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My evangelical co-worker won't stop preaching to me

DAVID EDDIE

From Friday's Globe and Mail

Latest comment posted at 3:22 PM EDT 29/02/08

I don't think she's a bad person but I'm not loving it either. Any advice? ...Read the full article

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  1. Alistair McLaughlin from Canada writes: Tell her you'll be happy to listen to her preaching, but only after she sleeps with you. You'll never hear another sermon, I guarantee it. (And if you do, at least she'll have made it worth it.)
  2. Alistair McLaughlin from Canada writes: Of course I was assuming that the complainant was male. Though come to think of it, such a suggestion would likely shut her up, regardless of your gender. :)
  3. Ivan Highland from Toronto, Canada writes: There is definitely something wrong here. I personally would go to my immediate supervisor and tell him/her how come this employees has enough time on her hands to go from one cubicle to another and disturb everybody with her religious beliefs?

    He/she should be given more work so that there is not enough time to be idle and walk around disturbing everybody.
  4. Maritimer in Nova Scotia from Sydney, Canada writes: 'So don't go upstairs. You could just be shooting yourself in the foot.'

    Nobody has to put up with this kind of behaviour.

    Harassment of any kind is still harassment. If this was sexual instead of religious what would you do? Human Rights Commissions are there for a good reason -- use them.

    We have 'freedom of religion' which also means 'freedom from religion'.

    Nobody has the right to bombard you with unwanted, offensive talk and/or material of ANY kind.

    It is management's responsibility to curb such behaviour in the work place & if they won't then it is up to the courts to do it for them.

    I'm sure a lot of this kind of behaviour is overlooked too often & thus poisons the work place for a lot of people.
  5. J B from Canada writes: This type of thing used to happen to me at a placed I worked once too. Going to work in the morning was almost like going to church. I can't count the number of times this one female co-worker would go on and on, 'This is the day that the Lord has made....' And then my boss would heartily agree with her. Then I would be asked to agree with the statement. I didn't want to cause a fuss, so I would say, 'Sure.' Then I would be chastised for saying this with a smiling face because apparently it was 'no joking matter'.

    However, when asked if I was also 'against gays' I just walked away without answering.

    Needless to say I've moved on from there.
  6. J B from Canada writes: * a place
  7. Sylvester McMonkey McBean from Ottawa, Canada writes: I had a thing like that in my workplace. I just put up with it - it's a small burden compared with the one that the poor mind-controlled creature bears. I mean, is listening to that any worse than office gossip about which 'American Idol''s hairstyle was most impressive?
  8. David C from Canada writes: I'm glad to see that the author of this article didn't get suckered into swinging at the easy one - that is: to deride all forms of religion, etc.

    The truth of the matter is that IF this co-worker wasn't a member of any religious organization, (s)he would still be in your cubicle, or following you around at lunch, just under a different pretense.

    Granted alot of these types of people are attracted to religious organizations. The lazy thing to do is to let yourself believe that all people who have a faith (yes, even evangelicals) are radical zealots who have nothing better to do than shove their beliefs in your face. From my experience, 95% of them aren't like this.
  9. Andrew Cheng from Canada writes: I agree with the befriend her advise.

    Back in school, I have an evangelical friend. Now, this person is really cool (definitely not the obnoxious type). He would love to preach to us. Everytime he does, we would always play Devil's Advocate and challenge him on everything he said (no pun intended). These discussions turned really interesting.

    If the character in the story would take the time to defend her cause, then these discussions could turn interesting. Otherwise, she would just shut her trap and never speak to you again.

    Anyway, my friend is now doing great missionary and charity work in the Dominican Republic. He's someone who actually does what he preaches. I would challenge this character to see the amount of charity work she's done lately. If the answer is 0, well, God would probably be pissed at her too.
  10. Paul Jones from kitchener, Canada writes: start preaching back, about whatever topic you like, and make sure your views on said subject are opposing. When she asks you to stop, reply that you'd like the same.
    Either that, or everytime she says something reply with my favourite line, 'When you thought of telling me that, did you honestly believe I'd care?'
  11. al goguen from victoria, Canada writes: There should be laws to stop these religious freaks to annoy co-workers or complete strangers. How about these nosy and pushing Jehovah Witnesses, walking on your property, isn`t that called trespassing? Is there already an existing law to prosecute these intruders?
  12. Steve Not an Alberta Redneck from Calgary, Canada writes: If our society was functioning properly, these groups would be so thoroughly tied up with audits and criminal prosecutions for their illegal use of their tax exempt status, that there would be no lime left to run their multi-level marketing scams.

    Be thankful for one thing. At least she is not trying to push a basement full of soap for Amway. While irritating at times, these born again types can occassionally come out with a real 'whopper', sure to keep people in stitches for years. Think of them of victims of Canada's (and especially the US's) totally ineffective educational system, that leaves vulnerable people, easily taken in by these hucksters.
  13. jim slim from cowichan valleycowican valley, Canada writes: Tell her; 'I didn't ask Christ to die for MY sins.' That seems to work for me with the JoHo's
  14. Angus S Miskers from rainy Victoria, Canada writes: FInd out which religion she is in. Many of the hardcore cultish ones, like Jehoes (Jehovah's Witlessness), Amish and Mormons have strict rules against consorting with excommunicated members. Then pick up some 'apostate' literature, written by disgruntled ex-members (alo excommunicated) and offer to share itwith them, preach right back at them, etc. This stuff is like kryptonite to True Believers! They will glare at you from a distance, walk quicker past your cubicle, and zip up tight, guaranteed. How do I know this, you ask? My parents were in the Jehoes for much of my life (now they're excommunicated - yay).
  15. Some Guy from Ottawa, Canada writes: People with these sorts of problems usually draw it to themselves. You are either to friendly or too open about your life. You should have dropped subtle hints long ago that your personal and work life a very separate. Make yourself less approachable and be more aggressive. That should clear things up.
  16. Are We Having This Conversation ? from Toronto, Canada writes: What this co-worker is doing is wrong!! I consider myself to be Christian but I do not 'preach' to my friends/co-workers because that is not my job! If he/she truly is a 'christian' then s/he should know that actions speak louder than words. What they are doing is judging people and who are we to judge others if we believe that God is the 'ultimate judge'....he/she becomes a hypocrite and gives all Christians a bad name. I will say this, if and it becomes a huge IF my friends/co-workers ask for my advice and my opinions or thoughts on something, then I would not hide my beliefs and stance on certain issues. But like I said before, my views and opinions would be made public if people ask for my help, otherwise, I am in no position to judge others and tell them how to live a righteous life when my life is not perfect and filled with flaws!! Nobody's life is perfect and I guarantee that her/his life isn't perfect either! (This person is probably a new Christian or new to the faith and therefore they believe they have to 'convert' the masses....baloney! If this person is a true Christian then the way he/she conducts themselves in the workplace will be enough testimony for others to see that this person is a person of faith! Tell this person to zip it and to move away....
  17. Nancy Wilson from N.Ontario, Canada writes: I had the same thing happen to me.
    I politely told the person that I was not religious and chose not to constantly hear about God,and she should not assume that others are not bothered by this.
    I never heard 'praise God' again,thankfully.
    Keep Religion and Religious speak at home or in Church,where it belongs.
  18. Trillian Rand from Canada writes: Try asking why she expects you to respect her opinions and values while she is seemingly unwilling to respect yours.

    Or ask why she believes you are so inherently evil. What does she suspect you are doing, have done or are capable of doing that you are in such desperate need of her salvation?

    Once you know the reasons for her attention, you will be better able to redirect her efforts.
  19. David Rodas-Wright from Ottawa, Canada writes: Perhaps I am naive, but David Eddie's comments seem highly counterproductive. Its a disingenuous and frankly unrealistic approach to take with someone who may be struggling with some deeper issues. Its always best to first deal with the problem one-on-one with this person, but you may want to start out by canvassing the opinions of others you can trust and who hold a similar reaction to yours. It is ok to do this in the work setting as long as you are respectful about the problem employee when getting advice from a co-worker. Best that that co-worker has been there for awhile because he or she may shed some light on the general feeling in the office and on how this individual may react when you let your feelings be known to her. When the time comes to addressing her conduct, it is about setting boundaries in a deliberate, respectful, and professional manner. You have a right to inform this person that you are, with respect, not interested in answering questions about your religious inclinations or sharing your opinions on related issues. Nor do you have to explain yourself to her - as long as you are polite about it and firm in stating over and over again that, 'I am just telling you that this is my boundary and I want it respected'. It’s as simple as that, but if it continues, then bring it up with a supervisor. If your employer takes issue with your complaint or reprimands you, get a new job or get a lawyer!
  20. RJ R from Canada writes: Frankly the advice provided by David Eddie is utterly ridiculous and could land you in trouble with your employer or other employees. In Canada, the bottom line is this: co-workers that direct unwanted comments or try to impose there views (political, sexual, religious, etc.) that are not work-related are harassing you. All provinces have well defined legislation (usually mirrored in most companies' personnel policies) that provides all employees protection against opinionated zealots and wing-nuts. In the majority of situations simply asking the person to stop works. If he/she doesn't, make it the employer's problem.
  21. zen rainbow from here there everywhere, Canada writes: Nothing more irriatating and obnoxious than listening to deluded evangelical Christians spewing their rote and shallow minds.
  22. Matthew Thiesen from Vancouver, Canada writes: I am sure the office has a policy on interference with others and more so a policy on subject matter which doesn't pertain to the office. Right?

    well, circle the sections and leave it on her desk every day (without being caught) until she stops.

    In the outside world you could have the same policy retyped into a bible-page-sized slip of paper and then neatly stuff it between the folds of a strategically placed 'good book' but that might cause trouble.

    You don't need this, tell her to leave you alone. She will only continue if you are not informing her that the rant is not welcome. It is a bit your fault if you do't tell her.

    More so, tell tell her you are gay, born gay. Bible-thumers usually have a huge problem with this. Soon, she will be making more of a fuss about you being gay and you can go 'upstairs' for a difinitive reason. She will probably get fired for homo-hating and you will be doing a justice for all.

    Or you could record everything she says and send a copy of it to headquarters. Someone in HR will freak.

    Lastly, you could just tell her that this sort of thing is not for the office, make a time for it outside (record this), then tell her to stuff-it.
  23. jim slim from cowichan valleycowican valley, Canada writes: Ask them 'What are YOU doing about all the pedophiles in your organization?' That seems to keep them from coming back to me.
  24. Rain Couver from Canada writes: It doesn't matter the denomination, I tell people like this that I am Jewish (I am) and they never bother me again.
  25. Mr. Justice from Canada writes: Bear in mind that your co-worker ONLY deals in cliches, not actual 'thinking' (this is only for godless heathens, doncha know). So don't get too upset when a rational discussion is out of the question.

    These folks are trained to deal with genuine contrary responses from you (and even, uh, 'questions') by turning the discussion into an ad hominem attack on YOU: 'Why are you saying this ? What's really going on with you ?' etc., etc.), or they simply change the subject. Am I right ? They are NOT trained to have an actual adult discussion, and neither are their ministers/priests/shamans/poobahs.

    If you want to know more about this type of critter, go to the web and look up the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual - IV, sec. 301.81 ('Narcissistic Personality Disorder'). The symptoms fit your co-worker to a 'T', I'll bet . . . And it all boils down to: 'God speaks to me. I do His Will. Therefore, I am important.'

    And bear in mind that these folks DO look upon you as a chump.
  26. A Big Black Dog With Two Tails from Leduc County ex St. John's, Canada writes: I bet the scenario is that they ran into each other in that shoe store, which is a long way from stalking. And besides that, a short conversation centred on 'shopping again' sounds like chiding, not chastizing and definitely not 'a pouncing and chewing out'. And besides that, if people don't have the social cubes to tell peope to PFO (politely of course, with follow-up ennunciation as required) well then they've got some learning and/or growing up to do.
  27. michael luger from montreal, Canada writes: tell her what she needs to hear:

    If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain. James 1:26

    ask her not to speak to you again on the matter till her heart is pure; that should get you some well deserved rest.
  28. Mr. Justice from Canada writes: Tell your co-worker to investigate being a 'Congressional intern' for born-again Bible-believin' Christian US Senator Larry Craig:

    http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/02/29/letterman-lists-what-larr_n_89136.html
  29. The one and only Billy Shears from Canada writes: I disagree with David Eddie on this one. When people see the new person getting close to the obnoxious one, they're probably more inclined to think 'Mr Obnoxious has inherited a lackey who doesn't know any better'.

    The better response is to be straightforward and say 'Look - what I believe is my business. I'm here to work, not to be preached to. I don't have to answer to you about how I spend my money, and I won't ask you to answer for the church's misdeeds.'
  30. gordon davies from Victoria B.C., Canada writes: Reading through the comments it seems that too many make excuses for the preaching & this because YOU let them & your their a target ever more.
  31. leo bloom from radisson, sask, Canada writes: I agree with David Rodas-Wright - set boundaries in a deliberate, respectful manner. I think often-times, people can get over zealous when they stumble upon some eureka-flash moment in their lives. You see this with people who discover the 'Secret' say, or are touched by some other lifestyle guru. Just wait and see how many 'missionaries' are flogging the good news of Ekhart Tolle in the coming weeks now that Oprah has annointed him. So yes, many times it is the first blush and rush of their dernier cri that irks us. Not always though. Sometimes, I think particularly with hard-core evangelical Christians and the cult movements - J.W.'s, Mormons, et al, pushy and persistent proselytizing is a standard edict...so do as David suggests. Lastly, I am now convinced that any story in the Globe, whether it falls in Life or Arts or the World sections - if it even hints at Christianity, brings out the nastiest of trolls - boobs like the Zen Rainbow: 'deluded evangelical Christians spewing their rote and shallow minds'...rote and shallow minds? What does that even mean? And then you get the totally perplexed like jim slim there, 'What are YOU doing about all the pedophiles in your organization?' And there are legions like him - the frantic and the fried who always seem to need/want to bring any column with a Christian, especially Catholic theme, into the dark realms of their own closet psychosis. Now this is a mild instance - wait until the article names the Catholic Church or the Pope - dosen't matter if it refers to politics or new carpets for the Holy Office - jim slim and his lurking like will be out in force. Cheap tricks - cheap thrills I guess.
  32. Kevin Dooley from Canada writes: Several posters and the article writer appear to have missed the central problem. This person is not annoying because they belong to a particular religious group. She's annoying because she has no boundaries, and that is almost invariably a sign of serious underlying psychological problems. It's entirely likely, in fact, that her religion is the only thing keeping her even remotely grounded.

    The best thing to do would be to explain that her comments are inappropriate for the workplace and politely ask her to behave in a more professional manner. My guess is that she'll explode into an emotional fireball (underscoring the point), and providing an opening to suggest psychological counseling - perhaps she should talk to her pastor about her problems. Bottom line, though, is that this person is very troubled and needs help.

    Befriending her is a very bad idea in particular, because crazy people tend to suck you into their crazy worlds. Force her to take responsibility, or at the very least to behave in a more appropriate and professional manner.
  33. azif uno from Canada writes: Alistair McLaughlin, your solution, while amusing to me and others, could backfire with a charge of sexual harassment. The prostletyzing evangelists tend to be a humorless lot. (I suspect that they secretly hold the view that the universe is a colossal joke on the part of a comedic god, and that they are the punch line.) In dealing with this person at work you need to firmly and clearly state the following: 'Look, I have my beliefs, and you have yours. My belliefs are personal and I do not wish to hear yours. If you persist in forcing your beliefs on me, I will have no option but to report you to our superiors (personnel office, human resources) for harassing me during working hours.' If that doesn't stop her, report her. If your superiors do nothing, speak to your province's labor board or employment standards. If that doesn't result in her stopping, hire a lawyer. Outside of work you can be less constrained in your response. when she speaks to you turn to her and in a loud and very outraged voice say 'YOU WANT ME TO WHAT?' Then walk away quickly and don't look back. You probably won't have to apply this treatment more than once, she won't be following you any more. She may also begin avoiding you at work after that as well.
  34. Ed Anger from Canada writes: The religous ones are always the horniest.
  35. George BrownIII from Christmas Island writes: A collegue use to preach to me and when I requested equal time to preach my religion to him he never returned.
  36. Brian Mulroney from Canada writes: Just tell her to 'STFU'.... ffs!
  37. Mr. Justice from Canada writes: Ed Anger from Canada . . . Are suggesting that our inquirer offer to give the co-worker 'a profound religious experience' ?
  38. Kim Philby from Ottawa, Canada writes: leo bloom: 'the frantic and the fried'? 'dark realms of their own closet psychosis'? 'his lurking like'?

    Maybe you need a reality check of your own and stop trowelling on the purple prose. People have good reasons to be angry with the Catholic church as an institution, and every right to express that anger.
  39. C M from Calgary, Canada writes: Reading this makes me so happy to be a stay-at-home mom, and not stuck in an office with all the nutters anymore!! However, when I was working outside the house I had a couple of times told certain co-workers that I insisted on keeping my relationship with them strictly professional - that usually did the trick. If it didn't, then it was talk to the boss time.....
  40. J W from Canada writes: Rain Couver- I laughed when I read your comment because we used to have Jehovah's witnesses that kept comming to our home (even when we asked them to stop). Finally, my mom told them we were jewish (she is but the rest of the family is not) and they never came back again!!!
  41. Eric the Red from Uzbekistan writes: Writing 666 on your forehead prior in red marker prior to her entering your cubicle and then greeting her with a lopsided smile usually works.
  42. Harbinger from Out West from Prince George, Canada writes: For more than thirty years I have had a very little sign near my front door. It says, 'We shoot every third Jehovah's Witness. The second one just left'. Worked wonderfully for me all these years.
  43. Ursula Seawitch from Canada writes: Having grown up in a religious community with a distinct 'them and Us' mentality, I have no tolerance whatsoever with religious zealots. There are always a few members of every congregation with 'Holier than thou attitudes' and boundary issues.

    When my mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer she had quite a few phone calls and visits from these zealots determined to pray over her and be sure she was saved. My father reacted in his grief and anger by closing the funeral to only close relatives. No members of the community were allowed, and there was no religious service. My mother has been dead for almost 20 years and I am still bothered by this.

    I hope a few religious enthusiasts will read these comments and see themselves. Please leave people in peace with their own thoughts and prayers.

    Your answer was good, Mr. Eddy. However, I would not be capable of befriending some one like that. In fact I would probably tell them this story and hope they beat a hasty retreat.
  44. K Kal from toronto, Canada writes: i knew someone like this in high school, preachy s.o.b.

    i just told him to go f himself a few times and he got lost

    dont need human rights code/talk to supervisor/tattle tale blah blah, just defend yourself!
  45. david eddie from toronto, Canada writes: Sam Salmon from Vancouver-by-the-Sea, Canada writes: A thin litle piece of fiction-you mean people actiually get paid to write pap like this?

    yep
  46. leo bloom from radisson, sask, Canada writes: Maybe so Kim Philby, maybe so. Obviously you do, but rattling your skeletons does not constitute a siren call to slam the Church...ooops...is that more 'purple prose'? This is a life style column - this is a story about somebody being hectored by a Christian promoter. Do you think that the issue of pedophiles in the Church is warranted here? Then why not troll the Maple Leafs threads? Why not wear that sandwich board in there? The old Gardens was a haven for child abuse....
  47. Mellow Drama from Canada writes: I've had this happen in my work place. I just told them that their behavior was inappropriate for the workplace. That was the end of that. Failing that, you could always invite them to come and participate in your coven. Mention the part about sacrificing the innocent to the lord of darkness and see where that takes you.
  48. Janice Cooper from West Kootenays, British Columbia, Canada writes: Buy a bumper sticker or lapel pin that says 'Born OK the first time'. That works.
  49. Lemmy Nothor from BCN, Spain writes: When someone starts preaching at me, I get naked...it usually ends the session right there.
  50. Richard Hawrelak from Sarnia, Canada writes: When I first joined Dow Chemical as a young engineer, my supervisor was a JW convert. His wife, born into the JW faith, said she could hardly talk to him about their faith because he was so sure of himself. He conducted bible study classes in his home. His wife would put on a fantastic spread and many of us attended just so that we could eat well and argue (split hairs) with him. There were six of us who had the split-hair routine down pretty good. The night would end up in laughter and our boss marched on. Even today, at a yearly Dow retirement dinner, we will meet and talk over old times. My parting shot is always ... 'Enjoy your veggy meal.' This was based on his arguement that 'Only God can give and take blood.' Our split-hair arguement was then, 'OK, if so, all JWs should be vegetarians.' He ate his steak rare ... sigh ... We are still best of friends.
  51. K Kal from toronto, Canada writes: wow a lot of tattle tales on this topic 'waah waah tell the boss, get hr, harassment boohoo' aaahhhh cry me a river

    people calling this a form of harassment are SOFT
    its more like a running joke, think of it as entertainment, especially when you can mess with their heads by simply disagreeing with all of their points or saying that you love the devil or some nonsense like that (i personally like eric the red's 666 on the forehead idea)

    the best is to time how long u can egg them on before they realize you are just egging them on. then if it happens again, try to beat your record

    record for me was about 20 minutes lol, evetually the person went away realizing that i was just messing with them and that i didnt really care about a word they had to say
  52. K Kal from toronto, Canada writes: Lemmy Nothor from BCN, Spain writes: When someone starts preaching at me, I get naked...it usually ends the session right there.

    LOL!
  53. Karlheinz Pfacharfaster from Never more lucid, Canada writes: My advice is dye your hair black, and when at the office wear a pentacle necklace, and frequently proclaim: 'Thank Satan that in this modern day and age that we are free to believe in any religion we want!'

    That should set them back a bit. Then, if they give you a hard time, march straight to your nearest Human Rights Tribunal and wait for your settlement to roll in.
  54. Mellow Drama from Canada writes: maple leaf from Toronto, Canada writes:
    Knock her down, stand on her neck, and urinate on her. While you are doing this, intone, ' I baptize thee in the name of Satan'.

    Love it! That one works real with with the door-to-door JWs.
  55. Kay Ay from Canada writes: So, are you worried people will think you aren't 'nice' because I'm unclear as to why you let her lecture you in a public place... I would have asked the staff to escort her from the premises since she wasn't going to buy anything.

    Tell her to pray for you silently if she needs to but you are going to file a harassment complaint with the higher ups. You have your own beliefs and will only discuss work related matters with her.
  56. leo bloom from radisson, sask, Canada writes: For Kim Philby I shoud have added to 'Obviously, you do'...and I hope that you are one day released from it, I hope that you can find some inner peace'...but the purple prose stands. Have a good weekend you old spook. ; )
  57. Watcher of the skies from Montreal, Canada writes: Only if she can guarantee she'll be part of the 144,000...
  58. My eyes are open, Are yours? from Canada writes: Shoe shopping twice in recorded memory? Can't be a guy.
  59. Richard Hawrelak from Sarnia, Canada writes: My mom raised me in her RC faith. Her family raised her as Greek Orthodox. My RC priest was my first hockey coach. My mom played tennis with Sammy Levine, owner of a clothing store across the street. Many a night, my mom, Sammy, and Mons. Lyons, would argue all aspects of religion. I sat and listened in wonder. Today, I still remember how Mons. Lyons showed me how to go into the corner after a puck. I was right-handed. 'Drop your left hand 6 inches off the end of your stick. Tuck your left arm tight against the left side of your body, with the butt-end sticking out slightly on your back side. If you feel your opponent on your back, give him a good jab with your butt-end.' My response always was, 'And how many Hail Marys and Our Fathers will I have to do after confession?' His response would be 'If you won the puck, none.'

    My daughter has it right, she attends all kinds of religeous ceremonies and enjoys them all. She is all faith. My son? He was my best player in bantam and won all battles for the puck in the corners. Thx to Mons. Lyons.
  60. Alistair McLaughlin from Canada writes: How much of a problem is this really? Before filing a complaint, tell her to pi$$ off. Just like that. The next time she starts with her, 'You know, Jesus wouldn't approve of.....' just say, 'PI$$ OFF.' I once worked with a very attractive female who filed a harassment complaint against a male coworker who kept asking her out. He was a social tool, and way too persistent, that much was obvious. But she never once told him 'no'. It was always 'maybe next week', 'I'm not sure about tomorrow.' 'I'm busy this weekend.' 'I'll let you know.' A simple, 'PI$$ OFF' would have done it. Instead she complained and got the guy suspended. Before you complain to your boss, try the two magic words. They're as effective as they are beautiful, and leave no room for ambiguity or ambivilant interpretations.
  61. Alistair McLaughlin from Canada writes: Steve Not a Red Neck, you sound like you're promoting religious persecution. Sic the auditors on religious people? Or just born again Christians? Either way, you are one sick puppy. Get help.
  62. Mr. Justice from Canada writes: ' Watcher of the skies from Montreal, Canada writes: Only if she can guarantee she'll be part of the 144,000...'

    Good idea. . . . But better to get her to put it in writing, eh ?
  63. jim slim from cowichan valleycowican valley, Canada writes: For Leo Bloom: In either of my posts I did not mention the Catholic Church - somehow YOU did.

    I was actually referring to JW'S...The Catholic church is not alone in the sins of pedophilia.

    I suggest you go to SilentLambs.org if you want to know more about how widespread this problem is.

    Your response read a lot more into what I wrote then what I actually intended - it was to rebuff preaching fans is all.

    What is 'purple prose'? anyway?> Written by Prince?
  64. scott thomas from Canada writes: Tell her that God is dead.
  65. John Hidden from Puntarenas, Costa Rica writes: Well. i am an atheist, and these people really grind my guts.

    Funny when you tell them your position, how they really are taken aback by an atheist actually voicing his opinion.

    They still try... and get a look from me as they immediatly excuse themselves... with an 'I know you don't believe in that but..: and move away
  66. El Christador from Vancouver, Canada writes: Maybe if you were to hand her a religious tract...?

    http://www.geocities.com/tribhis/cthulhutract.html
  67. Clear Thinker from Toronto, Canada writes: I've had this happen to me, usually some liberal type who goes on and on about how evil conservatives are and such. I just nod and feel pity for him. Must be hard living in such a spiteful and hateful way with only the Globe and Mail anonymous message boards available to spew hate at Christians. Seriously most of you need to get a life. Is your life so bad that you have to attack and make threats against religious observers to make yourselves feel important. I weep for any children you have.
  68. Jennifer Rollison from Canada writes: Clear, I haven't read anyone 'spewing' hatred at Christians. They just don't like people preaching to them...it is rather presumptuous to preach to someone at work, don't you think? Try not to be so sensitive...

    And, for those who slag the JW's, why not just talk to them, or politely tell them you aren't interested? Honey works better than vinegar and they are fellow humans whether you believe what they preach or not. I once had a dad and young daughter come to my house...I told them I was Jewish (I'm not but I do look the part) and the poor fellow empathized with me about our shared persecution. He then thanked me for being so polite and they were on there way. No harm, no foul...
  69. Jennifer Rollison from Canada writes: P.S. Clear, I'm an atheist and I feel sorry for you...
  70. Enlightened Ape from Canada writes: Clear Thinker from Toronto, Canada writes: I've had this happen to me, usually some liberal type who goes on and on about how evil conservatives are and such. I just nod and feel pity for him. Must be hard living in such a spiteful and hateful way with only the Globe and Mail anonymous message boards available to spew hate at Christians. Seriously most of you need to get a life. Is your life so bad that you have to attack and make threats against religious observers to make yourselves feel important. I weep for any children you have.
    --------

    No one is attacking or making threats, just criticizing. You just made that up to make yourself feel better. Criticizing religion is fair game- just as criticizing art, movies, sports, politics, etc is fair game. If you're offended by the criticism that's your problem. Either defend your beliefs or get over it.
  71. Mr. Justice from Canada writes: Unclear Thinker: . . . It must be such FUN to live in a world where you're able to convince yourself that people having different views that you have = "attacking and making threats against" religious folks . You must feel very important and "oppressed".

    Seriously, you need to get a life. I weep for any children you have.
  72. Mike Sumners from Toronto, Canada writes: Just explain to this poor woman that "god" does not exist, jesus is a Mexican name and that she is deluded and should seek help.
    Another fun thing to do with religious people is make sexual passes at them or lace your conversation with the most vulgar profanity you can think of. I do that all the time with mormons, jehovah's witnesses and whatever other nut jobs try to force their cults on me; it can be quite amusing!
    Bottom line is don't let this nut set the agenda for you at work every day; you set the agenda and push back twice as hard as she pushes you. Try this: deface a bible and walk over to her desk, give it to her and watch her freak out and get escorted out of the building.
  73. B. Ramey from Canada writes: So why do you think the universe put in this job? Had other people preached at you but didn't do anything about it? To befriend this person is to join the club.

    If you don't want to join the club you have three choices:

    1. Ignore. And maybe she will go away. I doubt it but what have you got to lose except 100 or so lunch hours?
    2. Be assertive and establish your boundaries which by the sounds of things you haven't done in your life. So give it a try. You may be surprised.
    3. Move on to another job that is a better cultural fit.

    Don't befriend or kick it upstairs - both will accomplish nothing. If you are tempted to kick it upstairs better make sure upstairs isn't on the preaching team too.

    Befriending is about the stupidist and creepiest thing you can do.

    Good luck.
  74. Mr. Justice from Canada writes: Advice:

    You have NO responsibility to help this creep with her mental problems.
    We've joked a lot about it, but people with her sort of problem won't respond to rationality; it's their rejection of rationality that is a precondition to their condition. You need to report her to a superior, and tell the superior that your co-worker's mental problems are interfering with your ability to do your work. If your superior won't do anything, go to THAT person's superior, and so on.

    If thsi creep IS your superior . . . YIKES !
  75. Alistair McLaughlin from Ottawa, Canada writes: A few things that have worked for me over the years when dealing with troublesome co-workers:

    1. Pepper spray

    2. Keeping a severed goat's head in my cubicle. If they ask, I just tell them, "It's for tonight."

    3. Feigning a seizure every time they broach a subject I don't like.

    4. Keeping a compressed air emergency marine horn on my desk - for use whenever target individual attempts conversation.

    5. Having a pair of handcuffs handy. When target starts talking, interrupt with, "Hang on a sec. Can you put these on? I want to try something."
  76. diane marie from calgary, Canada writes: I don't like the advice given. It might be politically astute but it's insincere. Nancy Wilson's suggestion has my vote. Just politely decline to be preached to, followed, etc. If, after a few increasingly firm requests, the behaviour continues, I would just make the polite but firm threat that I would take the matter upstairs as a matter of harassment. But then, that's why I'm self-employed - I don't like office politics.
  77. D Mores from GTA, Canada writes: poison her
  78. The Wight from Canada writes: I've always found that an unexpected right cross works wonders. They never expect it and a right cross usually packs enough punch that they walk away thoroughly remembering the day they decided to proselytize to their co-workers.

    To Jennifer Rollison ... you're an atheist? Geez, now I'm REALLY jealous of your husband.

    Sigh.
  79. Mr. Justice from Canada writes: Alistair: . . . Your comment reminds me of a comic who said that he deals with frequent at-the-door religious folks as follows:

    He keeps a large knife inside the house, near the front door; he has painted most of the blade red. When he sees them coming up the walk, he takes off all his clothes and grabs the knife; then he opens the door, knife innocently in his hand, and says:

    "Look -- could you come back in a couple of hours ? You see, we haven't finished sacrificing the virgin."
  80. Prairie Boy from Canada writes: I had one like that. I said God talks to me. He said to tell you to get to work. Ok blunt but effective.
  81. Runaway 08 from Wet Vancouver, Canada writes: The easiest thing to do is tell her you don't want to hear this. Keep repeating. If it's about shopping, you don't want to discuss it. And turn or walk away.

    No need to be rude or engage in sill theological discussions. Just say, no.

    I dislike intensely the suggestion that the office ought to make rules.... Make your own rules. You don't discuss religion, lifestyle or finances with anyone but your family.

    But for consistency, you might have to foreswear office gossip too. Stay out of cliques and avoid criticising anyone and people will stop bringing you news of their little peccadilloes.
  82. Malba Talban from Canada writes: Equally bad is the atheist who can't say a single sentence without "educating" everyone about evolution. I put in quotes because I couldn't care less about it, whether it is or it isn't what he says. Of course, there are those who put on a smart pose and heartily agree that this matter should be widely preached for education's sake. But, there are those who do think that knowing more or less about said theory won't make a single bit of difference in their lives. This renders my educated friend an equal pain in the neck as the preachers. I wish he and his fellow theorists (Darwin included) would move to the Galapagos and shut the hell up.
  83. Dennis sinneD. from Calgary, Canada writes:

    Show her your bits whenever she comes by.

    Or, make like a monkey and toss poo at her...
  84. Marieke Rummens from Calgary, Canada writes: A better way to get rid of JW's at the door: set up fake satanic altar within sight of the front door, and have a chemistry student make a "special" black candle for you, with different metal compounds in thin layers. Then open the door with "I'm sorry, we worship Satan here and find that works quite well for us...and there's the candle, big flame, then small flame, then big flame, then small flame...

    Yes, I knew some students who were living a block away from a JW temple, true story.
  85. diane marie from calgary, Canada writes: It's not complicated. When the religious proselytizers show up at my door, I simply tell them that I am determinedly non-religious, that they have no hope of converting me, that I don't wish to waste their time, and then I wish them (with a warm smile) a nice day and good luck. That has always ended it, and on a civil note.

    Little story, though. My late neighbour - an elderly, religious gentleman - told me one day over the fence that the good book said that white birds are pure and black birds are evil. With a smile, I asked him what could be said of magpies (the half black/half white local bird) - that they have good days and bad days? That was the end of that religious discussion. The same neighbour complained about the quantity of leaves a particular tree was depositing on his lawn - chain-saw fan that he was, he mused about cutting yet another tree down. Not another tree, I thought, so I said, "well, if the Good L**D wanted us to have perfect, green broadloom outside, HE would undoubtedly have provided it. The tree still stands and our neighbour, on the whole a good neighbour, has since met his maker.
  86. Raymond P from Canada writes: Leave some Atheist literature on the person's work space every day for a week.
  87. Joe V from Canada writes: Lawsuit. It'll clean up the workplace real quick. If they fire you, launch one over that too. And then a third if there's any slander.
  88. Mr. Justice from Canada writes: Even worse are the "theorists" who insist that the theory that the earth revolves around the sun -- contrary to what the Bible teaches, uh, sometimes -- is actually "true". Go figure.
  89. K S from Toronto, Canada writes: Best thing to do is totally ignore the person. What they want is a dialogue, to spew their nonsense and try to prove that they are right. Or tell them to go to hell.
  90. crazy fiddler from Canada writes: Some of the best entertainment I've seen on these posts in a long time! Some truly inspired comments, and for that, I give thanks! LMAO
  91. Russ Barth from Ottawa, Canada writes: Just make fun of religious people for having "imaginary friends".

    "So.... an invisible giant lives in the sky, and he gets mad at things I do and think?... No THAT isn't absurd or anything."

    Tell your evangelical co-worker to get their head examined.
  92. Wally Grisold from Toronto, Canada writes: Harbinger out west, I like that every 3rd JW gets it. Try this one, sorry but you got me at a bad time. I'm just on my way to donate a pint of blood. It works all the time at home and on the street.
  93. phil reinders from Calgary, Canada writes: Interesting irony in this article - a co-worker trying to convert another, but Eddie's advice is to do exactly what the writer is complaining about.

    He notes, "With enemies you have to convert." He's suggesting to do the very same thing that the co-worker insists is a problem for her.

    So in the end, aren't we all trying to convert one another to the way we see things? The question is then which of our world-views has the best resources to respect and care for those with differing truth perspectives.
  94. Paul Chapman from Laputa, Canada writes: I've never had to use more than 'I'm an atheist, please go away.' If someone more persistent came along, I'd just report them to HR as disrupting my work. No need to get nasty unless they are.
    • Posted 01/03/08 at 9:39 AM EDT |