Discussions 6

About the Event

Meeting Minutes for September 10, 1997; #6.

West Michigan Skeptics Rob & Kim Adamczyk, Howard Foster, Don Hansen, Jeff & Carol Seaver.

Princess Diana’s death was noted, plus the sterling reading of 1 Corinthians 13 at the funeral by the prime minister, Tony Blair. Other comments by Paul in that book downgrade women.

Jeff and Rob recommended the book Age of Reason, by Thomas Paine, who took a very objective and challenging view of Christianity.

Rob read a passage from Dan Barker’s Losing Faith in Faith, which described how the author came to the realization that his religious beliefs, promoted by traditional religious groups, were not based on reason, compassion or love.

Cathy raised the question as to how far one should go in leveling with friends and relatives about one’s religious beliefs and practices, especially if one no longer attends religious services or believes in the traditional way. In West Michigan, there appears to be an intense interest, by many people, in knowing the religious labels other people carry. It is probably appropriate to be more discreet with parents.

WWJD – What Would Jesus Do? Kim took up the issue of the bracelets that are meant to lead kids to the right decision. In contemporary society there are likely many occasions when such a consideration would not be germane or warranted.

Rob read a passage from A.J. Matill’s book regarding Christianity’s persecution of those who differed from traditional beliefs.

Howard read a commentary about our nation’s constitution, indicating that the origin of it was not based on religious maxims, nor written by religious champions.

Rob read a selection from Tom Paine’s book, which stressed reason.

Kim served delicious bread (forgot to ask her what kind, but it was like banana bread). Wonderful.

Next meeting at Hansen’s, Wednesday, October 1, 7 p.m.

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>From the church bulletin: A bean supper will be held on Tuesday evening in the church hall. Music will follow. Remember in prayer the many who are sick of our church and community.