Ted Haggard: Another Demon In Deacon’s Clothes
By Daniel DiRito | Related entries in General Politics, In The News, Religion, SexualityI’ve long argued that most forms of extremism harkens back to one’s own psychological issues. I’m reminded of the psychological theory that suggests that the psyche is similar to a tube of toothpaste. The gist of the argument is that a tube of toothpaste works well when the cap is removed and pressure is applied in order to push the paste from the container. However, if the cap is placed on the tube and the same pressure is applied, toothpaste will eventually ooze out from numerous newly created and unintended openings. The psyche functions similarly in that if we allow our identity to flow naturally and resist the societal pressure to “cap it” we function normally…but if we attempt to hide our identity…meaning to “cap it” in order to keep it hidden (whether that be from shame, fear, or some other factor)…it will escape and manifest itself in numerous dysfunctional behaviors.
Over the years, it seems to me that religion and religious service has served as one of the prevailing mechanisms for the capping of identity. Few are unaware of the Catholic Church’s problem with the molestation of children by those within the ranks of its clergy. Numerous other religious types have fallen from grace when their actions have been exposed and therefore their demons revealed. Perhaps Jimmy Swaggart is one of the most notable given his meltdown after it was disclosed that he was hiring prostitutes for years. There are many others including Jim Bakker who found himself imprisoned and more recently we learned that Ralph Reed was closely tied to the Abramoff influence peddling scandal.
Today, we’re learning about another possible scandal of monumental proportions. A Denver television station, KUSA Channel 9, reported last night on the accusation that Ted Haggard, the pastor of one of the countries largest mega-churches as well as the President of the National Association of Evangelicals, has conducted a three year “sexual business” relationship with a Denver homosexual male escort.
DENVER - A gay man and admitted male escort claims he has had an ongoing sexual relationship with a well-known Evangelical pastor from Colorado Springs.
Haggard is married with five children and an outspoken critic of gay marriage.
Jones broke his silence Wednesday morning on talk radio.
In an exclusive interview Wednesday night, Haggard denied the claims and told 9NEWS he is prepared for his own church to investigate them.
“I did not have a homosexual relationship with a man in Denver,” said Haggard. “I am steady with my wife. I’m faithful to my wife.”
Jones started talking to 9 Wants to Know two months ago. He claims Haggard has been paying him for sex over the past three years, even though Haggard preaches that homosexuality is a sin.
Jones also claims Haggard used methamphetamine in his presence on several occasions.
“People may look at me and think what I’ve done is immoral, but I think I had to do the moral thing in my mind and that is expose someone who is preaching one thing and doing the opposite behind everybody’s back,” said Jones.
Former NBC News anchor Tom Brokaw profiled Haggard in 2005 in a series on mega-churches. Haggard was also listed by Time magazine as one of the 25 most influential Evangelicals in America last year.
While one cannot conclude that this accusation will prove to be true, the man bringing the allegation has been in the Denver and Colorado Springs area for some time. His advertisements for services have appeared in local gay publications for a number of years and it wouldn’t make a lot of sense for him to come forward without sufficient and accurate information to prove his claims. That is simply speculation on my part but it would seem like a huge mistake if his story is a fabrication. My hunch is that the information will bear the coming scrutiny and that the pastor’s secrets are about to be exposed.
I’m going to say some things now that may anger a number of people…but I’m doing so because I think its important if we are ever going to get past the prejudice and the bigotry that surrounds us each day. People of faith are being manipulated by people who seek power. Fear and hatred are very powerful tools and many of those who hold themselves up as religious leaders have simply realized as much. We all have a tendency to seek confirmation of our beliefs and nothing is more satisfying than having that confirmation be as absolute as possible. Religion has long been the means to that end.
I remember something my grandmother used to say when anyone sought to sing the praises of the church…she said the person behind that pulpit is no different that any other man or woman…they are human and that means they are flawed and they don’t have the ability to know more nor do they know more than anyone sitting in the pews. They simply want those in the pews to believe as much and in exchange they will affirm your beliefs and tell you what you want to hear…that’s the basis of the relationship and that’s how it works and why it succeeds.
To read the full article at Thought Theater…link here:
This entry was posted on Friday, November 3rd, 2006 and is filed under General Politics, In The News, Religion, Sexuality. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
November 3rd, 2006 at 1:03 am
They always say that being yourself is crucial to your happiness. But there are some people who we don’t want to be themselves. Hitler, for example probably would have benefited personally along with society if he had capped his personality.
November 3rd, 2006 at 1:08 am
Brilliant commentary - very insightful and filled with truth
about human nature.
November 3rd, 2006 at 1:15 am
Your grievance seems to be with the rightwing form of Christianity that gets so much play in the media and so much love from the Republican party. But your brush strokes are a little wide and I sense you feel that all those with faith are walking a dangerous path. And that’s the problem with this sort of secularist critique of religion–you intend to condemn one specific sect of one religion but you end up alienating all people of faith. I don’t think that’s you intention, I just think that non-believers have a difficult time seeing the distinction between someone like Haggard and the vast majority of Christians who disagree with the man’s take on our religion.
I completely reject the assertion that religion surpresses or represses identity–although reading that you went to Catholic school and are gay gives me some insight into why you might feel this way (I can’t imagine that was a fun experience for you). For me and for many, many people of faith, our religion is a fully functioning part of our identity. There isn’t a toothpaste-effect there. In fact, faith can be the force that removes the cap–giving people insight into who they are and who they wish to be.
But your comments on the corrosive effects of power are dead on. I have often argued that the problem with the mating of religion and politics is not that it gives politicians another source for demogougery (they never run out of sources), it’s that it makes religion about power. Christianity is not about attaining power. It’s about releasing it. But that key element is perverted the moment politics gets involved.
Anyway, an interesting read. Thanks.
November 3rd, 2006 at 1:44 am
How could you reject God, Dan? Might demons have overtaken YOU? You fall back on the term “humanity” so often, it’s as if you’re filling that void (Godlessness) with the only term you know. ALL of us are sinners, but were made in God’s image. Seek HIS approval (not a pastor’s or priest’s) and He will make Himself known to you again. He WILL bless you abundantly when you resume communication.
P.S. Sounds as if your grandmother would be giving you the same advice. God rest her soul if she has passed on.
November 3rd, 2006 at 2:13 am
I think it’s a little early to be condemning Haggard. And I think calling him a demon is extremely inappropriate.
And yes, it’s a good commentary, but please try to stay away from the politics of guilty until proven guilty. That kind of stuff is so uninteresting.
November 3rd, 2006 at 4:12 am
Alan,
My “grievance” isn’t relegated to religious leaders of any particular denomination nor can it be isolated therein. Anyone that seeks to define humanity to their liking and that does so couched in whatever authority they choose would draw my criticism. I don’t begrudge anyone’s faith…in fact I have an admiration for those who embrace it. However, when one’s faith leads one to seek to institutionalize the tenets that come with that faith, I no longer view that as faith and I then choose to reject it. That doesn’t make me right or wrong…it simply suggests that I be allowed my beliefs without the threat of having them invalidated or, worse yet, legislated against.
As to religion and identity…again I have no objection to anyone identifying with religion. On the other hand, I object to having the beliefs of any religion imposed upon society and when I witness such an effort it serves to invalidate the faith to which that individual or that particular group subscribes. Simply stated, “knowing” god is an act of faith not an act of knowledge and therefore it shouldn’t be imposed or inserted into what I would call the social contract…governance if you will. You see it isn’t me who want’s to “cap” anyone…and conversely I don’t want anyone to attempt to “cap” me. We’re all entitled to face our mortality as we see fit…and if one wants to make the concept of an afterlife part of one’s identity, so be it…but for society to function fairly a broader latitude of acceptance should be reciprocated.
John,
I haven’t rejected god…that would require a belief that he exists. No, I’m not “possessed” by demons unless the embrace of humanity as sacred meets your criteria. One cannot fill oneself with humanity…we are humanity. I understand that you believe we are made in gods image but I could argue conversely…that we frequently seek to make god in our image…and then impose that likeness across the board upon that which we do know…humanity.
I am blessed…but in my own way…and while I grant you your beliefs, grant me mine without judgment and I will reciprocate. I am not here to convince or to be convinced. I enjoy debate and dialogue but only premised on the goal that we’re all committed to seeking and finding more “truth”…whatever that may turn out to be. Faith is not fact yet I accept those who have it and that is as it should be…and therefore so is the reciprocal.
Justin,
Perhaps you misunderstand the posting. I haven’t stated that Mr. Haggard is guilty of the allegations made against him…in fact I make a point to say as much. Notwithstanding, my commentary and the title of my posting are a separate indictment of Mr. Haggard and his teachings as well as the teachings of many others who use religion to divide, judge, and elevate.
This current incident merely provides the entrée to this commentary. You’re free to conflate the two distinct issues but I’m not comfortable with the attribution you infer. You’re also free to disagree with my “demon” characterization…but if you so choose, please address your arguments to the points and issues I’ve broached rather than making an out of hand dismissal of the posting as “inappropriate” and “uninteresting”.
Thanks to all for your thoughtful comments. Much appreciated!
Daniel
November 3rd, 2006 at 6:27 am
This so-called journalism is the usual stuff they dish up when those with limited ability want to be noticed. Oh My God it’s sensationalism. So what’s else is new?? In truth the story wouldn’t be worth a nats arse if the name of a renowned preacher wasn’t used. The man is innocent until proven guilty stop jumping on your hippocritical bandwagon. I can make accusations about anyone including you at any time. Do we automatically presume your guilt. And poo poo you haven’t stated that mr haggard is guilty and you enhance the point in saying as much yet your diatribe uses his name in the only effort you have to make somebody read such a sidewinder. Jones says one thing Haggard says another. Deuce. So prove it otherwise Get out of the gutter, Get a life or better still get a real job.
November 3rd, 2006 at 7:14 am
Well Haggard has admitted to some of the allegations through his replacement pastor. Check your news sources, the reports of his admissions are now coming through…
November 3rd, 2006 at 9:04 am
Once again we see an egomaniacal religious figure being a total ass. How consistent.
People, when will you wake up and realize that NOTHING means more to these “leaders” than POWER. Nothing; not compassion, not peace, not fairness to others, NOTHING means as much as POWER.
Power over sheep like people. And who is more gullible than the average “conservative” churchgoer?
November 3rd, 2006 at 9:06 am
“I haven’t stated that Mr. Haggard is guilty of the allegations made against him…”
So disingenuous of a writer who entitles his piece:
“Ted Haggard: Another Demon In Deacon’s Clothes”
Yeah, you say he’s not yet proven guilty but you’ve condemned him already.
November 3rd, 2006 at 9:12 am
When in the public eye, you will and must expect scrutiny, however, both men risk a higher degree of scrutiny because of the scenario, regardless, the investigations and facts will prove out, and speculation does no good. We may all comment or give input, but these men know the truth within themselves, accusations & denials, will eventually prove out. Afford them the benefit of doubt, until the facts are proven. I know, it sells newspapers, it makes for great reporting, but neither man needs to be disrespected w/ non-proven slander, give them respect on both sides and avoid pre-condemning, pre-blaming and pre-faulting them. The most important thing we all must consider, are their loved ones, and throwing daggers, sometimes hurts those innocents within shot…
November 3rd, 2006 at 9:17 am
You may have heard this before, however each and every time one of these instances occur, I am reinforced in my belief that God created a beautiful Earth, turned it over in good condition to us Dummies, and literally said,” Good luck, go for it, I’m outta here!”
God must be very busy to let us do what we do to ourselves.
November 3rd, 2006 at 9:56 am
Have any of you seen “Jesus Camp”? This news was no surprise to me after seeing his brief but creepy appearance in that film. In fact, all the subjects of the movie got to see it before it was released to the public, and everyone approved of their portrayal in the film — except Haggard. Instead he launched a huge PR campaign to boycott the movie. Seems like he has a lot of fear, and something he feels he needs to hide. Sad.
November 3rd, 2006 at 10:05 am
It’s a lot easier to believe people are being brainwashed than it is to believe they actually have good reasons for believing as they do. Disagree with these people all you want, but it’s bad for society when one segment decides the other is not just mistaken but too stupid to even know better.
Daniel,
Religious groups have the right to ask that their beliefs be part of society just as much as secular groups have that right — and you have no right to be free of their requests (although you do have the right to ignore them or offer a retort). Just because a belief comes from a religion does not automatically make it more or less valid. Nor is it right to assume religious believers are anymore prone to brainwashing than believers in any secular ideology. Or that those beliefs, because they are religious, are inherrently more oppressive.
In a democracy, all groups have an equal right to try and influence the majority. There’s something very disquieting about the idea that religious groups have less right to be involved in politics because somehow their views are less valid or more harmful. When abolishionists found their views through their religion and “imposed” those views on the nation, was that wrong–just religious brainwashing? When anti-globalists march and try to impose their views on the U.S., is that better because, hey, at least they aren’t religious (even if they have many of the markings of a cult)?
I think the proper way to combat the less savory elements of the religious right is to challenge their assertions head on. Calling them demons and making condescending remarks about their followers is not going to work. Too many people believe in the tenents for us to pretend their opinions are just the contrivences of the power hungry. We can’t just say “they only believe that because they want control.” We have to actually address their arguments with honest counter-arguments — just as we would with secular groups.
November 3rd, 2006 at 10:19 am
One more thing…
Daniel, you seem to want religion to be as passive and quiet as possible. You say you don’t want to have your beliefs invalidated but then go right on the invalidate the beliefs of those you oppose. It just won’t work that way. Just because someone wants to legislate their morality doesn’t make their morality inherrently wrong. Or are you also critical of efforts to punish hate speech, to forbid Army recruiters on college campuses, to harsly restrict gun ownership (like in Washington, DC) not because any statistic shows it prevents violence but just because some are morally opposed to guns?
It gets quite complicated when we start picking and choosing which groups get to request their morals be law and which groups don’t.
November 3rd, 2006 at 11:22 am
Sorry Daniel. I’m not saying that you’re not telling us what you were thinking when you wrote that title, but there’s a disconnect and it makes you appear disingenuous. I’m not saying that you are disingenuous, but you would have done well to pose the title as a question instead of making it a declaration.
November 3rd, 2006 at 1:10 pm
Evangelical Minister Ted Haggard Accused of Homosexual Relationship
All over the news, internet, and blogs this morning. Number one search term at Technorati: Ted Haggard.
The story:
A leading evangelist and outspoken opponent of gay marriage has given up his post as president of the National Association of Evangelica…
November 3rd, 2006 at 2:22 pm
Why should I not call them demons and deluded morons? They call me and people like me perverts, pederasts and bestialists…it’s not as if *I* started the namecalling…
And yes, I believe I DO have the right to be free of their requests, it’s called “separation of church and state”, written in that oft-ignored little document called the Constitution.
November 3rd, 2006 at 7:04 pm
Sleipner … uh,where in the Constitution does in ensure you never have to hear the demands of any particular group (religious or otherwise)? They have the right to tell you that you’re immoral and you have the right to tell them f**k off. They also have the right to legislate their morality just as you have the right to vote against their candidates. Separation of church and state doesn’t deny the religious access to public office or law making — in fact, it ensures they are free to hold public office and make laws no matter what they believe.
I know you’re tough enough to stand up to these guys. You don’t need to hide behind false interpretations of the doctrine of separation between church and state.
And, for the record, I do think you have the right to call them demons … although I think “false prophets” is more accurate.
November 3rd, 2006 at 11:53 pm
I am an evangelical Christian and my heart is grieved and deeply saddened over this incident. I am also very embarrassed, because Haggard’s foolish choices have brought shame upon the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We who seek Jesus Christ, whether under the label of “evangelical”, “Catholic” or “Eastern Orthodox” (or whatever other label one may use), cannot make light of this horrific and shameful incident. It should serve as a reminder to all of us to be humble and admit that we all do things that are wrong. It should also serve as a reminder that we all should discipline ourselves daily to examine how we are living. I believe that it was Socrates who said that “the life unexamined is the life not worth living”. In incidents such as these, people of faith may be tempted to throw away their faith out of disillusionment with the institutional church. Manwhile, secular people can see it as yet another reason (which in a rational mind seems logical and valid) not to believe at all. But my challenge to disillusioned believers and reinforced nonbelievers is to fix their attention and focus not on imperfect people, but on the flawless, perfect Son of the Most High God - THE LORD JESUS CHRIST. Because when we stand before Him in judgment, He will not ask us about what we thought about Ted Haggard, the evangelical movement, the Catholic Church or whatever….No! He will hold us accountable to how we responded to HIM. And while those of Haggard’s kind can easily be dismissed as the laughing stock of religion, any wise, soul searching, honest person who seeks after Jesus of Nazareth and discovers who HE truly is, will find that they cannot turn away from the One who is The King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. You can’t. Jesus is the Way, the Truth and the Life (John 14:6) Those who claim to be His followers may oftentimes be screwups, but that is why He gave His life upon the Cross, to rescue the lost from the error of their foolish ways, so that if they turn to Him, they will find life as it was meant to be. And that truly rips the cap right off the toothpaste and let’s the soul truly be set free. Christ said, “You will know the truth and the truth will make you free.” (John 8:32). Look to Christ, get your eyes off of people. They are accountable to God for their actions. They will let you down every time, but Jesus never fails. Trust Him!
November 4th, 2006 at 12:44 am
Before anyone condems anyone, pay attention to one of the best stories in the Bible. This ’story’ tells us, as HUMANS, how to handle news items such as this. I’m sure everyone that claims to be religious will know the story so I’ll not repeat it here but, the basic lesson of the story is “unless you aren’t guilty of ever doing something ‘wrong’, don’t judge others!” (”Let he that is among you without Sin, cast the first stone”). The ONLY person that could have condemned the guilty party made that statement. Are any of us that are ‘religious’ better than He was??
November 4th, 2006 at 11:38 am
New Admissin by Haggard!
Now Art, I mean Ted, says “Ok, I had sex but I didn’t swallow”.
November 4th, 2006 at 11:35 pm
This is an interesting website to search: http://www.syrogers.com
November 5th, 2006 at 2:27 am
We all make mistakes. From the president down to the homeless person. We all have battled different demons. So forgive the guy, and stop being so nosy.
November 5th, 2006 at 2:32 am
“Jesus is way, the truth, and the life” not Ted Haggard. Jesus was sin free. He died for our sins. Not Ted Haggard. He was appointed by God to deliver a message of hope. Not to save the world. He is human just like you and me. He made a mistake just like you and me. He is not perfect. Jesus is perfect. So forgive him. And ask Jesus to forgive you.
November 5th, 2006 at 7:13 pm
Mind Your Own Business and Catherine,
Nobody is saying that Haggard should have been sin-free. But he is a public figure who used his pulpit to preach against the very things he was doing. Of course he made mistakes, and that’s kind of the point. Judge not lest ye be judged.
Say what you will, but this story deserved the attention it got.
November 6th, 2006 at 11:54 am
Huh…everyone makes mistakes, forgive and forget…works real well when it’s a conservative figure, but when it’s Clinton? He’s a DEMON for getting a blowjob from a woman!
But crystal meth and sex with gay hookers is forgivable for the high priest of the conservative holier-than-thou morality movement.
November 6th, 2006 at 12:29 pm
sleipner, seriously…calm down.
Clinton was the President, and like it or not we live in a very Christian country. He should have known better than to do what he did. Should he have been impeached for it? No, but he did committ perjury, so have that be what it is…
In any event, the Haggard scandal is getting the appropriate attention given his stature in the public eye. And hey, at least he admitted it very soon after the accusations came out. Clinton let his accusations drag on forever before he finally admitted his.
In any event, done and done. Let’s move on.