Jeri,

I may be wrong but I don't think the microbiology to which you refer points necessarily to evolution. It doesn't result in a new and different species. That's not a small point if true.

I suppose I'm a bit of a pessamist because, though I believe that differing objectively held beliefs can live together in peace, I'm afraid they won't. That's why I think Jesus taught his followers to choose their battles wisely, only fight for what is really essential, and GO DOWN LOVING. I'm not sure that Christians fighting in the publicly held square for creationism is a wise battle to choose. I'd rather hope to lay down my life as a Bonhoffer--a battle worth fighting. Don't get me wrong, I think one's views on creation or lack thereof are important, just not the best way to show the very core of what we believe--love.