The poster who was raised catholic and now hates, hates the religion is on here 24/7. |
Enraged because Jeff won’t remove religion from recent topics poster needs to get a life. |
I was raised Catholic and chose to keep my kids out of the Church. They are good kids who do the right thing, not for fear of hell, but because it is the right thing. |
+1! |
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and that's the type of critical thinking religions want to deter. |
There are quite a few of us former Catholics here. |
Everyone adheres to some form of religion. It’s just that what’s trendy now is religion of self. So you’re not worshipping a deity, per se, but indulging in self-worship and adulation….yet still seeking and searching for something…anything….to fill up the emptiness and provide meaning. For those still seeking, I will offer that Jesus provides meaning and truth. The Bible tells us we were made to worship our creator and act as his vessel to share His love with others. God sent His son to take on the punishment for our sins so that we can be free from that burden and punishment. All you are required to do is accept this gift of salvation and put your faith in Christ. |
I feel like people keep looking for a church to match their ideas or a minister who tells them what they want to hear rather than looking to the Bible for truth and finding a church that adheres to that. God doesn’t change. His truth is His truth. |
If you replace "Jesus" with nature and "the Bible" with Peterson's Field Guide of North American Birds, you can experience my salvation. Birds and trees brought me out of depression. Being outdoors and viewing nature brings meaning to my life and provides a sense of connection with the world. You can sit on your pew on Sunday, I'll be in the woods. |
That’s okay. Sitting in a building isn’t a requirement. And you don’t get any extra “points” for that Some people enjoy church as a way to do exactly as you described—provide a sense of connection and meaning. (And yeah—so use it ti gel pious…but that’s just our misguided sinful nature at work. We are definitely NOT perfect.) In appreciating His creation, you’re just one step away from worshipping the creator. My prayer is that this connection to and appreciation for the beauty of His creation will grow into a worshipful experience for you in a journey to fall in love with the Creator. |
It’s not a competition. Not all people like or are moved by the same things. |
But just one rabid, foaming at the mouth former Catholic who spends her days here. |
I'm a long-time birder, and going into nature (with National Geographic or Sibley) makes me marvel at creation. Obviously YMMV. Also, Sunday morning isn't the only available time for birding; we're lucky to have the rest of the weekend or even to get out at dawn or lunch. |
Some of us don’t want or need belief in a “Creator.” Our lives are rich and full without this. I’m glad it makes you happy, though. Just extend me the same consideration. |