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Handout #189 |
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One does not abolish idols in a day |
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To erect crosses and to invite the Indians to show signs of respect towards
them is a good thing, provided that one can make them understand the
significance of these acts. But if one does not have enough time, or cannot
speak their language, it is useless and superfluous, because the Indians can
suppose that one is offering them a new idol which represents the God of the
Christians. In this way one may be encouraging them to revere a piece of
wood as a god, which is idolatry.
The safest way to proceed, the only rule which Christians should observe when they are in pagan countries, is to give a good example by virtuous works, in such a way that, according to the words of our redeemer, 'seeing your works, they may praise and glorify your Father and may think that a God who has such worshipers can only be good and true. Las Casas, History of the Indians. |
