Find Religion

I light of the Starbucks debate, I’d like to reiterate my position on religion–it’s not whether you believe in this or that, it’s whether you’re on a spiritual journey to find out what the Divine really means for you. The journey includes learning about other religious and engaging in friendly and healthy debate to consider your ideas. Once a month, FindReligion will be hosting the religious round table, a place where people can talk about and discuss various subjects of controversy. Everyone is invited to participate, regardless of religious belief.

This month’s participants:

Allison, FindReligion Moderator: I’ve been a Lutheran since I was a child, but have explored a number of other religions and also agree with other viewpoints on the Divine.

Dave Parrack, Freelance Writer: Being an agnostic just sort of happened for me. I was brought up vaguely Church of England Christian, but never really practising or a church goer. Visit my website.

Gillian: When I was 12 my parents said I could choose whatever religion I liked, so I researched several, but decided I liked being Jewish. I’ve had upbringing as Australian Orthodox, but I attend synagogues and have family and friends right across the spectrum. Visit my website.

Dr. Jeffery D. Long, professor of religion and Asian studies, Hindu:I grew up Roman Catholic and converted to Hinduism. Informally, I’ve been practicing for more than twenty years. Formally, for twelve years.

Summer M, PriestessI was raised Southern Baptist, broke away at 13 and considered myself atheist until I found Paganism. I’ve been practicing now for 10 years. Visit my website.

JM, Freelance Writer I’ve fit into the belief system most of my life but have never defined myself as Neo-Pagen until recently. My family moved from church to church when I was growing up (Christian denominations) before settling on non-denominational. Visit my website.

Rev. Dr. Robert Cornwall, Pastor, Editor, Historian: I’ve not always been a member of the Disciples of Christ, but I’ve been in the Christian church from birth. Growing up Episcopalian, in time my journey took me into the Foursquare Church and from there to the Disciples, though I’ve had a few other stops along the way. I’ve been a Disciple for 22 years now. Visit my website.

Stephanie Hyatt, High School English Teacher: I’ve been practicing 10 years as a Cumberland Presbyterian, but mainstream Christian my whole life. I grew up Baptist, but I consider that a similar religion — i.e., Baptist doctrine is a bit more conservative, but they are more alike than different. Visit my website.

This Month’s Topic: God in Our Schools

Check back tomorrow for the round table discussion. Don’t see your religion represented? Jump on board for next month’s discussion. All are welcome!