Do you follow the religion of your ancestors or did you pick your own?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:This^?

Combination of both.

Chose to stay within overall major world religion of ancestors for cultural reasons but converted to much more liberal, non-dogmatic, denomination that welcomes women and GBTLQ+ people as leaders and members. My chosen denomination encourages individual reflection of sacred texts in non literal ways that relate to modern life while respecting historical contexts. It also values interfaith work, science, and showing Gods love in practical ways.

I tried to do that too. I was raised Missouri Synod Lutheran (very theologically and socially conservative) and never liked it. I tried ELCA Lutheranism for a while, which is much more theologically and socially liberal. It was great in that respect, but that was also when I realized that it wasn't just the conservatism that I had a problem with, but the actual Christian underpinnings (the Trinity, original sin, heaven/eternal life, Jesus as the messiah). I appreciate that more liberal churches offer ways to express God's love through volunteerism and interfaith partnerships; it's just not for me.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:This^?

Combination of both.

Chose to stay within overall major world religion of ancestors for cultural reasons but converted to much more liberal, non-dogmatic, denomination that welcomes women and GBTLQ+ people as leaders and members. My chosen denomination encourages individual reflection of sacred texts in non literal ways that relate to modern life while respecting historical contexts. It also values interfaith work, science, and showing Gods love in practical ways.

I tried to do that too. I was raised Missouri Synod Lutheran (very theologically and socially conservative) and never liked it. I tried ELCA Lutheranism for a while, which is much more theologically and socially liberal. It was great in that respect, but that was also when I realized that it wasn't just the conservatism that I had a problem with, but the actual Christian underpinnings (the Trinity, original sin, heaven/eternal life, Jesus as the messiah). I appreciate that more liberal churches offer ways to express God's love through volunteerism and interfaith partnerships; it's just not for me.

Thank for explaining your path a bit more. I can see why Christian underpinnings may be problematic for you.

I believe that there is a religious or humanist community for everyone and hopefully you will find yours.

There are so many ways to be in meaningful and caring community and I certainly don’t think we have a monopoly on it.

Peace