Why do non-Catholics so often take the initiative in "evangelizing" Catholics? Is there anything I can do to reverse the trend, without becoming a priest or a monk?
Don't let the "other side" get all the press, and don't stand silently by when all the ink gets splattered in all the wrong places. Write back — letters to the editor, that is. Here's some advice from the experts:
We all have seen anti-Catholic bias in the media. Sometimes it is a function of simple ignorance. Sometimes it is evidence of a deep-seated hostility. Either way, don't let misrepresentations about the faith go by without composing a quick answer.
Every opinion page editor wants lively letters to the editor. (He keeps his job only if he keeps this section popular.) The editor may not be a Catholic--he may not even like Catholics or their beliefs--but he'll print your letter if you write charitably, succinctly, and with verve.
The chief rule: Keep it short. An editor reserves the right to shorten long letters, but he usually doesn't want to use his time doing that. It's easier to throw long letters away. Your chances of getting your letter printed are greatest if you stay within 200 words, if you type your letter neatly, and if you include your name, address, and telephone number (so the editor can check that it was you who wrote, not someone using your name).
Many folks have their letters printed regularly. So can you. Remember: By writing just one short letter, you can influence thousands.
[For more great stuff like this check out the source for yourself — Catholic Answers' on-line apologetics clearing house, www.catholic.com/library ]
Photo credit: John Kirrane, 2002
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