I have never visited the off-topic discussions but I can surely imagine how much time the moderators need to spend in the threads.

Religion and politics are two subjects that should not be discussed because of our passion on our particular choice. Of course, this is just human nature and I am just as guilty as the next person to stand up for my beliefs. BUT and this is a really big but; people often get hurt.

I'm sure that no one here wants to deliberately hurt another forum member; so, turning off the thread was the best choice. And, keeping friends is more valuable than an egg or two.