In response to Ashley Herzog's May 17 column, Media play up 'Da Vinci Code' furor
not all Catholics, myself included, oppose Dan Brown's The Da Vinci Code.
I was baptized into the Catholic faith, confirmed (a sacrament marking your adult entry into the faith) and attended a private Catholic elementary school for seven years. Upon graduating from high school, I received the prestigious Christian Witness Award from my parish. I attend mass in Athens at St. Paul, which I feel is more traditional than the other Catholic Church ' Christ the King. I even have my rosary hanging next to my bed (ask my roommates).
With this being said, I think it's obvious that I am devoted to my faith and its teachings; however, I am not responding to 'The Da Vinci Code' with educational outreach programs. I am, quite honestly, doing the exact opposite. After ranting and raving about the novel, a number of my friends and relatives have borrowed my copy of the book and have loved it too.
I think we all, regardless of our religious affiliation, need to take a moment and be grateful for novels like Brown's and films similar to Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ that challenge and question our deep-rooted beliefs. In addition, be appreciative to live in a country that allows such distribution of controversial subject matter.
Each one of us has our own perceptions of the spiritual world, God, Jesus, etc. ' none of which can be absolutely proved to be correct. Keep in mind that The Da Vinci Code is not part of Alden Library's non-fiction collection.
It is a novel bearing some factual components, i.e. Leonardo Da Vinci did paint The Last Supper. This novel is simply a genius depiction of the perceptions held by its characters concerning the life of Jesus Christ. Brown explains it best:
While it is my belief that some of the theories discussed by these characters may have merit each individual reader must explore these characters' viewpoints and come to his or her own interpretations. My hope in writing this novel was that the story would serve as a catalyst and a springboard for people to discuss the important topics of faith religion
and history. (www.danbrown.com)
As of May 2006, over 60.5 million copies of The Da Vinci Code are in print across the globe. And even with the Vatican's call to boycott the film, I doubt Sony has much to worry about today. I hope to see you standing in line at the Athena Grand.' Mariah Knepper is junior communication major.
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