Phelps’ hate church inspires the North Country

Fred Phelps’ vicious band of agitators has once again slouched into Plattsburgh. The good news is that everybody pretty much has these goofballs’ number by now.

In fact, the virulently homophobic Phelps organization has sparked some pretty remarkable and heartwarming allegiances over the years.

When you manage to get gay rights groups, churches, the VFW, and all political persuasions working together, that’s a weirdly wonderful accomplishment.

Phelps claims he’s trying to usher in a holier and more moral America. The great irony is that he’s succeeding. Not by example, but by provoking our better instincts as a society.

As the Phelps clan drifts away to their next vitriol-fest, I can’t help but feel real compassion for them.

Maybe some small part of the North Country’s beauty and neighborliness will rub off on them and bring a glimmer of grace to their lives.