Thanks to all of you for your contributions.

Carol C. - I know that what I believe is my own business but it helps to inform me when I know what others believe and what the different denominations believe.

The question regarding the Holy Spirit (ghost) has been on my mind for a long time. Perhaps it symbolizes woman as the life giving force or maybe its just another name for love. Its amazing to me how people faithfully accept what the church fathers have dictated without ever questioning the basics.

Thanks for your insight.