Moon still shines.

Forgotten in the current controversies swirling around the Reverends Jeremiah Wright, John Hagee, and Rod Parsley is the Reverend Sun Myung Moon. You remember the Reverend Moon, don't you? Founder of the Holy Spirit Association for the Unification of World Christianity, (whose followers are popularly, but not respectfully, known as "Moonies"), publisher of the Washington Times, owner of many fishing fleets and arms manufacturers, and very, very wealthy man, Moon has been an active, but behind the scenes player in politics - primarily conservative politics.

Moon's original purpose was to correct the errors of Christianity. He was called by God to complete the mission that Jesus should have completed but failed to do so. As such, he has been a controversial figure in the world of religions for many decades. Moon would host seminars in exotic locations led by world-renowned scholars and invite students and ministers to the event. According to critics, he sought legitimacy in this way.

I will have to confess that, in the 1980's, I received an invitation to a Unification seminar in Washington D.C. I did not accept. I have often regretted not going and having someone pay for my way to D.C.

Moon has made many controversial statements in his speeches and sermons. For example, he has stated that America has become the kingdom of Satan. He believes that people who oppose his movement will die.

There is a lot more that can be said about the Reverend Moon, but only other theologically minded folks would be interested. (As if anyone is interested in any of this at all.) But, I started thinking, how close to a particular campaign does one have to be to be an issue? Obviously, Reverend Moon has not made any widely reported recent speeches, but he still holds some views that are at odds with the typical American. Should any candidate who receives money from him be interrogated to the extent that Barack Obama is about Reverend Wright? Or, should reporters, and the American people, ignore the connection?

What do you think? Should Moon be allowed to shine without interference?