Dear Chris,

It’s interesting you use the "Crusades" as an example to justify war.

I belive from my historical understanding, that a number of these "Holy" crusaders acted much less than holy - engaging in their own looting, pillaging, and even the defacing of St. Sophia’s - the center of the Eastern Catholic Church.

Also, I believe that his participation in the crusades lead St Francis to adopt a life of peace - as well as develop a great appreciation for the "enemy" who often behaved more "holy" than the alleged "holy" crusaders.

Also, the crusades left a lasting impact on the middle east to this day where the west is not trusted.

Shall we mention, Chris, what some of the crusaders did to the Jews residing in the middle east at the time ?

Good examle to justify war, Chris, have you any more ?