But I don't think faith ever involves imposing beliefs upon other people, or seeking to destroy the beliefs that have meaning to others. That's an aberration, I think. I believe that tolerance is part of the essence of faith. I think that true faith demands an openness to all that is around us, but also a willingness to embrace and enjoy the understandings that come to us through faith.

Joe, I agree. I think what would really be interesting would be to discuss theology with felllow believers, in a setting where people who have been harmed by "religion" could be the flies on the wall. The depth of thought and the breadth of exploration, the personal experiences shared, the lack of condemnation-- all these might offer a different view of what had formerly been so painful. (I'm NOT suggesting that Mudcat is the place for this.)

Lest anyone think I do not understand or care about the harms that HAVE been done, CLICK HERE for a thread I started almost 5 years ago.

~Susan