Is Jerry Falwell's Hospitalization a Turning Point for Evangelical Politics?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the hospitalization and subsequent death of Rev. Jerry Falwell, exploring its implications for evangelical politics and reactions from various individuals. The scope includes personal reflections, political critiques, and societal commentary.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express condolences for Falwell's family while critiquing his political views.
  • There are mixed feelings about Falwell's impact, with some viewing him as a divisive figure in evangelical politics.
  • Concerns are raised about Fred Phelps potentially protesting Falwell's funeral, with references to the Westboro Baptist Church's history of similar actions.
  • One participant notes the distinction between Falwell and Phelps, arguing that they represent different aspects of evangelicalism.
  • Another participant expresses relief at Falwell's passing, labeling him a "blind intolerant fundamentalist" and criticizing his influence on science.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants exhibit a range of opinions regarding Falwell's legacy and the appropriateness of reactions to his death. There is no clear consensus, as some express respect while others openly criticize him.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference rumors and speculation about protests at Falwell's funeral, indicating uncertainty about the accuracy of these claims.

Ivan Seeking
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LYNCHBURG, Va. — The Rev. Jerry Falwell was found unconscious in his office Tuesday and taken to the hospital, a Liberty University executive told a newspaper. [continued]
http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070515/NEWS07/70515037/0/BUSINESS01

CNN International is reporting that he is being given CPR right now, so it doesn't look good for Falwell.
 
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According to the link he is now dead.
 
Not quite the event as if Mr. Phelps had passed, but close enough.
 
Rest in peace Jerry.
I wish his family strength.
 
arildno said:
Not quite the event as if Mr. Phelps had passed, but close enough.

I don't know if it's just a rumor or the truth, but I heard Phelps was going to protest Falwell's funeral. It's a bizarre world we live in.
 
Awww, someone got rid fo my best wishes to Mr. Falwell. :devil: :devil: :devil:
 
While I have a small list of complaints that I could have lodged against Falwell (none against his religious beliefs, but many against his political views), it is unfortunate to see him go.

Moonbear said:
I don't know if it's just a rumor or the truth, but I heard Phelps was going to protest Falwell's funeral. It's a bizarre world we live in.

Not entirely (at least not for this reason). Fred Phelps isn't remotely similar to either evangelical Christians, or the fundamentalist Christians who form a subset of said group. For example, they protest soldiers' funerals, whereas most fundamentalists would be all for the Iraq war. They've even protested a Billy Graham event, despite that Graham is a favorite among Christians of all varieties. So if Phelps protested Jerry Falwell's funeral, that would at least be consistent.
 
Moonbear said:
I don't know if it's just a rumor or the truth, but I heard Phelps was going to protest Falwell's funeral. It's a bizarre world we live in.
The Westboro Baptist Church has publicly declared on their website to picket Falwell's funeral.
 
I pay my traditional respects and give my condolences to his family. One less blind intolerant fundamentalist trying to distort science. I am not particularly found of those people.
 

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