate. I'll keep it simple for you and restate my belief from a prior post: [Jesus discovered the secret of life, here, and eternally. He and his followers tried to share it with the rest of the world. The local Roman authorities put him, and others, on the cross for it. He died for his discovery of the secret of life and for being articulate enough to share it with the world.] Do you agree, or disagree, with this statement? "

seven gone wrote on Dec 18, 2007 2:11 PM:

" to "avid reader": yes, i do agree with you - i don't think its for ms hess or for me or anyone else to tell you what to believe or do --- read the article again. she's not asking for a boycott, or a book/film burning -- she's only telling people to be aware. yeah, i'm in general agreement with her though- look around you, particularly with kids playing video games about ripping spines out of people or blowing their heads off for play, pre teens getting r rated movies and being exposed to all kinds of trash that impressionable minds can be imprinted with. perhaps you're stoic enough to watch reservoir dogs or some uber-trash violence / sex and not get inclined to go out and participate, but many in society fail to make that connection, and even go so far as to create video games where particpants can pretend to be the columbine shooters. that i see,she's only indicating for people to be aware, that all may not be what it seems with this item. as many people use videos or the tv to be a babysitter and don't care what their kids watch as long as they shut up and leave them alone, that can (and does in my opinion) create a problem. parents need be aware in general of the trash out there, whether it be movies, or pedophiles in the street --- so be aware and use discretion in parenting, with a movie as this. perhaps you do, many do not. i think her letter is applicable therefore to much more in society than just this movie. "

Avid Reader wrote on Dec 18, 2007 2:10 PM:

" Just a little bit of history for those of you who contend that the US was founded on Christian Religion: John Adams, who was instrumental in putting together the Constitution, stipulated in a 1796 treaty he signed as President that the United States Government "is not, in any sense, founded on the Christian religion." A point to ponder for all of us. "

JB wrote on Dec 18, 2007 2:03 PM:

" To Bill G-A-R-R & Avid Reader: Keep up the good fight. "

seven gone wrote on Dec 18, 2007 2:02 PM:

" to "j.b.": i don't know, i think it's up for you to clarify how your opinions differ from mine. from your earlier posting, tho you profess to being a christian you diverged to start criticizing me about things that are concrete and provable, factual if you will, and how i seemed to be missing the point. now you ask me how our opinions differ? i don't think any of us tracking all the way to the vatican has any "proof" of spirituality - as to which of any religion is the "right" choice, guess that's why they call it faith. some might say gullibility, but that's what i meant in my earlier statement that we'll find out individually when we're dead and gone who the joke ends up being on. the remarks about obama etc., are a reference to the anti-establishment left, to me at least plainly evident among the remarks here - see the comments of chavez in particular - about the religious right and its control and need to control everything. the leftists have it all correct of course, but as they criticize the religious right they need consider that their fearless leaders indulge in the same largesse as the bible thumpers as to attend church. "

Southpark wrote on Dec 18, 2007 1:19 PM:

" keep up the good fight Seven gone. "

MamaMia wrote on Dec 18, 2007 1:07 PM:

" Honest Omar: I would be honored to have you and your extended family at my place of worship for the sacrificing of the spring goat. You know the place. See you there. Midnight. Full Moon. Black Gold. Texas Tea. No, wait, that's something else entirely! "

Interesting wrote on Dec 18, 2007 1:00 PM:

" How can an athiest kill God? "

Avid Reader wrote on Dec 18, 2007 10:37 AM:

" To Seven Gone: You are right, people only see what they want to see. Case in point your reference to the "Be careful of". Ms Hess writes in her letter and I quote, "Parents should be outraged and concerned at the trash that the world is trying to feed our children. " I am a parent, and I don't find differing opinions or views as trash, and I am offend that Ms. Hess would even begin to think she has the insight to tell me what I "should" be. While I respect her right to believe and raise her children as she sees fit, she is not the authority on morality or child rearing. So please think before you make accustations about what others think or do. "

BILL G-A-R-R wrote on Dec 18, 2007 9:25 AM:

" My judgment is as sound as anyones. Religion, yours in particular, has caused more death and destruction throughout the ages then anything. Try thinking out side the box for just a moment. Do you really believe there is a man/woman up in the clouds keeping track of us? If there is, he is a very cruel man/woman, one i would not worship, offer up young boys to, or give money to. Like I've said before worship in private, don't try and govern me. Keep your creepy invisible pagan idol out of the public realm. IT"S A DEMOCRACY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "

Hethen wrote on Dec 18, 2007 8:50 AM:

" It still amazes me how outraged people get when something does not meet with their religous approval. America went on and on about the radical Islamic people who wanted Salmon Rushdie dead for writing what the deemed heresy. When american people do milder versions of the same thing, it is considered patriotic. If you don't like the movie don't see it. I personally tend to think that if my children are raised properly, then a movie will simply be entertaining and not be the defining moment of their religous beliefs. I think people should be more concerned with the violence in video games if they such feeble minded children. "

JB wrote on Dec 18, 2007 12:26 AM:

" To Seven Gone: The Bismarck Tribune's guidelines about taste, tone and language would try the patience of Job when it comes to you. You immediately launch into a diatribe about George Carlin, MoveOn.org and Barack Obama? What is your deal? What is it that you believe that I don't believe, and vice-versa? Jesus discovered the secret of life, here, and eternally. He and his followers tried to share it with the rest of the world. The local Roman authorities put him, and others, on the cross for it. He died for his discovery of the secret of life and for being articulate enough to share it with the world. Praytell, seven gone, possessed of thine own "impeccable logic", where do we disagree? "

seven gone wrote on Dec 17, 2007 9:41 PM:

" to "bill G-A-R-R": that you had an unfortunate experience with religion is truly regrettable --- but i think your arguments and sarcasm are just a bit misdirected in this topic --- to deny any spirituality because of a bad experience with religion is truly throwing the baby out with the bath water. that i see, your gripe is with some of the people within religion, not with religion or spirituality itself and i like the comments of "dante" about the fan club that's the problem. any discipline within society composed of humans will have its weaknesses and its crooks - you see them every day - doctors, nurses, lawyers, preachers, teachers, soldiers, politicians, etc. just because my grade 8 teacher was mean and a cow does that mean that none of us should go to school? or value an education? of course not. your experience was regrettable. unfortunately, so is your logic. "

seven gone wrote on Dec 17, 2007 9:02 PM:

" to "jb": i do suppose that depends on what you construe to be "factual"; even modern science is mostly supposition; look at medicine, so much understanding about disease yet no knowledge of what causes most of the trouble, nor how to cure it, only how best maybe to control it. and after the next "conference", more new theories about butter vs margarine, etc.... just because "we" don't happen to agree with your impeccable "logic", that doesn't mean we don't think about things - we just don't think about them the same way that you do. but your side doesn't have a monopoly on facts either. for your side, consider the comments in the thread, which in large part consider themselves as free thinkers but have to develop their philosophy from george carlin, or moveon.org. haven't i been seeing pictures of obama in church on sunday? your hero? or has he been deceived by the bible thumpers too? (we do such great hypnosis) it all really depends what each of us considers to be facts, and what some of us at least are willing to accept in faith. to be in denial of one's spiritual side is like being in denial of your left arm's presence; that everything has to be tangible physical and palpable to be real to a "scientist" is a risky leap of faith that some are unprepared to make. perhaps not others; but that shouldn't give them license to dump on the bible thumpers for what they believe in. look at the article again - the title says to "be careful of..."; doesn't call for a ban, doesn't call for a book burning or a film burning as many who see what they want to see have posted. i guess people only see what they want to see..... "

Honest Omar wrote on Dec 17, 2007 7:22 PM:

" Dear MamaMia, If you are going to sacrifice another goat, please post date/time /place. We will be there. Actually, the 1st Sunday, after the first full moon, on or after the vernal equinox '08 works for us. It makes as much sense as these other Taliban posts. And yes, we will bring the curry. "

JB wrote on Dec 17, 2007 1:52 PM:

" to seven gone: First of all, your side always puts everything into Us v. Them terms. "atheists, free thinkers and pacifists" is what you call us. So that makes your side "Christians, parochial thinkers and warmongers"? And you want to be that? It also leaves out that I am Christian, yet still in disagreement with you. Our side tries to reason with you. We use "our" vocabulary of philosophy, of history, of science, etc., to make our points. When this doesn't work with you, we try to speak in your terms: "eternal life", "values & morals" etc. Yet you don't want to hear this either because it doesn't fit precisely with what your minister taught you in sunday school. You are only able to discuss these issues in your own Christian vocabulary and from your own fundamentalist/evangelical Christian perspective - both of which date from several centuries before our country was founded, and are, I would add, woefully outdated to educated Americans (which should include everybody reading this). Finally, finding that you are still unresponsive to reason, we "dump on you", out of frustration. WE think about our beliefs in order to justify them. YOU merely BELIEVE your beliefs in order to justify them. "

BILL G-A-R-R wrote on Dec 17, 2007 1:10 PM:

" Matt, you couldn't be more wrong. It wasn't religion that doomed the Soviet Union. The Poles wanted freedom. It's you religious zealots that will be the end of this country. Worship in private. This is a democracy NOT a theocracy. The line is blurred between radical Islam and radical fundamentalists. "

WOW wrote on Dec 17, 2007 4:49 AM:

" To Ann: I am totally with you. Why should we let someone else dictate what our children... Like the writer of this column... I feel that if my daughter wants to go and see the Nativity in the theatres (was out last year or the year before) then she can go. If she wants to go and see the Golden Compass, then she can go. She has a firm foundation in her faith. As do I. I will be seeing the movie with her also. This movie is no different than TROY or any other the other mideveil movies that have come out in recent years. They are about the crusades, the greek mythology, Aren't some of these deemed "Against God" also? Why pick on a childs movie. Oh, I see, because the teacher in Bismarack showed an instructional video and it happened to have the God/Devil part or the Good/Evil in it. The odds of this movie being shown in a school - slim to none. If the writer of this article does not want to see the movie or let his children see it, then so be it. But do not ruin it for the rest of us. After all, it is FICTION...... "

HA wrote on Dec 17, 2007 2:52 AM:

" After reading all these comments I came to a few conclusions. If the religious right and Radical Muslims got together and actually talked out their differences, they would see that there is not really much to fight about. Both want to censor things and cram stuff down throats. Both groups have an agenda thats very similar besides their beliefs of god, which is the same god. Both groups also have this our way or the highway mentality. I have never heard of this movie, nor am I interested in seeing it. I am not an atheist nor am I a bible bumper, but am more interested in the history and meanings of all religions. "

Going to see the movie wrote on Dec 16, 2007 10:20 PM:

" Julie - I am offended that you feel you know whats right for anyone else's children. Obviosly anyone that wants to ban a movie based on rumors of what it's about or speclation about the authors religious beliefs are insecure and truly need to look within oneself. There is something wrong with them not the movie, or they wouldn't be afraid of it. "

Cali wrote on Dec 16, 2007 8:05 PM:

" Oh no a movie that doesn't shove Christianity down your throat, I'm surprised they would even dare to show it in ND! Just because the movie doesn't shove Jesus into every opening in your body doesn't make it a bad movie. OMG Shrek doesn't talk about Jesus either!!! Or any of the Toy Stories. Quick everybody, send your children to health class at Simle! "

seven gone wrote on Dec 16, 2007 7:58 PM:

" exactly, matt, couldn't agree more with your comments......personally, i don't really care whether people choose to believe whatever they choose to believe. ultimately, we'll all find out individually who the joke is on when we're dead and gone. what i can't understand particularly germane to this thread is the people who consider themselves atheists, free thinkers, and pacifists who have to go out of their way to dump on the beliefs of someone else.....in the thought they make themselves feel better or otherwise justify their own belief (or lack thereof) by dumping on others......free thinkers indeed!!! "

Point to Ponder wrote on Dec 16, 2007 6:41 PM:

" If you don't like it, don't go. It's simple. That applies to movies, concerts, drag queen shows, Hooter's, Urban Harvest, or whatever. If you don't like it, don't go. "

Never had a chance! wrote on Dec 16, 2007 6:14 PM:

" Remember the uproar about the Harry Potter books and how they were satanic and would turn our children into evil witches and wizards. I am still trying to get my head right after watching the Wizard of Oz when I was a little boy. Then the Batman and Superman comic books came along and turned me into a homosexual. Yikes, I used to as a boy read Mad Magazine, no wonder I am so messed up. "

that's hot wrote on Dec 16, 2007 4:21 PM:

" If books burn at 451 degrees Farenheit, I wonder what temperature it takes to literally "burn" a movie. "

julir. wrote on Dec 16, 2007 3:15 PM:

" I saw the movie and didn't pick up on anything about religion at all. Maybe it was too subtle for me. However, I did pickup on the anti-corporate message. Maybe the people who are coming out against the movie's message should read their bible instead of mindlessly obeying someone telling them how to think. The movies strongest theme was about a young girl who kept her promise to her friend. Oh yeah and questioned authority can't forget that one. Take note bible thumpers read your bible study it well and follow the word of god instead of anti christ. "

Did someone say PartyState? wrote on Dec 16, 2007 3:13 PM:

" Beer is evidence that God loves us and wants us to be happy. - Otto Von Tannenbaum. "

Matt wrote on Dec 16, 2007 12:26 PM:

" It is rather funny really. That some people who might consider themselves free thinkers form their opinion about religion from George Carlin, a comedian!!! Couldn't you say that without their unshaked faith and belief in their religion, the people of Poland and Eastern Europe would still be a "Soviet Union"? A PartyState that tried to destroy "God" from the consciousness of its people. "

Lost wrote on Dec 16, 2007 11:20 AM:

" Better get the latest X Box or Game boy with the latest war game instead. I wonder what the movie was rated? PG, PG13... ?? "

dante wrote on Dec 16, 2007 10:42 AM:

" Jesus rocks. its His fan club that frightens me. and kills. "

BILL G-A-R-R wrote on Dec 16, 2007 10:14 AM:

" My mother passed 2 years ago at age 76, she requested NO catholic service and wanted to be cremated, a simple request. But noooo! Her religiously freaked out sisters blew a gasket. Shunned us at the service and still to this day will not speak to us for honoring our mothers wishes. These women played a very important part in our lives as we were growing up. My point is this... There is no god, there is only mankind. There is no man or woman up in the clouds watching and keeping track of our every move. We've all been had. I'll go further, if there is a god, strike me down now!!!!!............... nope still alive. still helping out other people,still paying taxes. "

Avid Reader wrote on Dec 16, 2007 9:45 AM:

" I am curious Beesh, why is a proponent of free thinking and giving poeple alternate theories a "religion haters"? As a fundamentalist, are you so insecure and fearful of those who are curious and openminded? I for one am not a religion hater, however, I am a freethinker who belives in freedom from or freedom from religion. I have a faith and I am quite certain it is a lot different than yours, but it comes from exploration, research and most importantly, free thought. Isn't it odd how the "free thinkers", scienttists have provided our country with the weapons and technology that allow our country to remain free so fundamentists as well as free thinkers can practice as they wish? Without them we would probably be living under communist or Muslim rule. "

JB wrote on Dec 16, 2007 9:41 AM:

" To Beesh: "have a movie where Christianity shed a true light on secularism"??? I have seen COUNTLESS movies about the evils of secularism, and none were presented from a "Christian" point of view. A few examples: The Godfather, Hardcore, Wall Street, The Great Gatsby, The Wild Bunch, Clockwork Orange, Bonnie & Clyde, A Face in the Crowd, L.A. Confidential -- the list is endless. According to Webster's, "secular" means: "of or relating to the worldly or temporal" EVERYTHING IS SECULAR, BY DEFINITION. People are evil, people are good, life is hard. All of the movies just I mentioned make great statements about things 'secular' and they didn't use the Fear of God to make the point. "

Annie wrote on Dec 16, 2007 9:23 AM:

" Wow. Did you know that L. Frank Baum was a theosophist? Have you ever really examined the Wizard of Oz closely for its symbology? None of it is christian. I can never get over how defensive and insecure christians are whenever the slightest question is raised over their "faith". That faith can't be very strong if you have to protect it from what amounts to butterfly kisses. "

Catholic casualty wrote on Dec 16, 2007 8:23 AM:

" The Christians are so fragile, so afraid that we might peek behind the curtain and find out what a sham their religion is. For a interesting look at this ''drug for the masses'' google "Zeitgeitz'' it's all you need to know about money and dinosaurs. Which by the way were put on earth to test our faith. Hypocrisy thy name is religion. As long as your at it, go to youtube and find George Carlin's take on religion. "

Beesh wrote on Dec 15, 2007 10:53 PM:

" FUnny how you religion haters have no problem with a movie that trashes Christianity, but WHOOOOA, have a movie where Christianity shed a true light on secularism and your dander and spittle will FLY!!! The 'tolerant' aren't so tolerant are they? "

THIS IS SO TIRED...SO OLD wrote on Dec 15, 2007 9:11 PM:

" When are we...finally...going to get rid of this curse that is religion? We will...finally...have true intellectual discourse. And those who now believe and who think they can "buy" salvation by contributing to some institution will keep that money for themselves! "

bought the books wrote on Dec 15, 2007 3:20 PM:

" Thanks to this article I discovered these books, just went out and bought them yesturday! They look like an interesting read, good entertainment. "

Censorship wrote on Dec 15, 2007 12:16 PM:

" It is wonderful that we have a group of people looking out for what we should and should not see. Since we are all little children we need authority figures to lead us. Because most of us have small brains we could be easily confused. It is so nice to have the protection provided by our superior enlightened friends. It is always interesting that rather than think for ourselves these people promote the idea that we just take their word for it. Sound like the philosophy of our president. Glad we just took his word for it in Iraq. I guess things can go wrong when you let the authority figures do you thinking, because you don't have the time. "

Tommy wrote on Dec 15, 2007 9:54 AM:

" Its a movie.... entertainment... let your kids watch it and teach them the rights and wrongs.. or hide them in a closet and let them go nuts when you let them leave the nest for college. If something so simple as movie can challenge your faith then your don't have very strong faith to begin with. Teach your children Faith and it wont be an issue. I would hope that you allow your children to experience other things and dont tell them that this is the only way to do things. Buddhism, Luthern, Catholics, all believe in something.. but they have the right not to as well. the last I heard religion was a choice not an absolute must. Remember people this is a movie. not real life. fantasy.. not reality... entertainment... not religion.. the author has every right to not believe in god.... he has every right to make movies... your children will watch this.. if not with you with friends.. dont shelter them from a simple movie. Its not poorn "

seven gone wrote on Dec 15, 2007 1:23 AM:

" to "ill": sorry for the confusion, but i was simply pointing out the tendency of the left to debase institutions of society that have any religious intonation - and even those that don't but are traditional but non pc ---eg// "christmas"parties, "halloween" parties, references to god even as would be on coins or buildings ... "in god we trust", or even santa claus and his "ho, ho, ho" - the left seeks these and many others to be watered down or eliminated but for fear of offending someone. to me, you can't demand something that you happen to disagree with to be changed to suit a certain agenda, and then turn around and point to "compass" and say if you don't like it or are offended by it, just don't go. hope that helps.... "

cdog wrote on Dec 14, 2007 4:33 PM:

" Heresy. Oh yeah, the world is still flat. Let's just eliminate all discontent. If that were the case, we probably would not have had any pilgrims until alot later than we did. Does the movie specifically reference God and being against it? i haven't seen the movie yet. Seems like the virtues expressed in the movie are good and honorable ones are they not? I saw Star Wars and don't believe Imperial Storm Troopers are coming to get me. I've seen Superman and am quite sure that people cannot fly. It is a movie meant for entertainment value, not a documentary. "

MamaMia wrote on Dec 14, 2007 12:13 PM:

" My apologies if I sounded sexist, Economic Conservative, for you could be a woman. Nevertheless, what I said to you stands, sir or madam! "

ill wrote on Dec 14, 2007 11:56 AM:

" By the way - MamaMia, my dear, you are absolutely right. If more Republicans identified like Economic Conservative, I don't think we'd have the horrible, hateful divide that has occurred in the last 8 years. EC, you're okay in my book, and I'm so far left I'm almost falling off. "

ill wrote on Dec 14, 2007 11:54 AM:

" To Seven Gone - I'm sorry, but I'm not sure what you're telling me...I don't really understand the content of your post. If you can restate more clearly I'd be happy to answer your questions or comment on your point. As far as I can tell, I'm very clear and consistent about my beliefs and viewpoints, but I'm happy to hear your argument. "

Online Editor wrote on Dec 14, 2007 10:12 AM:

" To I am Catholic: I'm not sure why your comment was not posted, feel free to send it again for review. "

I am Catholic wrote on Dec 14, 2007 10:06 AM:

" To online editor... just curious why my post from yesterday was not posted? I explained that my teenage Catholic daughter and I love the books and were disappointed with the movie because it wasnt' very good but my post never appeared. "

seven gone wrote on Dec 14, 2007 9:50 AM:

" to "ill": "...if you don't like it, don't go....." ok. but be consistent --- remember you and your socialist friends who want christianity extracted from any and every element of life by banning now just tell us to look the other way and don't go when your liberal agenda is the only being offensive. can't have it both ways..... "

MamaMia wrote on Dec 14, 2007 9:45 AM:

" To Economic Conservative: I am a dyed in the wool, yellow dog Democrat, but you, sir, are my kind of Republican! Although I vote a straight ticket, I realize that we need elements of both parties in government. Several years ago, a good friend of ours (my husband and myself) ran for the U.S. Senate from North Dakota. We asked him what kind of a Republican he was. His answer was, "I am a fiscal conservative and a social liberal." If I wasn't such an ardent Democrat, I would have voted for him! In the last 20 years or so the Christian right wing nut job fundamentalists have taken over the Republican party, and that is such a shame! If you are not already in politics, Economic Conservative, you should run for election! "

to all who complain wrote on Dec 14, 2007 8:00 AM:

" We have had people complain about hooters comming its not a family place, we have everyone in an uproar about the simile middle school movie shown and now everyone wants to bash everyone over a movie. I for one do believe in GOD, I know where I stand and I dont have to defend this to anyone. I also teach my children about GOD and will continue to, I have deceied to go to the library check these books out and see for myself what really happens. Then I will deceide if I want to have all these questions raised by my kids at this time because of there ages(my youngest is only 5) not because some atheist wrote it. Our kids will ask questions all there lives and I am ashamed to say everyone just needs something to complain about. Some are calling christians a cult yet is there religion or lack of it a cult to then? We need to stop bashing people to go one way or the other but our nation was found as the first line of the constitution would say ONE NATION UNDER GOD if you dont like it and all you can do is complain about religion find somewhere to live where there is none. Fighting over religious beliefs is stupid, put all that energy to fight teen drug and alcohol abuse, teen sex, bullys, guns, whatever what really be hurting our children today and leave the religous views to the individual familys. Just a thought "

The Author has it Backwards wrote on Dec 14, 2007 7:51 AM:

" To Rasmus - unfortunately - yes Missouri Synod Church was the church I was raised in - lots of going to hell over every little thing a person does. Condemnation, a cruel and harsh, and unforgiving God. Not the type of God I want in my life - I am very pro-spirituality very anti-organized-Christian Religion because of the vehemence, condemnation, and hatred organized Christianity teaches. "

Economic Conservative wrote on Dec 14, 2007 7:00 AM:

" Just want to set the facts straight on conservatisim for Chavez and a few of the others. There are basically three types of conservatives, economic, social and fundamentalist or religious conservatives. The Republican Party has been a mix of all three historically, but as of late, the fundamentalist have shouted so loud that many think you have to be a fundamentlist to be a Republican. Nothing can be further from thr truth. You can be a Republican without being a fundamentlist. The Republican Party is losing it's clout because, as many national leaders are recognizing, becuse the party has ignored the voices of economic and social conservatives. Freedom to chose is an imoprtant part of the philosophies of many of us. Perhaps that is why I find Ms. Hess' letter so objectionable. Regulating a person's choices or morally crucifying indivduals for differing opinions is not freedom, and that is going to continue to cause difficulites for all of us in the U.S. While I have spiritual spiritual values, I am not religious and I am offended by continually hearing the latest fundamentalist battle cry: we are a country found on Christian principles. Perhaps that is why I am seriously looking at being an independent when it comes to politics in this day and age. "

kid movie? wrote on Dec 13, 2007 5:04 PM:

" i thought this movie was nicely filmed and had a few good characters, the bear and the cowboy dude stole the show. but i thought the movie had a couple disturbing points that would caution against letting a kid less than about 13 or so watch it. first of all the nicole kidman character was a little too intense, beating up her pet and scaring the crap out of the poor kid on a regular basis and the whole child kidnap and experiment station idea was a little far out there. but for adults i found kidman to be really hot! oh baby. hey it's my first movie review, and i am sorry i did not mention religion or anything. "

open minded Christian wrote on Dec 13, 2007 4:41 PM:

" I didn't read all of the comments...but wow! Such controversy over a movie. C'mon...you don't want your kids to see something, don't take them. This is similar to the flap over Dan Brown's "DaVinci Code." Loved the book, the movie was okay...and guess what, I haven't been struck down yet!! "

Burn the Books wrote on Dec 13, 2007 3:06 PM:

" And films and anything that goes against your beliefs. History is full of such examples. I don't call controlling peoples lives freedom. This outfit in power now has gotten everybody so fearful of anything and everything. And it is dividing this country. "

spearphish wrote on Dec 13, 2007 2:35 PM:

" though it is sad that we are even still talking about this in our day and age, it should come as no surprise that the folks worried about this movie's effects on their children cannot distinguish the difference between fantasy and reality in a book (or movie) and refuse to arm their children with the ability to make such distinctions. if they want them protected, it's time to quit scaring them with spooks and teach them to take real responsibilities for real actions and cease doing or refraining from doing anything in the name of the scary invisible eyes in the sky "

ill wrote on Dec 13, 2007 1:35 PM:

" Are you kidding me? It's a Hollywood movie! If you don't like it, don't go! This is AMERICA, remember? People fought horrible wars so we could do and say and see and make pretty much anything we want! Censorship is a direct violation of the rights that people died for. Hypocrisy runs rampant here, doesn't it? As far as atheists "recruiting," that's hilarious and insane. Atheists, unlike religious people, don't belong to strict clubs that threaten to crush their souls if they don't live by its systems and structures. There's nothing to recruit to, because they don't belong to anything, and the DON'T CARE! Only religious people try to recruit, out of fear and anger and ignorance. So please, get off your pedestal and put your energy into something important, like how "Fred Clause" ever managed to get industry funding. Now THAT'S frightening. Seriously, is THIS all you have to worry about? "

Fact Checking? wrote on Dec 13, 2007 10:35 AM:

" Julie, among his many other books, the author wrote a three-book series called collectively: "His Dark Materials." The THREE books are (in order) The Golden Compass, The Subtle Knife, and The Amber Spyglass. Anyone who had read these books would know this. There is no book called: His Dark Materials. Calling for outrage and concern over something you know little or nothing about is reactionary. The themes of the books are love, loyalty, courage, fear, survival, knowledge, fighting corruption and oppression, and caring for the universe. The three stories are about brave children fighting to survive in a dysfunctional, corrupt, adult world. But yes, brave and loving adult figures help them. The good guys win in the end. "

Chavez wrote on Dec 13, 2007 9:22 AM:

" To Jay: I took offense because you seemed to suggest that a "small minority, the liberal crowd" posts here because we have nowhere else to go, so conservative is North Dakota. Whether you intended it or not, you sought to marginalize a viewpoint you clearIy do not understand and just as clearly oppose. I have news for you, Jay, conservative North Dakota at one time had a socialist government which created the Bank of ND, the State Mill and Elevator, and fought against unjust practices by big business-the latter being the darlings of the conservatives today. I do agree that ND is today conservative; no question about that. However, the dolts who run the national and state Republican parties have made such a mess of things, that the good people of ND (and I am a resident) are turning away from such insanity. At least 7 years too late, I might add. "

Voice of Reason wrote on Dec 13, 2007 12:58 AM:

" To Julie Hess, Thank's for giving all of us the lowdown about The Golden Compass. Until I caught your piece I'd never heard of it. Now I plan to check it out this weekend. Merry X-mas "

socialism is wrong wrote on Dec 13, 2007 12:09 AM:

" seems a small problem here with definitions of terms such as atheist and pacifist, not to mention tolerance --- if you're an atheist, you don't believe in god or anything religious, so why would you even care to comment on this article? by extension, if you're a pacifist then you avoid confrontation, so why are you going out of your collective ways to crap all over us lowly christians who happen to have an opinion about this subject? further if you're so "tolerant", then why do you go out of your way to dump all over ms hess in her article.....or for that matter christians and their little religious idiosyncracies that you all seem so appalled by....isn't tolerance about putting up with others???? give me a break.... "

socialism is wrong wrote on Dec 12, 2007 8:41 PM:

" to "i am an athiest": ... "athiests, by definition are pacifists. and non-judgmental, like you christians. maybe your kids should see this film! It might make them better than you." .........hmmm....gotta give you credit, you made it a whole sentence before you contradicted yourself. "

Ya Gotta Love "Mama Mia" wrote on Dec 12, 2007 8:38 PM:

" Don't know who you are, but the next time you sacrifice a goat, could you post the time and the place? I will be there! I will invite all my christian friends, telling them that it is a surprise party! "

Reiterating "Religious Intolerance" wrote on Dec 12, 2007 8:25 PM:

" You are absolutely right. What does christianity preach: a world created in six days (we now know that our earth is 4.4 billion years old); that Moses thing (there is not one shred of historical or archeological evidence that Jews ever lived in Egypt...and they did NOT build the pyramids); Adam and Eve eating an apple that condemned the future of mankind to suffer?; Noah's ark, and the guy managed to get ALL species on that thing without much effort or any conflict (and creationists say the dinosaurs were also on there!); and then this notion that god had to send his only son to die on a cross to atone for the sin of Adam and Eve (what was the fate of the poor saps between Adam and Eve and Jesus?). This would all be utterly preposterous if one weren't born into this and been brainwashed from birth. On the face of this patent nonsense, a parent WOULD NEVER TEACH THIS TO CHILDREN! So why do christian parents insist on this and condemn atheism or some other religion or philosophy which makes eminently more sense? "

I am an atheist wrote on Dec 12, 2007 8:12 PM:

" Born and raised catholic. Lost my faith in college after a serious attempt by the priests and nuns in grade school and high school to brainwash me. But they also encouraged me to ask questions (I assume to affirm the belief they instilled). Didn't work. I now agree with Karl Marx that religion is truly the "opiate" of the people. It has zero basis in fact. It requires a "leap of faith." ie., mortgage one's intelligence and knowledge of this world to believe the unbelievable in the ephemeral hope for an afterlife that is totally unprovable...except in the simple mind of a "believer." If christianity is so tolerant why are christians on this blog so afraid of atheists? We have never started a war. We have never killed in the name of religion as christianity has: the Jewish pogroms over two millenia and the Inquisition. Atheists, by definition, are pacifist. And non-judgmental...unlike you christians. Maybe your kids should see this film! It might make them better than you! And that would be good...and a start. "

Good Grief wrote on Dec 12, 2007 3:55 PM:

" I have to wonder....an atheist who writes about killing God either in the mind or literally when atheist's do not believe in God. By the way, all Christians are not mindless zelots....to some of us our religion is a very personal thing. The only people I am concerned about are my own children and grandchildren. If you choose to support this movie it is definitely up to you. I just wish people would use a little common sense when taking their children to any movie...I have seen people taking very young children to movies that had violence, sex, inappropriate language, etc. just because they could not get a sitter or didn't want to pay for a sitter. "

RLC wrote on Dec 12, 2007 2:41 PM:

" To one and all, I frankly don't care if you chose to take your child or your friends child or some other child for that matter to this movie. I don't want to come across as sounding superior. It is your choice. I do, however, feel that people should know what the movie is about prior to taking the child. Some may not know. To be fair, check it out on snopes.com They explain about the movie. Then, after finding out, chose at that time if you want to take your kid to the show. If so, that's great. It is your choice, it's a free country after all!!! It IS fiction, but may give the wrong message, in your opinion, to the child, had you not known about the story before hand. This is the link, if the web will let me post it: http://snopes.com/politics/religion/compass.asp "

SE Forty wrote on Dec 12, 2007 2:09 PM:

" Sure is some strange people out there. To much church must do that to you. ITS A MOVIE!!! "

concerned mom wrote on Dec 12, 2007 1:56 PM:

" thanks Julie. "

Religous Crazies wrote on Dec 12, 2007 1:40 PM:

" Maybe you would be more comfortable in a country that censors things that go against religous beliefs? "

Jay W. wrote on Dec 12, 2007 1:02 PM:

" To Chavez: Do you currently live in North Dakota? Is what I said about the vast majority of North Dakotan's not true? It's not the "Good Ol' Days," because those days still exist in North Dakota. You can call names, and belittle my viewpoint, but that fact speaks for itself. North Dakota is Conservative, and probably will be for the forseeable future. You don't have to like it, but please don't paint a picture or pretend that what I said about "Our" state is untrue. If indeed you do live there and find it so objectionable; then leave. I'll come out to take your place, gladly. What is wrong with that. I'm not telling anyone what to think. Just my preference and desire for my life and the life of my family. Why are you so offended by what I said? Sheesh! "

Rasmus wrote on Dec 12, 2007 12:49 PM:

" To The Author Has it Backwards: Just out of curiosity, which Lutheran Church did you go to? Missouri Synod? "

Happy Feet? wrote on Dec 12, 2007 12:28 PM:

" I don't mind Julie warning parents what the jest of this movie, which does make me more interested myself in seeing it. If you are worried about your kid seeing this, Julie did a service for you. If not, why does it matter? I wonder if what she thought of "Happy Feet", I was surprised by the anti-religion message throughout that movie, but it gave my kids and I something to discuss, which was a positive experience. "

HBIC wrote on Dec 12, 2007 12:22 PM:

" I like the idea that all humans have a "animal spirit" who is as close to them as their own heart. And thats partly what the movie is about. Its just a movie, and everyone knows that. And everyone knows you can't kill God either. Why don't you send your letters to Nicole Kidman and the rest of the actors in the movie....you might get some more attention from them. That is what your after, isn't it? "

Christian Mom wrote on Dec 12, 2007 11:42 AM:

" It's ironic...so many non-believers will not allow our children to pray in school, will not allow the ten commandments to be displayed in public buildings, and want to remove the mention of God from every bit of our lives. Yet, one Christian woman expresses her views about a movie and "Oh my GOD" you all come out in full force to attack her. Shame on you! "

why??? wrote on Dec 12, 2007 11:05 AM:

" We have the freedom of choice in America so why cant we see this movie. It is written from an Athiests perspective. ok lets get one thing straight atheists r NOT satanists. They dont promote religion for really good reasons. The 2 causes of war are political and religious idioligy. The war we are in now- we r fighting extremists of the islamic faith. If we cant see a movie because it doesnt promote religion, does that mean we cant watch shows that dont, lisnen to music that doesnt honestly get your heads out of the sand and if u dont like dont see it. But dont take somebody else's right to see it just cause you dont like it. "

watch out wrote on Dec 12, 2007 10:33 AM:

" First it was gays at a drag show, then the evil of Hooters. Now, Bismarck is subjected to "The Golden Compass" and a teacher being reprimanded for showing "A Letter from Hell" in class. Look out, it's the end times! "

Point to Ponder wrote on Dec 12, 2007 10:29 AM:

" "Children are this world's future leaders, and as parents, we have the responsibility and obligation of not only loving them but also knowing what they are reading and watching." I agree, which is why you should never let your kids watch "Davey and Goliath." Creepy little freak and his talking dog. "

Chavez wrote on Dec 12, 2007 10:02 AM:

" To Jay W.: i guess all of us should be grateful, then, Jay W., that you are here to give us all the straight poop on what constitutes "morals" and to warn us of the dangers of liberals, humanists, atheists, agnostics, women, minorities, and so on. Yep, in your "good ole' days" mentality and view of conservativism, people thought the same, acted the same, thought the same--you know, like the old Soviet Union. The problem with comnservativism today, besides its being grossly infected by religious fanatics, is that it considers its views the only right ones, its faith the only true faith, and its conclusions the only ones worth speaking about. Otherwise, to people like Jay W., it is all some sort of Illuminati plot to--gasp!--encourage critical thinking, equality between races and sexes, and peace before war. If your worldview is what conservative thought is about, I will leave it in the garbage can where it belongs. "

MamaMia wrote on Dec 12, 2007 8:53 AM:

" To Natalie: Seriously, you really believe all that? Just because someone has pounded it into your head since childhood? Why don't you try thinking rationally? If you do, you will see how silly it all sounds. Jesus may have walked the earth and said some wonderful things and gave people hope and new ideas, but the rest of all that is just some nonsense a bunch of cult members made up after he died. In making up the virgin birth fairy tale, the walking on water, the water into wine (oh, would that I could!) and all the rest of it, they negated all the real good he might have done. Sad, sad, sad. "

Jay W. wrote on Dec 12, 2007 8:49 AM:

" I lived in North Dakota for my first 27 years, then moved to liberal Minnesota. I know that the North Dakota that I grew up in was not then, and I doubt is now, the liberal, biased state that would seem to be depicted by the majority of the posted comments here. North Dakota is known for its conservatism, work ethic, and high moral standards. I have no doubt that newspaper sites and the like are where the very small minority of North Dakota's liberal crowd hangs out. Because there are so few of them in the overall population, they gather together in forums such as this to do battle against those who look so differently upon the world. Like it or not, in North Dakota, the majority of these comments are held by a very small minority of the population. To those of you who are more conservative, be appreciative that your children are raised and educated in such an environment. Often times you only need to cross the border to enter an entirely different world. I look forward to the day that I move my family back HOME! "

Chavez wrote on Dec 12, 2007 7:27 AM:

" TO Natalie: Well, fine, tell your kids about how you view Jesus Christ and what you think the Bible says about him. What most of us object to here isn't whether or not people are conservative Christians and practice that faith daily, but the tone of the original letter-writer who for some reason felt she had to "warn" people about an alleged anti-Christian movie. The sad truth is that fundamentalism, Pentecostalism, and Charismatic Christian faiths have a great deal of difficulty dealing with the outside world. They see it as something to be feared, to corral, to keep away. Well, Natalie, I am not afraid of the world and after all of the to-do about this movie--one I had no plans to go and see--I think now that I will: just to P.O. the Religious Right. "

Natalie wrote on Dec 12, 2007 12:44 AM:

" Every parent has an obligation to raise their children in the ways of God. We are accountable for their upbringing as God has entrusted them to us. A movie that portrays God Almighty in this way is obviously something that we do not want our children to encounter. They need to know that Jesus came to earth in human form through the virgin Mary, was tempted and tried yet with no sin, was crucified and paid the debt for our sins so that we can be redeemed by His blood from the curse of sin, was raised from the dead and is now seated at the right hand of our Father making intercession on our behalf and that we have the Holy Spirit as our guide and comfort in this life. The Holy Spirit will either give you peace or uneasiness about a thing. This movie is clearly not one that the Holy Spirit will give you (a believing parent) peace concerning as God is not glorified which is the essence of all things. In everything we do, God must be glorified. To those who do not believe in Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior, my prayer is that your past pain and hurt will be healed and that you will find your way back to Him because He wants to heal you, restore you, love you and wipe your tears away for only Jesus can set you free and give you hope and His joy. "

The Davinci Code? wrote on Dec 11, 2007 11:01 PM:

" Wasn't that ficition? Oh, yeah, so is this flick. My goodness, what christian fuss over nothing. "

Question for you Miss Hess... wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:59 PM:

" What TV programs do you allow your children to watch? "

Taking my grandkids to this one! wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:57 PM:

" Can't wait! As a 60 year old grand parent, I wonder if I will get the so-called hidden philosophy. Think the grand kids will just love the visuals! And we all love the theater buttered popcorn! See you there! "

To:ss wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:54 PM:

" I agree about the "movie thing." Christians are by nature just so paranoid. I wonder why. Perhaps it is because they really cannot defend their faith? "

Protecting Your Children wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:51 PM:

" My goodness! You christians are worried about a movie aimed at children? What will happen when they go to college and are exposed to Existentialism (assuming they can read at that age, or write coherently...because you are so concerned about their education)? Atheism combined with committment! Imagine that! Sounds better than any christianity I have experienced! "

The "Golden Compass" is atheist? wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:46 PM:

" About time children are exposed to an alternative to religion! "

To: Julie Hess wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:42 PM:

" Just a stupid question: have you bothered to view this film yourself...or are you simply spouting some "christian" stuff you have read? Just wondering. "

What about Mel Gibson? wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:39 PM:

" That piece of horrifically blatent physical violence about the crucifixion of Jesus might just be the worst piece of cinema ever. Would you show your children this? "

OK wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:35 PM:

" OK. So now we know the local christian zealots don't like this film, which they have never seen...refuse to see...because of some christian cricticism they have read. I say, we go in droves...and bring our kids. It is about time somebody gave them an alternative to the mind numbing mindlessness of these people! "

I just love christians.... wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:32 PM:

" They are sooo much fun. So paranoid. So out of touch. So fearful. So dogmatic. What complete and fulfilled lives they must lead! "

Have we become this stupid? wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:29 PM:

" So, we now condemn a movie for directing the beliefs of our children. To you so-called believers, are you this afraid? Shame on you! If you cannot defend your own beliefs against a "movie!" you cannot defend anything. "

Religious Intolerance wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:25 PM:

" So...it is just fine to preach christianity and christian nonsense to the young, naive and innocent. But it is not ok to show them an alternative view. "

Maybe this wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:23 PM:

" Now just what god do we get from the bible? The most despicable, intolerant, vicious, demanding jerk in all of literature...who demands the murder of countless innocents and slavery and sexual slavery. Doubt this? Read your bible! So this local woman wants children to be exposed to this rather than some film that might...just might...shed some doubt on this? "

To: Ms Hess wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:18 PM:

" You seem a bit intolerant to view points that are not yours. Why? Who among us, in the final analysis, has the ultimate answers? "

Christianity vs. Atheism? wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:10 PM:

" No contest. Atheism wins "hands down." By definition atheism is pacifist...why would an atheist harm anyone. But not christians...who have killed countless persons, mostly Jews, over the centuries. And the Holocaust is the supreme example. "

Oh, Another Christian Who Feels Threatened... wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:06 PM:

" Oh, my, the forces of evil are indeed on the loose. Atheisim! Your source for all evil! But what atheist in the history of man began a war or genocide? Give me one example. One will do. Stalin studied for the Catholic Orthodox priesthood before he found other outlets for his particular talents. And Hitler was raised catholic. "

C'Mon! wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:03 PM:

" This is just a film! And, supposedly, a very diluted one at that from the text of the author. As a christian you feel threatened for your children? Easy! Don't pay for the damned tickets to let them see it! And may your god grant you tolerance for other beliefs. "

So... wrote on Dec 11, 2007 9:59 PM:

" It is just fine to fill children's heads with the mishmash that is Christianity, with its pograms against the Jews, its Inquisition, ad nauseum, but it is not ok to show children an alternative: non-belief, which is totally pacifist? "

get real wrote on Dec 11, 2007 9:38 PM:

" amusing....the socialists now come out and say that freedom of expression should reign....yes the same ones that a few weeks back had so much to say about the banning of "christmas" parties because they seemed to force feed a certain agenda.....now they're alright with things as long as their own hedonism and godlessness is the view being advanced. go figure........... "

Jill wrote on Dec 11, 2007 7:02 PM:

" So "racist biker", you basically are admitting this movie COULD influence people, because you said you were influenced by the DiVinci Code via the seed was planted into your thinking of the christian church? Also, the term Mr. Pullman used "killing God"...he just means killing the thoughts of God in people's mind. Mr. Pullman has his athiestic views, but I think he still has the right to make his movies. But, people should have the right to support it or boycot it also without being judged or criticized...but we all know that will never happen. "

kokka wrote on Dec 11, 2007 6:36 PM:

" Well it is certainly evident that the liberal left is alive and well! If any conservative tries to voice an opinion they are shut down. This is sickening. This paper is getting worse and worse. I canceled my subscription and now I guess I will just stop reading online. I am tired of all the liberals thinking that they can do whatever they want all time and face no consequences. I am sorry for you all. "

Trust in your faith! wrote on Dec 11, 2007 5:34 PM:

" Please, Ms. Hess, your concern is appreciated, however, your opinion that this book / movie is "trash" and parents should be "outraged" makes me chuckle. You choose literature like this to get hysterical about? There are many other forms of media that are much more dangerous for our children to be exposed to. I do not see the book / movie as a "seed of fear and mistrust". For goodness sake, don't you have enough faith in god to trust that your children will have, or that you can give them, the right perspective on The Golden Compass? And of course Random House Children's Books or Sega is involved, this is exactly what they do, it's their business niche. Have faith in yourself, and your god, I say, and you will have nothing to worry about when your child experiences The Golden Compass. "

think for yourself wrote on Dec 11, 2007 4:54 PM:

" Go to snopes.com and enter "Golden Compass" into the search engine. I'm not a Christian who overreacts and boycotts everything in sight, but I'm not going to support this movie. The author of the books it is based on has a definite anti-religious plan, as he has been quoted (see snopes) as saying he wrote the books because wanted to "kill God in the minds of children." Now I don't care what religion you are or aren't, that's just creepy. The movie itself might not contain that sentiment, but I'd think twice before supporting such an anti-religious fanatic. "

Racist Biker wrote on Dec 11, 2007 3:31 PM:

" Oh and other thing didn't the Da Vinci Code already plant the seed of fear and mistrust of Christianity and the church? I know that movie sure did make me think. "

Racist Biker wrote on Dec 11, 2007 3:27 PM:

" They kill God? How do you kill God? I thought he/she/it is/was immortal how do you kill an immortal? Do you cut off the head drive a stake through the heart shot it with a bullet what was used to kill off God? Now I'm curious. Wasn't planning on seeing the movie before but now I will have to. Thanks Julie "

B in M wrote on Dec 11, 2007 3:05 PM:

" TAHiB - Just think the Lutheran God is less strict than the Catholic or Baptist God. One nation under God... "

Amanda wrote on Dec 11, 2007 3:05 PM:

" A MOVIE or a BOOK should not influence what YOUR children do or do not believe in. YOU are the parent and YOU are the one who is teaching them about God (or whoever you feel they should learn about). If children were so easily swayed by a movie or a book then why are you not going after the Harry Potter movies and books? Those were all about witch craft you know. Get over it!! Don't see it if you don't want to, don't let your kids go to it. For those of us who do, we won't be swayed by your bashing. "

R. Oven wrote on Dec 11, 2007 2:39 PM:

" So the churches are afraid of a fantasy tale, but rarely say a word about films containing killing after killing, On top of that a majority of the church goers voted for people who support war? I'm just happy to be an athiest who wants to help people make the world clean, safe, accepting, loving, and peaceful. "

Christian Mom: wrote on Dec 11, 2007 2:29 PM:

" To Julie Hess: Thank you for calling this movie to the attention of Christian families. We will all make our own decisions about what our children should watch. I believe you can never be too careful when it comes to forming the mind of a young child. Perhaps children won't pick up on the book series intent of disarming Christian believers--but better safe than sorry. Especially when there is so much fantasy that goes awry nowdays like video games, the Internet. . . "

The Author Has it Backwards wrote on Dec 11, 2007 2:06 PM:

" Christianity, as I was raised, with a vengeful and judgemental God, one who will send me to Hell if I don't go to Church and Tithe is the single biggest facilitator to fear and mistrust of Christianity. The Lutheran God I was raised with considers any mistake I have made a Sin against Christ, hates me when I don't go to church, will send me to Hell because I don't go to church and I don't tithe to the Lutheran Church. Heck, even Mother Theresa will go to Hell by the definition of the Lutheran God I was raised with. That's a far bigger reason for me to fear and mistrust Religion's Christianity anyday. While I do believe in God and Christ, my God and my Christ are now very loving and kind - I don't believe in the vengeful, hateful, intolerant God of the Organized Churches - I believe in a God and Christ of spirituality. Remember the old adage - Religion are for those who fear going to Hell and Spirituality is for those who have already been there. "

Bismarcker wrote on Dec 11, 2007 1:33 PM:

" Well I wasn't going to see this movie, but I think I will now. "

THEDeb wrote on Dec 11, 2007 12:39 PM:

" Heeeeeeeyyyyyyy here's a tip, Jules : if you don't want to have your children watch this movie or read the books - tell them not to. It's called parenting. I, on the other hand, am making this required watching for my family over your "Xmas Season" so they can get a good dose of reality along with all the hub bub about Christ dying. Or is this the holiday where he rolled back the stone and saw his shadow and we have three more weeks of winter? I get so confused... "

The Great Ape wrote on Dec 11, 2007 12:02 PM:

" Julie is entitled to her opinion. She, in my opinion, is trying to get her point, whether valid or not, accross in the wrong way. In my day, when bananas were plentiful; and I was learning the art of properly eating one; the band KISS was the devil from hell. It all started with someone stating that if you turned a KISS record, (yes I'm dating myself), backwards you could hear SATANIC chants. Church and parent groups came together to stop these devil worshipers. Some parents went so far as to destory the records their kids had. This was thirty years ago. Today KISS has been America's #1 gold record award winning group of all time (RIAA). They have sold more than 80 million records and earned more than 55 gold, platinum and multi-platinum awards. My my I say, give me a banana any day so I do not have to deal with these past or modern day HEATHENS. "

BigStinkAboutNothing wrote on Dec 11, 2007 11:07 AM:

" Mr. Pullman's in various past interviews has indicated his novels are about "killing god", and tongue in cheek, comments that his novels are aimed at children specifically to "indoctrinate" them into athiesm. OK, so we know his background...so now as a parent, it is up to YOU to decide what your children to watch. If you allow them to see this movie, go with them, and visit with your child afterwards in case they have questions...or in case YOU yourself have concerns about the content in the movie that may contradict your beliefs, or the beliefs you want your children to have. Should this movie be BANNED? Absolutely not. Should people use common sense and choices as to whether they want to go or not...Absolutely. Chances are, this movie is going to be way over any childs head as far as the conroversy surrounding this movie...I'm sure most children would look at it as a fantasy movie aka "chronicles of narnia" (which was pro-God)...but I bet the kids that went to that movie didn't even know it. "

Gardog wrote on Dec 11, 2007 11:00 AM:

" Of course, my viewpoint on the constitution is obviously warped, since I went and saw the movie. Oddly enough, I thought it had a very profound bias toward taking responsibility for one's own actions, and against the justification that one ws only following authority, so one could say it is anti-church. However, the movie seems to present a concept very similar to what Martin Luther talked about, and which even the Catholic church recently acknowledged was correct in the idea that there is a personal relationship between each individual and 'grace'. It's not the concepts which are dangerous, it's how you think about them, and that is what frightens some people, which is exactly the point of the movie. "

Movie Goer wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:59 AM:

" Well maybe we should post something about The Bee Movie, any movie that portrays Santa Claus, and anything else that is fictional. If you cannot distinguish between fantasy and reality you have a major problem. I took my son to this movie over the weekend and we both loved it...we didn't care for the ending but hey Hollywood will make a sequel I'm sure. Teaching children the difference between reality and fantasy is part of parenting; we discussed the movie afterward and he was quite clear on the fact that was a fictional setting. I appreicate your opinion but don't discourage others from viewing this wonderful movie. These fantasy movies have encouraged many children I know to actually read the series of books that they are based on!! As if this is so bad. "

Living in a Christian country? wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:55 AM:

" Not that I have a problem with people who have Christian beliefs, but I distinctly recall that the US constitution has something to say about whether this is a Christian country, or a country without a State sponsored church. Are you sure we are living in the same country? Having many sincere Christians living in this country is not supposed to be the same thing as this being a "Christian country". "

warmachine wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:35 AM:

" RRMC sacrificed his CAT to the devil..........RRMC.....how did your cat end up in MY house? I am not the devil....that cat is......... "

MamaMia wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:29 AM:

" I meant to go see this movie last night but I was busy sacrificing a goat. "

To chad s. wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:23 AM:

" Watching out for "our" children. I think maybe your children. Unlike you, I want my children to have an opportunity to discover ideas beyond what Christians indoctrinate. I am a Christian myself, however, I am not so narrow minded as to believe that Christianity is the one and only religion. The more curious you are, the more likely you are to investigate, the more you do that, the more you learn. Besides, I'm sure there are some christian groups out there who have ideas you don't agree with. Are they non christian as well?? "

ss wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:11 AM:

" Christianity is overated and not everyone has to believe in what you believe!! Get a life lady it's just a freakin movie..... "

Chad S wrote on Dec 11, 2007 10:02 AM:

" Thank you to the people who are looking after the good of our youth. Apparantly, by reading your comments, many of you don't care about what your children view or who is to shape your child's mind. May I suggest renting Chainsaw Massacre to show to your young children? Hey, you don't care and don't want to be told what not to watch....let's see how many nightmares your children have then. Although there are other religions, we are a Christian community living in a Christian country who (for most of us) would like to keep the Christianity growing in our children. Kudos to those of you giving the responsible parents a "heads up" to the attempted brainwashing out there. "

NYxND wrote on Dec 11, 2007 9:39 AM:

" Are you serious??? I thought Hollywood was controlled by the homosexuals and the Jews? Now we need to fear the Atheist Agenda? So what "christian values" do the other movies out there espouse? Lets look at what's showing at the Grand Theaters right now: Enchanted. Beowolf. Fred Claus. The Mist. No Country for Old Men. Hitman. Awake. American Gangster. Where is the outrage over these films? They are being marketed just as much as "Compass." Maybe we should just have a big old fashioned book and film burning in the parking lot. That might make Julie happy. "

Local Yokel wrote on Dec 11, 2007 9:35 AM:

" Now I have to go see it just to see what all the fuss is about. "

Yan wrote on Dec 11, 2007 9:25 AM:

" Julie, your last sentence is absolutely correct: YOU as a parent do have an obligation to know what your kids are reading and watching. I'd be willing to bet you haven't seen the movie you're lambasting. So how do you know what is says? Please stop trying to force your insecurities in your religious beliefs down anyone else's throat. Some people -- some parents, even! -- see the presentation of opposing viewpoints as an opportunity for discussion of different belief systems, maybe even an opportunity for parents to tell their children why they believe what they do, rather than demanding blind faith and obediance. What ridiculous fear-mongering. "

RLC wrote on Dec 11, 2007 9:22 AM:

" The thing with this is, although the movie may be mild, it peaks the interest of kids who then want to read the books. Appearently, by the end of the third book, 2 children set out to kill God. If you aren't aware of this ahead of time and allow your children to read the books, it may be upsetting. It's just a forwarning. If you want your kids to read the books, that's fine, it's your choice. Just be aware, that is all. "

NDr wrote on Dec 11, 2007 9:21 AM:

" Let's see now. We have far right religious leaders like Pat Robertson preaching that we should "take out" world leaders we don't like. Totally ignoring the Commandment that says "Thou Shalt Not Kill" (btw... that commandment has no if's, and's, or butt's behind it) and you're worried about a stupid fiction movie because the guy behind it happens to be an athiest? Get a life!!! "

warmachine wrote on Dec 11, 2007 9:04 AM:

" What's next Julie? Book burning? Your movie review will be rated after every kid in Bismarck (smart kids) has previewed this flick and read your missive. "

Rusty Shackelford wrote on Dec 11, 2007 8:50 AM:

" Yah, I'm sure a little kid going to a movie for entertainment, will put 2 and 2 together and figure out that the director is an athiest and the movie is about "a war in heaven and God is killed off so people can do as they please." Heck I'm 41 and I didn't even put that together. Thanks Julie for pointing that out to me. You think if I point that out to my 7 year old nephew he'll get the point? "

Perspective wrote on Dec 11, 2007 8:49 AM:

" I like the phrase "an atheist prospective". An atheist perspective is reality. We certainly would not want children viewing the world from that perspective. It would be far better for children to have their minds filled with myth and superstition. "

RRMC wrote on Dec 11, 2007 8:34 AM:

" Your Right!! I just saw this movie and sacrificed my cat to the devil. "

BabyT wrote on Dec 11, 2007 8:26 AM:

" Isn't christianity generally supposed to be tolerant of other religions, or in this case, no religion? Nobody is forcing you to go to this movie, and in fact, I heard firsthand that the movie is actually quite good. Instead of brainwashing your kids to a narrow minded single point of view, give them exposure to ALL points of view and let them make up their own mind. "

Chavez wrote on Dec 11, 2007 8:26 AM:

" Ah, you knew it was going to happen. Not happy with demanding that books and movies like "Harry Potter" and "Lord of the Rings" be removed or boycotted for an alleged "anti-Christian" theme or characters, the Religious Right has found a new boogy-man to cry about. The Religious Right will move heaven and earth to ensure they are heard about these "pressing" moral issues, but at the same time they will continue to suppport political agendas that support death, eliminates health care for children, and of course, supports war against the "infidel" Muslims. This is the mindset of the late Jerry Falwell, who claimed that one of the Tella-tubbies represented the gay lifestyle, and of others who gleefully burn books and recordings of unbelievers. Make no mistake, these folks would like to ban anything and everything about which the disagree: you see, they think they are doing the will of God, so anything you say against them goes in one ear and out the other. Let's call it what it is: religious fanaticism. "

nd wrote on Dec 11, 2007 8:23 AM:

" "Children are this world's future leaders, and as parents, we have the responsibility and obligation of not only loving them but also knowing what they are reading and watching" We also have the responsibility of teaching our children that there are many different viewpoints from people around the world. So because its not written by a Christian, it must obiviously have some hidden agenda. Come on lady. When Chronicles of Narnia came out, did you see every Jewish or Mulism writing letters to the editor denouncing its pro-christian stance? If you want your children to truly be educated, then allow them the opportunity to expand their views. Let them discover there are other things in this world besides Christianity. If anyone is harming children, it is people like you with your narrow point of view. "

Dave wrote on Dec 11, 2007 7:18 AM:

" Julie, It's a movie for crying out loud. Don't go!! Are you that insecure that a movie is really affecting your life that much? It amazes me what some people will complain about. Your letter will probably make more people want to see the movie. "

dante wrote on Dec 11, 2007 7:12 AM:

" sorry, but i'm too busy reading books about the Spanish Inquisition and the Crusades right now to bother with stupid movies. "

Ann wrote on Dec 11, 2007 7:09 AM:

" So what if the writer of this film is an atheist! This film, like many other films out there is FICTION, and a fantasy, NOT someone's attempt to take away anyone's belief in a god. I am much less afraid of what an atheist may have to say, than what some of our right-wing religious fanatics try to cram down people's throats. After all, atheists aren't generally out there organizing, getting together and holding vigils, and in general trying to find ways to recruit more and more people to their beliefs..... as opposed to MANY fundamentalis christian and other religious groups out there. "

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