Church without God: How secular congregations fill a need for some nonreligious Americans

The Lake Sun, By Jacqui Frost , on January 11, 2024https://www.lakenewsonline.com/premium/stories/church-without-god-how-secular-congregations-fill-a-need-for-some-nonreligious-americans,66041

The Non-Prophets, Episode 23.4.3 featuring Scott Dickie, Phil the Skeptic Atheist, Jonathan Roudabush and Helen Greene

The panel delves into the intriguing emergence of atheist churches and secular congregations as a burgeoning trend. These gatherings, exemplified by initiatives like the Sunday Assembly, provide a unique space for non-religious individuals to partake in community-building activities reminiscent of religious rituals. The concept includes shared testimonies, collective singing, and even de-baptism ceremonies, all aimed at fostering a sense of belonging without the supernatural elements inherent in traditional religious practices.

The discussion unfolds with the recognition of the inherent human desire for social connection and community support. The panel acknowledges the positive aspects of these secular gatherings, particularly for individuals who have recently transitioned away from religious communities. The prospect of finding a supportive community, engaging in shared activities, and building bonds akin to a family is considered a valuable aspect of these initiatives.

However, the panel also critically examines the language used in the article, expressing concerns about the term "atheist churches." They highlight the potential for such terminology to inadvertently convey the idea that atheism itself is a form of religion. This prompts a discussion on the need for clear distinctions between secular communities and religious institutions, emphasizing that atheism is a lack of belief in deities rather than a religious stance.

As the conversation unfolds, the panel members share their thoughts on the broader implications of this trend. While acknowledging the likelihood of secular congregations coexisting with religious counterparts, they foresee a potential shift where the influence and prominence of traditional religious congregations might diminish over time.

However, the consensus remains that complete eradication of religious congregations is unlikely, with coexistence being the more plausible outcome in the evolving landscape of human community and belief systems.


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