United Church of God

Pastor Interviewed on Talk Show About Patriotism

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Pastor Interviewed on Talk Show About Patriotism

She and her cohost, John Hall, do a talk show from 4 to 6 p.m. weekdays on Christian station WORD-FM 101.5 Pittsburgh (www.wordfm.com).

She told Mr. Hooser they wanted to interview him because she found his Good News article "Patriotism: The Good, the Bad and the Biblical," which appeared in the January/February 2003 issue, on the Web, and they were planning to focus on the subject of patriotism during their July 3 show.

The phone interview was recorded the morning of July 3. Some of the questions they asked included:

What is patriotism? Are there good and bad ways to be patriotic? (Mr. Hooser explained the difference between patriotism and nationalism.)

What does it mean to be a good citizen? Does the Bible teach patriotism? Are there examples of patriotism in the Bible?

Do you believe that God has especially blessed and protected the United States? If so, why? Do you believe God might withdraw His blessings someday?

Are we experiencing less patriotism in America? Why are increasing numbers of people unpatriotic?

Mr. Hooser said the interview "was very respectful and supportive. I think it was three times they mentioned that 'he has written an excellent article on patriotism' and twice said it was linked on their Web site.

"I was glad for the opportunity to sow some more seeds of truth, although I was a little nervous," he said.