Thanks for the comment Gerard.   It sounds like I actually live in a less repressive area than you, although I can certainly relate. While I hate to hear anyone engage in hate speech, it's even more frustrating to hear Christians talk in extremely negative (judgmental) terms.   So much of it is based in fear and ignorance.  And yet, that still doesn't excuse the behavior.   While we can try to gently challenge others, I wonder if the best work gets done in the prayer closet.