What denomination or other faith are you? [Archive]

AZ Nudist

08-26-2003, 01:22 PM

I joined the Mormon church 25 years ago. I have always had fairly open attitude towards nudity. I have just recently really begun to more aggressively pursue this mentality. Because of the conservative attitude of the Mormon church, as well as most, I have had to take my feelings to God & have come to a very strong conclusion through prayer that everyone is entitled to their own personal revelation & must determine how to lead there own lives. The guidlines & counsels from a church organization are just that, guidlines. I for one will take those suggestions & determine through pondering & prayer how best to implement them into my life. I feel that I cannot just arbitrarily be told what to do & follow blindly. I feel that God gave us a brain & a soul & between the 2 of them, we as individuals can determine how to lead our lives, implmenting the Lord's teachings in our individual lives. Personally, I feel that we as a society, are wound way too tight. It's important to maintain good, virtuous, lives & strive to improve our society. If we could all just live the "Golden Rule", how great a world would this be.

Jaybird77

08-26-2003, 02:02 PM

I attend a local Pentecostal church in my hometown. I believe that teachings must line up with the Word of God, and if they do not, they should be discarded. That is my belief.

Jaybird77

08-26-2003, 03:41 PM

Talk about simplistic! LOL!

Jaybird, the problem with being that simplistic is that just about every person out there that believes in the "word of god" has a different idea on just what he said.

How else would you explain most christians being against nudism for instance?

R.M. Greenman

08-26-2003, 04:45 PM

I consider myself pagan. My curch is among the trees, mountains, creatures great and small. The music is what the birds sing.

Any religion would agree that the perfect place to worship is in the places created by God/nature.

NW Nude

08-26-2003, 05:01 PM

My wife and I are both Christians. We don't attend a church. Our 3 kids attend Christian and Missionary Alliance. They began to attend on their own following some music events they were in. I believe they are more grounded in their faiths because they chose their beleifs from their hearts and not forced by parents. Now the nudist part...We have only been nude for a year now. We haven't told the kids because they are 18, 15, and 11. Very awkward ages as it is. If they every found out or asked, we would tell. When we go away for the weekend to a resort, they ask and we say the name of the lake or beach and say we were a a private resort. I still struggle a bit and am reading on the subject. I hope others add to this. If the textiled world knew what true non-sexual nude recreaction was about, they'd have a totaly different view. In a recent discusion with my Mom, we discussed nudism, not out to her but in theory. She was all against it. A long student of the Bible, I ask for references against. She couldn't produce any. Everything was human mandated or personal bad experiences. Go figure???

Vin

08-26-2003, 05:04 PM

I've already posted this a couple of times here, but I'm also Pagan. Wiccan, to be exact. I agree that the best place to connect to God/dess/es is in nature.

BB,
Vin

Jaybird77

08-26-2003, 06:50 PM

Cyndiann,

They obviously have'nt checked for themselves what the Bible says or does not say about nudity. They have probably been spoon-fed their opinion all of their lives. If they dug a little into the Word they would realize that their opinions might be a bit off.

Jaybird77

08-26-2003, 07:15 PM

Jaybird what I wrote went right over your head. What you may consider to be "the word" is just your opinion same as everyone else. There is no one right way to interpret the bible. It is all opinions.

Jaybird77

08-26-2003, 09:27 PM

Cyndiann,

I suppose that is your opinion which you have every right to. I'm not here to stir it up, I was just stating how I believed.

Jaybird77

GO AWAY

08-26-2003, 10:11 PM

I love how when someone posts a simple questions...everyone else feels they need to attack peoples personal beliefs...sometimes you just have to refrain from trying to offend others...just answer the question and if you do not like the topic move on...

that is why there is soo much division...people are constantly trying to rip each other apart...and then in other post they get on others for ripping them apart...

"do unto others as you would have them do unto you"

what goes around comes around...

so people chill...stop cutting at each others throats...

GOODNESS...

Prometheus

08-27-2003, 01:58 AM

I am an atheist.

nudist_in_Tn

08-27-2003, 08:37 AM

Methodist here. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

08-27-2003, 02:01 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by Jaybird77:
Cyndiann,

I suppose that is your opinion which you have every right to. I'm not here to stir it up, I was just stating how I believed.

Jaybird77 <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>I'm not here to stir it up either. I'm here to debate which is what a mesageboard is for.

I'd like to know why you believe that your way is the only way.

ORTim

08-27-2003, 04:23 PM

I was raised a Catholic.
I am no longer "practicing" although sometimes I feel a great desire to.
Tim

GO AWAY

08-27-2003, 06:44 PM

I don't if maybe I am blind or dyxlesic (spelling)...but I do believe that this board asked WHAT DENOMINATION OR FAITH ARE YOU???

SOunds to me more like a POLL than a judgment...and if ia m not mistaken you guys are the ones that turned it into something that it wasn't intended to be, which is why a lot of people are LEAVING these board because people take things way out of context...as I just found out he truth of why a few people have left the boards and no longer post anymore...They PM'ed me and let me know the real stories...

You people just jump on others and attack and don't realize that you are taking things out of proportion...

If i am also not mistaken...there was a post called GENITAL PEIRCINGS ETC...and you and many others on here were condemning people for pigheadedness and for not having an open mind and attack others...

HMMMMM looks like to me like the same thing is happening from the people who told others it was wrong...

You guys just need to bakc up and realize everything is not a DEBATE...and if you don't agree with it, move ahead. look the other way and have a nice day...

GOODNESS...I swear some people really need to PRACTICE what they PREACH

Bob S.

08-27-2003, 07:00 PM

I am complicated. I grew up Methodist, but cast that aside when I couldn't believe that Jesus was who I was taught he was. So in high school, I became atheistic, even to the point of not reciting the words "Under G*d" during the "Pledge of Allegience."

During my time as an athiest, I learned other religions and ultimately decided that no one religion knows the whole truth. So a couple of years ago when I found G*d again, I decided that my main base for religion is represented mostly in the Jewish religion, however, I hold a lot of other ideas as well. Among them, evolution, fate and destiny, and past and future lives. Basically, it is an eclectic mix of many truths.

Jaybird, what cyndiann is saying is that different people have interpreted the Bible in just about as many different ways. Heck, even the translations have reflected the society of the day. And if you don't think something can be interpreted in many ways, remember back to your English class and the subject of poetry and interpretation of the poems. Maddening, wasn't it?

The same goes with interpretations of the Bible. There is only one truth out there and that truth has eluded mankind ever sine we first gazed up at the night sky and were able to contemplate our own existence. Believe in your "Word of G*d" but realize that others hear and read much differently than you do.

Bob S.

Jaybird77

08-27-2003, 07:15 PM

Cyndiann

Im not here to debate religion with you or anyone else. Its not like Im going to convince you anyways. I'm here to enjoy the company of other nudist no matter their religion. Call me a chicken or a coward if you want, but I'm not here to debate.

Jaybird77
Blessed are the peacemakers...

GO AWAY

08-27-2003, 07:23 PM

Exactly...call me what you want and say what you want..

Those who mind DON"T MATTER and those who MATTER, DON'T MIND...

IT'S NOT WORTH THE WORDS...

(IS THERE ANY WAY TO DELETE YOUR NAME ALTOGETHER)

Elery

08-27-2003, 07:45 PM

I believe that what I believe is true, that what I believe is true is true because I wouldn't believe it if I didn't believe it to be true at least I believe that is true...................................... Oh poot.

08-27-2003, 07:47 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by Miami_Newdist:
I don't if maybe I am blind or dyxlesic (spelling)...but I do believe that this board asked WHAT DENOMINATION OR FAITH ARE YOU???

SOunds to me more like a POLL than a judgment...and if ia m not mistaken you guys are the ones that turned it into something that it wasn't intended to be, which is why a lot of people are LEAVING these board because people take things way out of context...as I just found out he truth of why a few people have left the boards and no longer post anymore...They PM'ed me and let me know the real stories...

You people just jump on others and attack and don't realize that you are taking things out of proportion...

If i am also not mistaken...there was a post called GENITAL PEIRCINGS ETC...and you and many others on here were condemning people for pigheadedness and for not having an open mind and attack others...

HMMMMM looks like to me like the same thing is happening from the people who told others it was wrong...

You guys just need to bakc up and realize everything is not a DEBATE...and if you don't agree with it, move ahead. look the other way and have a nice day...

GOODNESS...I swear some people really need to PRACTICE what they PREACH <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Your post reflects such a loving man of god!
**snicker**

GO AWAY

08-27-2003, 07:51 PM

LOL...

There is no need to even respond to that...actually there is no reason to respond anymore at all...

this forum is a thing of the past for me.....

GoodBye all...

thanks you all that have been great to me, and I really hope that you others will learn not treat others as you have treated me...

especially when we were once friends...shows how high you guys hold your friends...

oh well..

over and out for good...

this post is dead to me

GO AWAY

08-27-2003, 07:53 PM

YOU KNOW WHAT...

I AM REVOKING MY RESIGNATION...

I AM NOT GOING TO LET YOU GUYS RUN ME OFF...

LOL...

WHAT WAS I THINKING...THE POWER OF IGNORING IS SOO MUCH BETTER

SO I AM BACK AND BETTER THAN EVER...YOU THINK YOU HAVE BEATEN ME...

HMMMMMMM

NEVER...!!!!

08-27-2003, 07:55 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by Jaybird77:
Cyndiann

Im not here to debate religion with you or anyone else. Its not like Im going to convince you anyways. I'm here to enjoy the company of other nudist no matter their religion. Call me a chicken or a coward if you want, but I'm not here to debate.

Jaybird77
Blessed are the peacemakers... <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>If that were so you would not have posted this

I believe that teachings must line up with the Word of God, and if they do not, they should be discarded. That is my belief.

and this....
They obviously have'nt checked for themselves what the Bible says or does not say about nudity. They have probably been spoon-fed their opinion all of their lives. If they dug a little into the Word they would realize that their opinions might be a bit off.

Both times you posted an opinion about how others think (and posted it as though it was infallable fact) so I posted my opinion back. However, I didn't ever say it was a fact.

If you don't want to debate then don't offer anything to debate to begin with. I don't call people names, hope you don't either.

You don't get to post your opinions without anyone else getting to post theirs. That isn't an attack on anyone, just how messageboards work. Trying to turn other's opinions into fights and attacks when yours are no different ain't gonna work on this girl.

GO AWAY

08-27-2003, 07:55 PM

and for you all that have mocked me...

it's all good...

What you have done to me, has already been done to you...

you reap what you sow...

and my favorite scripture of all is lurking in the depths of my mind...bringing joy to my heart...

if you only knew...

whoo whoooo

GO AWAY

08-27-2003, 07:59 PM

blah blah blah...TRAILSCOUT has become a woman....AHHHH

08-27-2003, 08:00 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by Miami_Newdist:
and for you all that have mocked me...

it's all good...

What you have done to me, has already been done to you...

you reap what you sow...

and my favorite scripture of all is lurking in the depths of my mind...bringing joy to my heart...

if you only knew...

whoo whoooo <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Now we are mocking you.... LOL!

As I told Jaybird, just because someone posts an opinion different than yours does not make it an attack or mocking or anything else negative you may want to call it.

Does complaining about the opinions others have instead of presenting legs for your views to stand on validate your view in any way?

GO AWAY

08-27-2003, 08:02 PM

does anyone want to post something related to the topic...

anyone...at all...okay...don't you all speak at once...

LOL

GO AWAY

08-27-2003, 08:07 PM

Hey...I don't know if anyone can answer this...

but does anyone know exactly what a 7-Day or Seventh Day Adventist is...

I have a friend who is, and his explanation wasn't very clear...I know it's a branch off of CHristianity, but does anyone know what makes it different from regular Christianity...

Lemme know dudders or duddettes..

J

08-27-2003, 08:45 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by Miami_Newdist:
Hey...I don't know if anyone can answer this...
but does anyone know exactly what a 7-Day or Seventh Day Adventist is...
J <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>I'm not an expert on this religion, however there are some Seventh Day Adventists in this area. One of their beliefs is the "Sabbath" is Saturday. This means from sundown Friday until sundown on Saturday, no business is to be conducted. Many check for the exact time of sundown. They also do not believe in eating meat. Just my observations, I know there is more to their religion than this. It is a Christian religion. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

Jochanaan

08-27-2003, 08:57 PM

The Seventh Day Adventist denomination grew out of the Millerite movement in the 1840s. William Miller thought he had the date figured for the Second Coming in 1844. Well, when the date passed and the Lord didn't return, Mr. Miller eventually repudiated his calculations, but many of his followers kept the movement going. "Adventist" here means one who expects Jesus to return soon, or one who believes certain things about His return.

In the 1850s a Sabbathkeeping Christian woman became acquainted with some Adventists and persuaded them to accept the seventh-day Sabbath. Before long the entire denomination worshipped on Saturday, not Sunday.

Many Adventists, even today, accept Ellen G. White as their Prophetess and consider her writings as authoritative as Scripture. But many others do not think this way and their beliefs and practice are more in line with more traditional Christian denominations.

(No, I'm not a Seventh-Day Adventist, but I've know a number of them. My own denomination, the Seventh Day Baptists, also worship on Saturday. The woman I referred to above, Rachel Oaks, was a Seventh Day Baptist.)

GO AWAY

08-27-2003, 09:11 PM

thanks guys...that was really helpful...

you learn something new everyday...

08-28-2003, 02:01 AM

I had a close friend that was a 7th Day Adventist and from what he told me they believe that you *must* believe exactly as they do in order to be "saved". They do not honor others' beliefs and believe other christians are doomed to hell.

Many christian religions are the same way. In this I prefer the wiccan beliefs... they believe everyone needs to find their own path. It just makes a lot more sense.

Trailscout

08-28-2003, 03:12 AM

I have a couple of dear Adventist friends who explained to me that the official position of their particular Adventist congregation is that worship on Sunday is not yet proof of apostacy, but they believe that there will come a day when it is.

I agree that Sabbath was and is Saturday, but I do not believe that a person is sinning by entering a church building on Sunday and praying. I believe that there is a Sabbath principle, that is humans need a weekly day of rest from their work for maximum mental, physical and spiritual health. I do not consider the typical churchgoing routine to be particularly restful. I tend to rest on Saturday and worship publicly on Sunday. Nor do I obsess about not spending money on Sabbath. I love Jewish law, but I observe the underlying God-given principles rather than trying to keep every precept of a code of statutes that was designed for a different place and time.

The Jewish law guides us to Jesus the Messiah who is the only way to heaven and peace with God on this earth.

No one can "find his or her way" or even wants to live a holy life independently. God has to put it in your heart, then we respond to his inner voice.

I have met some Wiccans and every one I have met is a deep thinking person who seems to be seeking harmony with creation and the forces of nature, but they need to take the next step and seek Jesus, who is God the Creator and they will have a peace and harmony with creation on a far higher level.

Vin

08-28-2003, 06:04 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by Trailscout:
No one can "find his or her way" or even wants to live a holy life independently. God has to put it in your heart, then we respond to his inner voice.

I have met some Wiccans and every one I have met is a deep thinking person who seems to be seeking harmony with creation and the forces of nature, but they need to take the next step and seek Jesus, who is God the Creator and they will have a peace and harmony with creation on a far higher level. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Ah... no. I happen to be much happier with Wicca than I ever was with Christianity. It is a far more peaceful religion that actually acknowledges nature and humans' place in it. It makes a lot more sense to me. I can see the earth, from which it all started 4 billion years ago or so. And I can see the sun, which ultimately provides the energy to keep things going. I think I can sense a universal energy that manifests to me as the God and Goddess. I don't have to try to imagine these things, or take someone else's word for them. I can experience them directly.

I also happen to think that the universe big enough and complex enough that others can experience it in other, equally valid ways. I'm very happy for those who find Christianity fulfilling, but that path is not for me.

With respect, I think when you can climb into someone else's head and discover what they're truly experiencing, rather than what you imagine they feel, you might be able to say that someone else's spiritual path is not fulfilling to them, that they "are seeking" rather than "have found" harmony with the universe. For myself, that harmony (with God/dess/es) is enough; I don't need to worship any man to be complete.

Bright Blessings,
Vin

Edited for clarity

08-28-2003, 07:57 AM

Great post Vin!

The terrible way that christians have treated this planet speaks volumes about what is in their hearts. They say their god put them in charge of it and quite frankly we (the human race) have damaged it so extensively that I feared it was too late to save it, to turn people's views of the planet around so that they could see that it's resources have limits, to see how many of the other creatures we share the planet with have suffered because of the ignorance most people have shown.

I can't even get my neighbors to recycle their own garbage much less get involved in serious matters like saving the rain forrest.

And now today I hear our US (fundamentalist christian) president has undone years of work for the environment by changing the laws to allow much more polution. All he cares about is his rich buddies making money, nevermind his grandchildren will have to deal with the mess he has left for generations to come.

That is another of many reasons I support the wiccans and their beliefs. They truly care about the planet and it's future.

08-28-2003, 08:34 AM

Can anyone compare the Wiccan Religion to the Native American Indian Religion? /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

Vin

08-28-2003, 09:13 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by cyndiann:
Great post Vin!

The terrible way that christians have treated this planet speaks volumes about what is in their hearts.... <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Thanks! /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

In fairness, I don't think we can blame all the world's environmental woes on Christians. After all, they only account for about 30% of the planetary population, and a number of non-Christian nations (Japan, Saudi Arabia, China, etc.) also contribute to human-influenced environmental damage.

About fears that we've damaged the environment beyond repair, I subscribe somewhat to the Gaia Theory. I think that if we, as a species, become too onerous, the earth is perfectly capable of taking care of herself and getting rid of us. That's not an excuse to duck personal responsibility for caring for the earth (and thus honoring the Goddess), but I acknowledge that she will outlast any of us. The Law of Returns will bite us on the arse one day, if we're not careful. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

As for the current political situation, we have an opportunity every four years to cause an organized revolution in our government. I would hope that everyone takes advantage of the opportunity to participate and make the cases for their candidates. We've never not survived a bad President yet, and I'm sure we'll have more to weather in the future.

BB,
Vin

Vin

08-28-2003, 09:19 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by hw:
Can anyone compare the Wiccan Religion to the Native American Indian Religion? /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>I think the comparison would depend on which Native American religion you're asking about. In any case, my understanding of any of them is not deep enough to do the topic justice.

However, if you're interested in a broad overview of Wiccan beliefs, there's a good beginning resource at the Religious Tolerance website. (http://www.religioustolerance.org/wic_intr.htm) You'll have to do some link chasing to get all their info on beliefs, history, traditions, and practices.

BB,
Vin

08-28-2003, 10:59 AM

Great site Vin, thanks! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Vin

08-28-2003, 11:39 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by hw:
Great site Vin, thanks! /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>You're welcome. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

You'll notice that the answer to "What is Wicca?" depends largely on who you ask. There's a saying that if you ask five Wiccans what they think about something, you'll get at least six different answers. If you want some more reading suggestions, PM me and I'll get you a list.

BB,
Vin

GO AWAY

08-28-2003, 11:40 AM

No matter what Religion you are or what you believe there is one true fact that none of you can get away from unless u decided to move somewhere and live off of the fruits of the land...

Right now, dig into you wallet, purse, cracks in the couch or whatever and you will be touching on God's name...

imprinted on every piece of money are these words..

"IN GOD WE TRUST"

So hmmm must trust God if you are spending stuff with his name on it...So unless you are totally against God altogether...you still have some connection to him...anyone willing to go poor and not use money...

LOL...

THINGS THAT MAKE YOU GO HMMMM...

THAT'S ALL I HAVE TO SAY...HAHAHAA

THIS POST IS BECOMING JUST LIKE OTHER ONES...OH WELL...DO WHAT YOU WANT...

YOU MAY THINK YOU HAVE WON THE BATTLE...BUT YOU WILL DEFINITELY LOSE THE WAR...

Tenchi

08-28-2003, 12:49 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by cyndiann:
Great post Vin!

The terrible way that christians have treated this planet speaks volumes about what is in their hearts. They say their god put them in charge of it and quite frankly we (the human race) have damaged it so extensively that I feared it was too late to save it, to turn people's views of the planet around so that they could see that it's resources have limits, to see how many of the other creatures we share the planet with have suffered because of the ignorance most people have shown.

I can't even get my neighbors to recycle their own garbage much less get involved in serious matters like saving the rain forrest.

And now today I hear our US (fundamentalist christian) president has undone years of work for the environment by changing the laws to allow much more polution. All he cares about is his rich buddies making money, nevermind his grandchildren will have to deal with the mess he has left for generations to come.

That is another of many reasons I support the wiccans and their beliefs. They truly care about the planet and it's future. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>I think you are making some very biased statements cyndiann. I know a lot of Christians that care about the environment including me. Yes Mormons are Christians because we believe Christ died on the cross for us and that he is our savior and redeemer. To say that all Christians are like that is to say that all Wicans are evil Satanists. No I don't believe Wiccans or the religion are satanic. I am merely showing how judgemental you are being. So please don't assume all Christians are like that. In other words, becareful with what you say.

That goes for everyone here. We need to tolerate and respect each other, regardless of our different beliefs. After all we are all people. I believe the majority of religons offer good teachings and moral principles to people. If you really look at it, there are great similarities to Christian and non-Christian religions. So please, let's not knock each other for our different beliefs. We need to love and respect each other.

R.M. Greenman

08-28-2003, 02:59 PM

The "IN GOD WE TRUST" will be taken off our money within 10 years.

Just watch!

The Freedom From Religion organization is growing and getting more guttsy all the time.

Look what is going on in Alabama.

If I could print my own bills, it would say," In hard work and honesty we trust."

Tenchi

08-28-2003, 03:53 PM

I have a message I would love to present to cyndiann and R.M. Greenman. First of I would like to say that I have nothing agaisnt your religous beliefs. I have nothing against Wiccans and Pagans, I merely want to share my beliefs with you.

My belief and my testimony is this, though you two are very cynical toward Christianity, Jesus loves you both very much. He is our brother and our friend. Jesus will help us through life, and get us through troubled times. That's all I want to say to you two, how much he loves and cares for you. And I also love you two.

08-28-2003, 04:28 PM

"I know a lot of Christians that care about the environment including me. Yes Mormons are Christians because we believe Christ died on the cross for us and that he is our savior and redeemer. To say that all Christians are like that is to say that all Wicans are evil Satanists."

Not even close.... wiccans are never satanists while many christians are harmful to nature. I don't think I said ALL christians are like that. Wiccans don't believe in satan, that is a christian belief.

"We need to tolerate and respect each other, regardless of our different beliefs. After all we are all people. I believe the majority of religons offer good teachings and moral principles to people. If you really look at it, there are great similarities to Christian and non-Christian religions. So please, let's not knock each other for our different beliefs. We need to love and respect each other."

Then have a hard look at some of the christian posts here, the ones that claim "my way or the highway". That is exactly what I was complaining about, their inability to allow others their own beliefs. That isn't a knock on anyone, it's the same thing you are saying! LOL!

Read them, see how they can't allow anyone to have their own religion or thoughts. Christians have to force Jesus on everyone no matter if we want it or not. Far as I know there was no Jesus. The wiccan and atheist posts don't force anyone to believe like they do.

As for the money having the word "god" on it, has anyone researched when that was first done and why?

Tenchi

08-28-2003, 05:13 PM

I have not forced any beliefs on you cyndiann but I have shared my beliefs with you. As for Wiccan's being satanists, I never said they were. I was merely saying how you were putting labels on people. Do you like labels being put on you? obviously not, so please don't label all of us.

Tenchi

08-28-2003, 05:17 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR> Then have a hard look at some of the christian posts here, the ones that claim "my way or the highway". That is exactly what I was complaining about, their inability to allow others their own beliefs. That isn't a knock on anyone, it's the same thing you are saying! LOL! <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Think about this post for just a moment cyndiann. What have I said that you find so forceful? Also don't you find yourself being just as forceful as some of the other Christians on the board. No I am not saying this to flame you, but I am asking you to think about what you are saying.

FLslimguy

08-28-2003, 05:56 PM

I would call myself an evolutionist...a Darwinist if you will. As an astronomer, I've spent many, many hours contemplating the universe and our individual insignificance.

The closest religion that I think harmonizes with the earth is buddism. I for one would love to see the word GOD removed from money and every statement our fundamentalist president udders. Don't we all get riled when we hear people praise Allah? Why should the (alledged) freeist country on earth be so segmentalist by referred to a god? Aren't we being somewhat unfair? And our president seems ignorant of the fact that he is in reality irritating the rest of the world with his Napoleonic strutting...big time.

Just look at the sentiments that get all puffed up when people start talking religion. I wonder how many deaths of innocent people a year occur in the name of God/Allah/Budda. What was historically a way to control the illiterate masses has now, in this age of the "internet and media in your face", turned into defiant war mongering. I'm sick of it all. If people really wanted to cherish their religion...which they have every right to believe, they'd just shut up and be KIND to one another.

R.M. Greenman

08-28-2003, 06:35 PM

FLslimguy, Evolutionist sounds like a good one. Many agnostis I know subscribe to that one. Keep on keeping on! I saw a bumper sticker that you would like: Evolve!

GO AWAY

08-28-2003, 07:27 PM

OOOOOO MORE ATTENTION...

WORK IT OUT...

BrianM

08-28-2003, 07:53 PM

From other posts, many may know that I am somewhere between theistic agnostic (meaning i'm not ruling out an outside influence, but haven't seen it yet) and atheist. It depends on the day, I guess. Many posts flame back and forth between Christianity and Others and focus on either beliefs which are not subjective or facts which are not relevent...such as Bible errancy. The fact that the Bible may have errors and that it was written by man, does not prove that Christinaity is not the truth, just like since we do not know 100% where the first life came from, doesn't mean that that evolution didn't happen.
But one thing that is well documented, but not taught in churches, is the turmoil, fighting and time that was involved in creating the New testement, and the rise of Christianity. Your preacher would like for you think that these 12 apostles spent some time in mountains, wrote what Jesus had told them and God made all the corrections to the rough draft. Well it didn't happen that way, and it is educational for all to see the chronology of the events of Christianity from time 0 ad to the modern age. See this link http://www.cwo.com/~pentrack/catholic/chron.html

I posted some other links in the other hot religious thread today, which gives more history of the church, and the heavy pagan influence, but I will not cross post the same thing here. These are reasons that I cannot believe that Jesus was who he was said to be, that modern religion does not reflect scripture in many cases, even it was true, which makes it invalid also, and that science has disproven many facts that are supposed thruths in the Bible.

GO AWAY

08-28-2003, 09:06 PM

WHAT I FIND IRONIC IS THE FACT THAT WHEN CHRISTIANITY COMES UP...EVERYONE ATTACKS IT...

BUT WHEN OTHER RELIGIONS COME UP...EVERYONE WANTS TO AGREE WITH IT SIMPLY BECAUSE IT'S NOT CHRISTIANITY...

LIKE IN THE OTHER POST...SOMEONE...WHO SHALL REMAIN NAMELESS WAS LIKE OOO LET'S HEAR MORE ABOUT THAT...

BUT WHEN IT COMES TO CHRISTIANITY PEOPLES MINDS SEEMED TO BE REALLY CLOSED...

HMMMMM HOW PECULIAR...

WHATEVER...

LOL...

THINGS THAT MAKE U GO HMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

BrianM

08-29-2003, 04:50 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by Miami_Newdist:
WHAT I FIND IRONIC IS THE FACT THAT WHEN CHRISTIANITY COMES UP...EVERYONE ATTACKS IT...

BUT WHEN OTHER RELIGIONS COME UP...EVERYONE WANTS TO AGREE WITH IT SIMPLY BECAUSE IT'S NOT CHRISTIANITY...
<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Miami...
I think that would be the same for any mainstream religion, Christianity, Islam, etc., but I guess that people are curious about what they are not familiar with. As for myself, while I am well educated in some areas, I managed to get through high school, a BS degree and a masters degree, without learning anything (relatively speaking) about world history. Until recently, I learned most of about the world by watching "The History of the World" starring Mel Brooks, which is kind of sad. Unfortunately, It is obvious that many Americans are worse off than myself in knowledge of world history, which creates many problems both in understanding life, and in preventing world problems from repeating themselves. What I am finding, is that many religions have very interesting roots, and as I said earlier, the Bible, Koran and other documents didn't just fall from the heavens as many people beleive.

08-29-2003, 08:07 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by Miami_Newdist:
WHAT I FIND IRONIC IS THE FACT THAT WHEN CHRISTIANITY COMES UP...EVERYONE ATTACKS IT...

BUT WHEN OTHER RELIGIONS COME UP...EVERYONE WANTS TO AGREE WITH IT SIMPLY BECAUSE IT'S NOT CHRISTIANITY...

LIKE IN THE OTHER POST...SOMEONE...WHO SHALL REMAIN NAMELESS WAS LIKE OOO LET'S HEAR MORE ABOUT THAT...

BUT WHEN IT COMES TO CHRISTIANITY PEOPLES MINDS SEEMED TO BE REALLY CLOSED...

HMMMMM HOW PECULIAR...

WHATEVER...

LOL...

THINGS THAT MAKE U GO HMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Actually the dividing line is not if one is christian and the other is not. The dividing line is when some posts just talk about beliefs in a personal way and others talk about them without respect for other's beliefs. The ones posting without respect are the ones I am addressing. There are some posting about christian views that I have no problem with.

You have decided to misread the purpose of my posts to make it into a personal attack or an attack on christianity when it isn't. Try reading with an open mind and you will get a different message.

If you can't defend your beliefs don't accuse others of attacks that aren't attacks. Your posts are getting more and more childish with each passing day. I'd suggest not posting at all if you want christianity to look like a respectable alternative.

GO AWAY

08-29-2003, 08:44 AM

Hey Brian,

Yeah I guess it is just peoples ignrance of this message board...It seems like when someone on here mentions Christianity people just automatically bring forth their biases about the religion...However, I have seen that when someone mentions another religion, (especially ones that have been deemed to have satanic like rituals) everyone wants to know more about it and accept it because it is not Christianity...

When someone nakes a valid point on here about Christianity it is immediately attacked...Yet, when other religions come up they are like "OH IS THAT SO, YEAH THAT IS AWESOME"...

It seems to me that they just want to bring the Christians down because they don't want to take the time to actually understand it.

I don't really care anymore, that is why I am just ignoring them and moving on...It's really not worth my time...Plus I know they are just attacking me once again without even adding any bit of understanding...They are quick to understand any other religion, but if someone argues for Christianity, it seems as though they blatantly want to refute it..So I am just over the small minds...

They are gonna find someway to make me look bad, but I am just over it...I am beyond the petty little games that are played on here...

I am a CHristian and PROUD to be one...I know what I believe and why I believe it...I have Joy and the world DIDN'T give it...and they CERTAINLY CANNOT TAKE IT AWAY..

But anyway, if you want to discuss it further just pm me, as I don't really read much of what every one else says in here...

R.M. Greenman

08-29-2003, 09:57 AM

Miami newdist, If you want ignorance, read some of your own posts! You seem to be a bit touched in the head. You don't even take the time to edit or fix your spelling. You wouldn't know a Satanic ritual if it bit you. You are the one that is making snap judgements. Most everyone in this country started out Christian and still found other paths. Those who live in glass houses should not throw stones.

GO AWAY

08-29-2003, 10:48 AM

what would you do to get to me...what would you say to have your way...BOOOOMMMM

IF AT FIRST U DON'T SUCCEED...SKYDIVING ISN'T FOR YOU...

LOL

Linguist

08-29-2003, 11:43 AM

I have been to church, and to bible camp. I have been uplifted by the songs, touched by the stories, and I've contemplated the messages of Christianity.

I have been in Pagan rituals. I have seen the powers of nature summoned, felt the energy of the earth flowing through me, and sensed the weight and freedom of being an independent practitioner.

I have been an atheistic scientist. I have sought to build truth from observation and first principles, accepting no authority but the scientific method. I have grappled with the limitations of reality and faced Decartes' dilemma boldly.

What am I?

I am a Christian, not because I think the Bible is an inerrant history guiding me to the glorious rebirth of Heaven, but because Christianity is the culture I grew up in, because that is the cultural basis from which I approach the world I live in. Mostly, I consider myself a Christian because at its root, it is a path of love and forgiveness.

I am a Pagan, not because I think deity is everywhere, nor because I believe I can influence the world with the power of ritual and magic, but because it is a path that does not see the world as human-centric, that acknowledges the value of that which does not serve us. Mostly, I consider myself a Pagan because it is a path of individual choices, individual responsibility, and individual power.

I am a scientist, not because I think spirituality is irrelevant to living well, nor because I believe science can guide us reliably to hard truths, but because science requires us to challenge our assumptions and question the basis of what we take to be true. Mostly, I consider myself a scientist because science teaches me humility through the knowledge that all truths are ultimately based on unprovable assumptions.

Love.

Responsibility.

Humility.

Vin

08-29-2003, 11:52 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by Miami_Newdist:
...when someone mentions another religion, (especially ones that have been deemed to have satanic like rituals).... <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>And exactly which religion would that be?

GO AWAY

08-29-2003, 12:00 PM

it must;ve been cold there in my shadow...

to never have sunlight on your face...

lalalalalallalalala...

the reason i deviate from answering peoples questions if because they are just looking for something else to fight about...and everyone says I am judgmental but of course they overlook the judgments they make..oh well...I'LL BE MOVING ON...

"Cause i'm too proud..too strong...no time for this i gotta move on...not feeling sorry for myself even though I ain't got nobody else...so I held my head high, my shoes are forward i...I made it...don't hate it,,,that's just the way it goes...I don't made it through...STAND ON MY OWN TWO...I'VE PAID...MYYY...DUUEEESSSS....TRY TO HOLD ME DOWN, YOU CAN'T STOP ME NOW, I'VE PAAAIIIDDDDD, MYYYYY DUEEESSSS" (I LOVE THAT SONG)...~anastacia

GO AWAY

08-29-2003, 12:03 PM

done made it through*...

Dolby

08-29-2003, 04:20 PM

I am also a pagan - practicing Wicca for the past several years. Having said that, I have no problem if someone is a Christian, I was also one for over 20 years. I do not mind discussing religion with someone, but to get into an "I'm right, you're wrong" debate that goes nowhere is pointless. I respect the right of people to worship as they wish. Some of the posts here have been less than respectful, to say the least!

Jochanaan

08-29-2003, 04:39 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by cyndiann:
Great post Vin!

The terrible way that christians have treated this planet speaks volumes about what is in their hearts. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>I agree, Cyndiann. So many "Christians," and I use the term loosely, have forgotten that the Lord God created the heavens and the earth and all that exists, and said "Behold, it is very good!" Fortunately, a number of true Christians cherish the earth and do all we can to protect it for our children. (And no, I do not include the President among them! /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif )

Dolby

08-29-2003, 05:51 PM

Jochanaan,

Good to know that there are Christians who believe that we must treat our planet with respect. Strange how some have forgotten that. Funny though, I remember constantly being told by my parents and by the nuns at my school that it was a sin to waste and to destroy creation. You don't often hear that message anymore.

08-29-2003, 06:50 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by Jochanaan:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by cyndiann:
Great post Vin!

The terrible way that christians have treated this planet speaks volumes about what is in their hearts. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>I agree, Cyndiann. So many "Christians," and I use the term loosely, have forgotten that the Lord God created the heavens and the earth and all that exists, and said "Behold, it is very good!" Fortunately, a number of true Christians cherish the earth and do all we can to protect it for our children. (And no, I do not include the President among them! /infopop/emoticons/icon_mad.gif ) <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Thanks for taking it in the manner it was meant to be taken. You seem to understand what I'm trying to say and I appreciate that very much.

GO AWAY

08-29-2003, 07:13 PM

lol...that is sooo funny...

Yet, you don't take stuff for how it is meant when I say it...

oh well...whatever...

"IT'S OVER..YOU'RE BEING SHUT DOWN...SORRY"...

LOL

This is a joke... LOL

over and out

Tenchi

08-29-2003, 07:48 PM

If I had of known people were going to start bashing each other, I wouldn't have brought this up. I thought most people would be more tolerant. I guess not. /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif

GO AWAY

08-29-2003, 08:14 PM

it is soooo not your fault Tenchi...this has been going on for a long time...I am just glad that despite the fighting and brutality I was able to actually connect with some christians and we are now tlaking outside of this atrocity...

My goal was reached and that is all that matters...

(and I can't wait to seethe criticism after I write this...oh wait..i ignore them anyway)...

People on here just i dunno...

"Opinions are like buttholes...everyone has one...and no one will admit when theirs stinks" _unknown...

Broadway's dark tonight...

Bob S.

08-29-2003, 09:52 PM

Trailscout, please explain how Jewish law leads one to accepting Jesus as the "Messiah?" If that were the case, then why do no Jewish people accept that belief?

And I kind of agree that one cannot find "his own way" without that gut feeling. That same feeling that led me to my own belief system also led me away from Christianity. That "feeling" that one gets is not necessarily "G*d." It can also be the universal truth of atheism, the naturalistic feelings of Wiccanism and their bitheistic beleifs, etc. And I do understand that a tenet of Christianity is that of proselytizing (I know I misspelled that) but they must also understand that, just like nudism is not for everybody, neither is Jesus.

And for me, the person who I have considered to be the most religious, in fact, she radiated an almost holy aura to me, was a girl whom I knew in college who was a Hare Krishna. She seemed to me to be the most at peace with her religion and the most in touch with nature.

What I say all out there is to accept others' beliefs for what they are. Accept that people can and will seek friendships with those who share similar beleifs. Don't judge others based on their religion, especially if you are not very learned about it. And most importantly, at least for me, don't assume that your religion has a monopoly on the truth.

How i see it on that last topic, G*d is all-knowing and all powerful. He knows what is the truth and what is not. He has as many names and faces as people on Earth. Only He knows if he is real, one deity, two deities, etc. You are only a mortal human who does not know the truth. You cannot, therefore, purport to tell anyone that they are right, wrong, or anything about their religion.

Bob S.

Trailscout

08-30-2003, 10:21 AM

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Bob S.:
[QB] Trailscout, please explain how Jewish law leads one to accepting Jesus as the "Messiah?" If that were the case, then why do no Jewish people accept that belief?

Hi Bob!

Jewish law created a system of sacrifice for sin until Messiah would come and fulfill the penalty of sin for all time for those who believe in him.

When I lived in El Paso, I visited with a Messianic Jewish congregation regularly and likewise Atlanta has a couple of congregations of Messianic Jews. Philadelphia Pennsylvania is is home to a vibrant congregation, where former members of the musical group Lamb now minister in Messianic worship. Among these congregations, they worship in the Jewish manner (somewhere between Orthodox and Reform in flavor) with utmost respect for Jewish culture. There are large numbers of people who were raised in the Jewish faith who have come to the decision that Jesus is the promised Messiah and yet they prefer Messianic congregations to European-style gentile worship.

To your other comment, I do not promote going by gut feeling at all times. The inner voice I referred to must be from divine revelation and must be consistent with what is in the Holy Bible.
Otherwise we must affirm the inner voice of every social deviant with a gun.

I understand that not everyone will choose to follow Jesus, but as an entity of the Godhead and Creator of the universe, he certainly has the right to ask your allegience.

Sure there are those who will not recognize his Lordship in this lifetime for various reasons. I will not speculate on the fate of those people, but simply say that the Holy One of Israel is merciful and our accountability before Him for our behavior is affected by how much or how little truth and light we have in this life.

I have studied Islam, a little bit of Taoist thought, Judaism, and read a bit about earth religions. I have found bits and pieces of good thoughts in each, but found no belief system that could compare to what accepting Jesus as God and Messiah can offer.

I do not claim to have a monopoly on the truth. Instead I claim that Jesus is the only way and the one Truth and the degree to which I follow him is the degree to which I understand the truth. That much I know. Jesus himself said that salvation is of the Jews, firmly refuting the claims of even the Samaritans to the undiluted truth. And of course, the Jew and Gentile alike can only find salvation through Jesus the Messiah.

Fresh Air

08-30-2003, 01:33 PM

Jochanaan,

Thanks for your summary on the SDA church. I'm not an expert on my own church, but from what I do know it sounded accurate and was portrayed very fairly.

Thanks,

Fresh Air

Vin

08-30-2003, 06:42 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by Trailscout:
I have studied Islam, a little bit of Taoist thought, Judaism, and read a bit about earth religions. I have found bits and pieces of good thoughts in each, but found no belief system that could compare to what accepting Jesus as God and Messiah can offer. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Try it this way:

"I have found bits and pieces of good thoughts in each, but found no belief system that could compare to what [INSERT RELIGION HERE] can offer."

Now you've got how all of us feel about our particular spiritual paths. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

Good post, by the way. I always enjoy reading how others experience their spirituality, what drew them to it, their particular perspectives on practice and philosophy....

BB,
Vin

Vin

08-30-2003, 06:47 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by Dolby:
I am also a pagan - practicing Wicca for the past several years. Having said that, I have no problem if someone is a Christian, I was also one for over 20 years. I do not mind discussing religion with someone, but to get into an "I'm right, you're wrong" debate that goes nowhere is pointless. I respect the right of people to worship as they wish. Some of the posts here have been less than respectful, to say the least! <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Very well-said! /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

I'm continually surprised at the number of more-or-less open Pagans who post here. I wonder if we're just attracted to naturism (not surprising given that many of our paths embrace it ritually), or if there's some other reason.

BB,
Vin

Bob S.

08-30-2003, 09:49 PM

Trailscout, I respect your belief system and assume that you respect mine. And that salvation is not necessarily something everyone strives for.

Now for the gut feeling, I am saying that one can be lead to any truth about the universe and it cannot be wrong to that person. If that truth leads someone to a life that is good and productive, then that person has succeeded in being the best person they could be with or without religion. And if you believe that we are all G*d's children, would He deny entry into His home to a beloved teacher, mother of three who raised happy, healthy, and successful children just because she does not believe in Christianity?

No more of me debating religion in this topic. It is just too personal a topic and I don't like where I am going.

Bob S.

Falcon46

08-31-2003, 06:24 AM

Well put Bob...

I started out writing a long reply to this thread, but decided to just hold down the backspace key... it's less important to me how others feel about my beliefs, after all, they are MY beliefs and I don't feel the need to justify, explain, or debate them to anyone but myself. But I will say this much... of all the denominations mentioned in this thread, I can't say I'm any one of them, and yet somehow I'm part of most of them. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Vin

08-31-2003, 11:47 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by Tenchi:
If I had of known people were going to start bashing each other, I wouldn't have brought this up. I thought most people would be more tolerant. I guess not. /infopop/emoticons/icon_frown.gif <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Don't worry about it. This is a topic that, oddly enough, gets brought up from time to time in the Religions area here. It usually follows the same pattern: we all explain our paths as best we're able, we all point out why we don't follow other paths, we get passionate about our beliefs, the furor dies down, and we go along until the next time.

It's just another normal cycle of things. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

BB,
Vin

Trailscout

08-31-2003, 08:35 PM

There is a great diversity of religious and political thought among nudists. I would like to think that we are strengthened by our diversity.

Thanks for offering your opinions, Bob. You express yourself well in writing.

Shalom!

Dolby

09-01-2003, 05:54 AM

Vin,

Thanks! I can't speak for other pagans, but some of my own reasons:

- the connection to nature
- recognizing our bodies as divine
- honesty, openness

I also have some interest in shamanism, and I feel certain that nudity can be very helpful in healing.

BB!

Vin

09-02-2003, 05:44 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by Dolby:
Vin,

Thanks! I can't speak for other pagans, but some of my own reasons:

- the connection to nature
- recognizing our bodies as divine
- honesty, openness

I also have some interest in shamanism, and I feel certain that nudity can be very helpful in healing.

BB! <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Who CAN speak for other Pagans? /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

Those are very similar to my own reasons:
- nature connection
- elimination of role reminders
- increased awareness
- better focus

Then there's the element of "it just feels right."

BTW, I agree that nudity has a positive health impact. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

BB,
Vin

Jochanaan

09-09-2003, 10:22 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by Fresh Air:
Jochanaan,

Thanks for your summary on the SDA church. I'm not an expert on my own church, but from what I do know it sounded accurate and was portrayed very fairly.

Thanks,

Fresh Air <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Thank YOU!

Jochanaan

09-09-2003, 10:38 AM

As I scan this topic I find that a lot of people seem to have had bad early experiences with Christianity and for that reason quit believing it. I can well understand that, since Christianity is based so strongly on experiencing God; I nearly quit myself at one point. And early experiences shape who we are to a huge extent.

But I have a modest proposal for those folks who have had bad experiences: Try reading the Bible on your own. It's not as difficult, or as judgmental, as a lot of people make it. (Certainly on nudity the Bible doesn't say nearly as much as some who believe in it.) Pretend you're just reading another history, or poetry, or even (if you read the prophets) science fiction. And whatever you believe, the life of Jesus is one of the great stories of all time.

(If my modest proposal is considered tantamount to proselytizing, I can remove it or transfer it elsewhere. But I love God, and it's natural for me to want to tell others how good He is--even if they don't believe in Him.)

09-10-2003, 09:58 AM

It makes sense to me to condemn all Christians because of one or two bad experiences. After all, I was married to a slut who gave herself to any man who had the money and any who didn't--including my relatives. Then I married one who criticized everything I said and everything I did. I'm supposed to assume that means that NO woman is any good, right? That's the same "logic" as condemning all Christians because of coming across some hypocrites who "claimed" to be what they weren't--Christians.

I agree that there are unfortunately some non-Christians who live far better lives than many who "claim" to be Christians. I could "claim" to be a jet mechanic, but that wouldn't make it so.

09-10-2003, 10:44 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by Jochanaan:
As I scan this topic I find that a lot of people seem to have had bad early experiences with Christianity and for that reason quit believing it. I can well understand that, since Christianity is based so strongly on experiencing God; I nearly quit myself at one point. And early experiences shape who we are to a huge extent.

But I have a modest proposal for those folks who have had bad experiences: Try reading the Bible on your own. It's not as difficult, or as judgmental, as a lot of people make it. (Certainly on nudity the Bible doesn't say nearly as much as some who believe in it.) Pretend you're just reading another history, or poetry, or even (if you read the prophets) science fiction. And whatever you believe, the life of Jesus is one of the great stories of all time.

<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Why do you assume that most ex-christians haven't read the bible?

Why do you assume they quit because of christianity? In my case it wasn't the actual religion but those who supposedly practiced it that had the problem.

And jon, why do you assume that we had only one or two bad experiences? In my case there has been a lifetime of bad experiences with christians, one after another after another in a very long lifetime series.

Jochanaan

09-10-2003, 11:28 AM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by cyndiann:
Why do you assume that most ex-christians haven't read the bible?

Why do you assume they quit because of christianity? In my case it wasn't the actual religion but those who supposedly practiced it that had the problem. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Perhaps my choice of words was poor. I should have said, "...because of bad experiences in churches."

As for reading the Bible, I assume nothing. But from long experience I know that there's a difference between reading something because someone assigned it, expecting you to find the proof of what he or she is trying to tell you, and reading it for your own curiosity. You're much more likely to get real benefits from reading when it's your idea. Also, it's a big book, not as big as, say, the Upanishads, but still big. Even many long-time church members haven't read the whole thing.

09-10-2003, 12:31 PM

I've read it many times, starting as a child.
I don't remember getting any "benefits" from it.

What would you call a benefit?

Swimguy

10-13-2003, 12:09 PM

I have found that any two people can experience the same situation and have completely different opinions of what happened. For example, two people are laid off from the same company. One person lets the experience ruin his life. The other one uses the situation to start her own company and become even more successful. What's the difference? We all take our own baggage or optimism to every experience in life. I chose to be more of the optimist because it makes all the hard blows in life easier. It also help me get over hurt feelings of people who probably had good intentions, but offended me. Sure, call me a Pollyanna! I guess I am, but I am not all bent out of shape all the time being angry about what other people have done to me.

healthnudt

10-31-2003, 08:36 AM

I was raised a Presbyterian. That's as close to the bottom of the Christian rope as you can go without completely slipping off.

When I discovered Paganism and Wicca, I was enraptured by a spirituality that felt real and wise and comforting, especially since it embraced nudity and sensuality as wholesome and life affirming.

In the last year I've wavered, unsure which of these faiths has more meaning and relevance to my life, but that's my problem. Thing is, I have found kind hearts and good people in ALL the faiths I've encountered.

Vin

11-01-2003, 03:56 PM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by healthnudt:
I was raised a Presbyterian. That's as close to the bottom of the Christian rope as you can go without completely slipping off.

When I discovered Paganism and Wicca, I was enraptured by a spirituality that felt real and wise and comforting, especially since it embraced nudity and sensuality as wholesome and life affirming. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>Oh, I don't know. I personally thing that Methodist is as close as you can get to Paganism and still be Christian. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

I remember that homecoming feeling on discovering this path. It was incredibly comforting and empowering to know that there were other people who believed what I did and that this belief system had a name. It meant I didn't have to reinvent the wheel, so to speak. /infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

BB,
Vin

Trailscout

11-01-2003, 04:46 PM

I was raised Methodist and we were taught stewardship of the Earth. It doesn't belong to us, it belongs to God. We are just the gardeners, trimming a little here and there, making a path, putting up a bird bath or two. The created world, though flawed from sin, still contains a message from the Creator. We have a solemn duty to convey to the next generation, that sacred trust, undiluted and undefiled. So much has been lost, but we must take good care of what we have. Nature has the means to heal herself if we will give her room to do so.

Jochanaan

11-03-2003, 07:45 AM

I'm with you, Trailscout! The earth must be cherished and preserved, and Christians should be among its greatest caretakers.

steve53

12-30-2007, 09:46 AM

I'm an atheist. nuf said.

Dail17

12-30-2007, 05:15 PM

Standard Issue Christian- Fairly conservative

John-The-Great

01-01-2008, 12:03 PM

I am a christian protestant.

NudistMetalHead

01-09-2008, 09:04 PM

I am a Modern Satanist.

naturistoftheyear

01-10-2008, 12:01 AM

Where I'm from, I'm something called a 'cultural catholic.'
That's someone who was raised a catholic but who hasn't set foot in a church for years. I only do so now for friends' weddings or relatives' funerals.

BTW, that's not the same as atheist, since I'm not anti-religious. I just think it's not necessary for me to be visiting a church each week or to be praying.

Maybe my views will change again come old age.

FishyDave

01-10-2008, 01:16 AM

Hmm, now where to start?

My mother is Catholic, my father Church of England. I wasn't really brought up to believe either. In fact, I dropped out of The Boys Brigade as a youngster because of their insistence that we had to attend the local CofE Sunday School.

I went to CofE primary schools, before being sent to a boys only Catholic secondary school (for reasons of the school's reputation rather than it's religious denomination.) Out of there and briefly into another CofE school, before ending up at a boys boarding school that was actually run (or at least funded) by the Quakers.

But at no significant point in my life has anyone pushed God on me, or even expected me or reasoned with me to believe. Neither of my parents were really religious (we never talked about God and never went to church) and apart from doing hymns during assembly at school, I never really had any exposure to religion.

I should add that I was deeply religious for a very brief period as a teenager. A pair of JW's turned up at the front door, said they were friends of my mother's (how can it possibly be ethical to promote religion by lying?) and fed me a load of 'evidence of the existence of God' that seemed to make sense at the time. The 'brainwashing' lasted all of three days.

Which pretty much leaves me as agnostic. I accept that there may well be a God, but I don't actually have faith that there is. Curiously, later in life, my mother has rediscovered Catholicism, though she tends to cherry-pick the bits of the religion that she likes. At her time of life, I suppose one of the primary functions of religion comes to the forefront - accepting your own mortality.

My son is baptised CofE, though that was the wife's decision rather than mine. I think she gave in to family pressure to be honest.

jimb95818

01-10-2008, 11:07 AM

I was raised Congregationalist. These days I call myself a dharma practitioner or Buddhist, if you prefer.

nakeduni

01-23-2008, 09:52 AM

Mother Nature is my god. She kicks ***.

Skinview

02-04-2008, 06:11 PM

Mother Nature is my god. She kicks ***.

It sounds like you are a Pantheist.

http://www.pantheism.net/

http://p199.ezboard.com/pantheism/bpantheism

nakeduni

02-05-2008, 09:20 AM

It sounds like you are a Pantheist.

http://www.pantheism.net/

http://p199.ezboard.com/pantheism/bpantheism

Thanks. This is going to be an interesting read for me. I may be a Pantheist, but I won't know until I go through it. I have my own view of the cosmos, physics, and life, which I thought was merely my own. I disagree with physicists on a number of things. Sometimes, I think they have been watching too much Starwar movies.

javaphile

02-06-2008, 04:23 PM

Episcopalian - "all the sacrament and half the guilt" of catholicism.

We are catholic with a small "c", free to disagree and question our faith without fear of persecution. Conservative, liberal, or nothing in between, we are all acceptable to God.

Though I only sporadically attend services, it is my heritage, and a place I feel comfortable.

Malkovsky

02-07-2008, 03:12 AM

I don't call my self Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Methodist, Buddhist, or atheist. I am more of everything. I don't belief the word in bible or the word of Koran or any other written piece of literature that was ever written by human kind because at the end it always comes down to murder.

I belief in a greater power and the spiritual world..I belief that if you are good person now you will be rewarded by that greater power your next life (yes I belief in rebirth :D)

I don't know...I am my own religion and my own follower. Do to others as you want other to do to you....or something like that.:laugh:

dbandme

05-05-2008, 04:14 PM

Christian, non denominational.

Pizzaguy

05-06-2008, 06:26 AM

I attend a Baptist church, I'm kinda non-denominational, tho.

I am in church each sunday and help with the sound/video systems, really love the people there and enjoy our time together.

I do not see a problem with nudism, as I don't see it as anything nessesarily sexual at all. (Taking a shower with the guys in high school wasn't sexual, so why is nudism considered sexual? That is a question I have posed to several friends, they usually cannot come up with an answer. It makes it fun to debate "anti-nudes" - I really p.o.'d a guy a few days ago with that question. He got MAD at me and walked away.)

G I Joe

05-08-2008, 05:25 AM

Presbyterian.

ki4kxq

08-05-2008, 06:15 AM

We are Southern Baptist.

Josh-here

08-05-2008, 08:43 AM

It's cool the number of practicing nudists on here who also practice a particular faith. I'm surprised at the number of Baptists and more conservative Christian churches represented!
But more power to ya!!

Josh

finchick

08-05-2008, 12:20 PM

i'm atheist. it's also a faith, isn't it?

DSailing

08-05-2008, 12:26 PM

I don’t want to label myself to any religion. I feel that we and all the rest of nature are part of a god being just like the cells of our body are a part of us. I believe that we are creators and that we create our realities through our thoughts and feelings.

wantago9

08-05-2008, 01:52 PM

I was raised a Presbyterian. Went to Catholic church a few years. Then stick with Baptist for very long time. I am now a head usher. :)

nuovonudo

08-06-2008, 06:39 PM

i'm atheist. it's also a faith, isn't it?

i've heard christian apologists say that it takes more faith to be an atheist than it does to believe in God. food for thought.

regards,
--nuovonudo

todgar

08-06-2008, 07:14 PM

I may have given a short answer to this before elsewhere, but I'll give a brief but somewhat more detailed answer here.

Religiously, I am fairly poly-spiritual and open to spiritual insights from a wide variety of religious traditions, but I more or less identify as a Christo-Pagan, that is to say, someone who combines Christian and Pagan beliefs and traditions. On the Christian side, I was originally raised Catholic, but I am now officially an Episcopalian/Anglican; however, I also honor the ancient traditions of the Orthodox Church, since I am partly of Slavic descent. On the Pagan side, I draw upon pre-Christian European and African diasporic traditions.

eagle59

08-07-2008, 06:38 AM

I was raised Luthern,but attended methodist, baptist, and non demominational churches when younger. When I married a good catholic girl she took me into her church and has dragged me back at every oppertunity she has to do so. Currently I am a non commited catholic who is unsure and confused about what reallly to think about the whole thing. ( Is nudity a religion!?)

Josh-here

08-07-2008, 09:48 AM

I'm Amish.

Part of the liberal branch known as the "Naked Amish"

just kidding ...... :P

Baretodabone

08-07-2008, 03:57 PM

I don't actually belong to any organized church, firm believer though.
I was raised in the Church of Christ, Dad was a Baptist, first wife was Catholic, current wife is Presbyterian.

nudecleaner

08-31-2008, 09:16 PM

I feel spiritually closer to God and the Earth when I am nude.

Croydon

09-01-2008, 02:49 AM

I am an atheist. I was raised Catholic. My mother later converted to protestant (pentecostal). After years of attending catholic and pentecostal churches, I came to conclusion that the concept of religion and god is as silly as Santa, tooth fairy, and easter bunny.

Nothing made sense and everything was just horse sh*t.

Just recently, I learned that my dad is an atheist as well.

Stu2630

09-02-2008, 09:14 PM

Croydon

I'm an atheist too. God-based religions just don't make any sense to me and the notions such as "sin" and "being saved" are ridiculous. People do bad things because they are weak and selfish and when they do, they usually suffer the natural consequences of their actions. The concept of "faith" means abandoning reason - in the case of the Abrahamic religions (Christianity, Judaism and Islam), that means believing what some ancient writings say even though they were written by people who had far less understanding of how the worlds works than we do.

The only religion which makes any sense to me is Buddhism, which is non-theistic, and has a beautiful, gentle and totally logical philosophy. It also doesn't require faith, instead inviting people to "reflect upon" its teachings rather blindly accept them.

Stu

WilliamCA

09-02-2008, 10:18 PM

Christian. plain and simple

WilliamCA

narod

09-03-2008, 03:54 AM

After moving through many different churches, and seeing that what was being preached on Sunday, wasn't being lived by those doing the preaching, I gave up. After ministers being caught with teen aged girls in the woods, priests and alter boys, etc, etc, I now belong to what I call the "Church of the Tree Stump". There is nothing like going out any day of the week, taking your clothes off, going for a walk in the woods and stopping now and then and sitting on a tree stump, and just talking to God. It's amazing what you hear in return. God seems to answer you in many ways when you're out in nature as God made you. My wife will sometimes accompany me on my "church" walks.

bernardc

09-03-2008, 04:09 AM

The denominations is of no importance,but Reformed(dutch reformed)

phillyswimmer russ

09-03-2008, 08:08 PM

I am a born again christian

Croydon

09-04-2008, 02:40 AM

Croydon

The only religion which makes any sense to me is Buddhism, which is non-theistic, and has a beautiful, gentle and totally logical philosophy. It also doesn't require faith, instead inviting people to "reflect upon" its teachings rather blindly accept them.

Stu
I was surprised to learn that my father and uncle, his brother, practiced Buddhism when they were younger. They both left b/c my they felt guilty about breaking the 1st commandment.

My dad did say that he was his happiest when Buddhist b/c it stresses on doing things to make YOURSELF a better person. As you say, Buddhism ask you to reflect and search for answers and to work on being the best person you can be.

I have read up and studied Buddhism but found it is not for me. Too much work and dedication and I am just plain lazy.

tj52

09-04-2008, 05:40 PM

I am a nude Presbyterian. I was born Catholic, grew up Catholic until I was married. We where married by a Methodist Minester and Catholic Priest. Then ended up going to a Pesbyterian Church and are still there.

bullet

09-05-2008, 11:05 AM

I'm a bit of a mutt. Spent many years in the military chapel program. Currently attending a Wesleyan Church.

earlash

09-16-2008, 05:49 AM

Just a follower of Jesus

sanua_chap

12-19-2008, 07:58 AM

I have been a part of various churches from different denominations, but I only ever describe myself as a Christian, or (preferably) as a follower of Jesus.

For what it is worth, my theological leanings are Anabaptist.

pahjo2

12-19-2008, 08:46 AM

Southern Baptist here. We are taught that even dancing is wrong the sight of the Lord. Wonder what the Baptist teachings about nudism would entail? I can only guess.
Stay Nude And Stay happy---I'm Always Happier When I'm Nude---Pahjo

David77

12-19-2008, 01:19 PM

Southern Baptist here. We are taught that even dancing is wrong in the sight of the Lord.

If you were Northern Baptist, which is now called American Baptists, you could probably attend a dance in the church social room.

mjmm65

12-21-2008, 01:06 AM

Keeping it to a nice simple answer here. i am a Catholic

zharth

12-21-2008, 04:07 PM

I guess some people are tied in by various things, such as family, but I really can't understand why someone would follow a religion that they don't fully agree with. I was raised as a Christian, but when I reached the age to make my own rational decision about my spiritual beliefs, I happily became an atheist. Since then, I've developed an affinity for nature-based paganism, but I don't believe that this compromises my atheism. The only "god" that is necessary in my life is the sound of the wind in the trees, the warmth of the sun on my skin, and the feeling of the grass beneath my feet. Anything more is extraneous.

Skinview

12-23-2008, 07:52 AM

sanua_chap

12-23-2008, 08:12 AM

... Since then, I've developed an affinity for nature-based paganism...

I'm not sure that paganism is something you can develop an affinity for, is it? As I understand it, the term is so vague as to be almost meaningless, unless you want to define yourself as someone who does not believe in one of the Abrahamic faiths.

Wikipedia seems to agree with this understanding, for what it's worth:
http://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paganism

zharth

12-23-2008, 04:32 PM

Thanks for taking an interest. :)

You might want to check out Pantheism. It sounds like it might be a closer fit.

If I wanted to, I could fit myself into any number of popular alternative faiths, including Zen Buddhism, of which I am fond. I choose to associate myself with paganism because it speaks to me. Pantheism sounds great. Maybe I am a pantheist; maybe you could call me a pantheist. But I couldn't call myself a pantheist because the term itself suggests a form of "theism", and that /would/ compromise my atheism, in my opinion. Sure, pagans are generally theists, but the term "pagan" is vague enough to include many different paths, some of which do not involve theism, and the term itself is far less offensive to my sensibilities. Plus, the term "pagan" inherently suggests an opposition to the Abrahamic faiths, and call me a jerk if you will, but I take pleasure in wearing the "pagan" title proudly.

Maybe it's just semantics, but it matters, to me.

I'm not sure that paganism is something you can develop an affinity for, is it? As I understand it, the term is so vague as to be almost meaningless, unless you want to define yourself as someone who does not believe in one of the Abrahamic faiths.

See above. "Paganism" may be a vague term, but it's hardly meaningless. It means many different things to many different people, and that's actually one of the reasons I'm so fond of it. I like to associate myself with witches, druids, and even satanists, but I don't follow any one of those specific paths. I'm a sympathizer. Spiritually, I am an atheist. But I've developed a fondness for paganism in its varied forms. Is that hard to believe?

On further thought, I could be a misotheist. :sneaky:

Redtan

12-24-2008, 08:52 AM

Atheist going on agnostic. May seem like a strange transition but it seems to me that if we call the first creative impluse 'god' or the 'god -force' (as some physicists are now prepared to do) it is abundantly clear that this physical force has absolutely no 'care' for the world (let alone individuals, sports teams etc.). In other words it is irrelevant whether a god force exists or not as it is not something which is involved in human life anymore than say 'gravity'.

Yes, I know I could be a gravityist but.....:D

Merry Christmas!

mel3652

12-24-2008, 10:58 AM

I was raised a Southern Baptist and now United Methodist.

Skinview

12-24-2008, 04:51 PM

I choose to associate myself with paganism because it speaks to me. Pantheism sounds great. Maybe I am a pantheist; maybe you could call me a pantheist. But I couldn't call myself a pantheist because the term itself suggests a form of "theism", and that /would/ compromise my atheism, in my opinion. Sure, pagans are generally theists, but the term "pagan" is vague enough to include many different paths, some of which do not involve theism, and the term itself is far less offensive to my sensibilities. Plus, the term "pagan" inherently suggests an opposition to the Abrahamic faiths, and call me a jerk if you will, but I take pleasure in wearing the "pagan" title proudly.

Maybe it's just semantics, but it matters, to me.I am totally with you on this. I am an atheist myself. Many years ago I got a shirt that says "Born again Pagan" on it, and I have worn it for exactly the same reason - its anti Abrahamic. Then much later I learned of neopaganism and I thought it was fascinating. I'm not really there theologicaly (other than being nonabrahamic), but I really envied the bohemian culture and the skyclad rituals. And then I discovered pantheism. I was very suspicious of the name myself, and it is rather misleading. In fact, a lot of pantheists aren't sure they like the name either, and debate calling themselves something else instead. But, for good or bad, its the name that someone attached to the idea first, and so its the one that stuck. Pantheisim is so new and obscure that it barely exists.

nakedstudent

12-26-2008, 06:01 PM

I consider myself a Christian first and Catholic second.

My priority is the relationship with Jesus Christ. I'm not always in agreement with the Catholic church though.

I found this DVD the other day about The Star of Bethlehem. If anybody is interested in astronomy and it's connection to biblical events, you'll be fascinated with the DVD. I highly recommend it.

http://www.bethlehemstar.net/

zharth

12-26-2008, 08:38 PM

I am totally with you on this. I am an atheist myself. Many years ago I got a shirt that says "Born again Pagan" on it, and I have worn it for exactly the same reason - its anti Abrahamic. Then much later I learned of neopaganism and I thought it was fascinating. I'm not really there theologicaly (other than being nonabrahamic), but I really envied the bohemian culture and the skyclad rituals. And then I discovered pantheism. I was very suspicious of the name myself, and it is rather misleading. In fact, a lot of pantheists aren't sure they like the name either, and debate calling themselves something else instead. But, for good or bad, its the name that someone attached to the idea first, and so its the one that stuck. Pantheisim is so new and obscure that it barely exists.

Cool. :hippy:

Honestly, I think we're getting bogged down with so many labels that it's becoming ridiculous. I just discovered something called "post-theism" that I can also sympathize with. Anyway, I think it would be better if they called pantheism something else, but I guess that's not an easy thing to change. In the meantime, I'll keep calling myself a pagan for the reasons that have already been stated. I definitely like the idea of skyclad rituals - I don't think pantheists are quite as well-known for those.

nakedstudent

12-26-2008, 08:48 PM

Cool. :hippy:

Honestly, I think we're getting bogged down with so many labels that it's becoming ridiculous. I just discovered something called "post-theism" that I can also sympathize with. Anyway, I think it would be better if they called pantheism something else, but I guess that's not an easy thing to change. In the meantime, I'll keep calling myself a pagan for the reasons that have already been stated. I definitely like the idea of skyclad rituals - I don't think pantheists are quite as well-known for those.

When I read your post I was about to suggest the creation of polytheism (meaning many views) But I think that means the belief of many gods like the ancient Greek and Roman traditions.

zharth

12-27-2008, 03:00 PM

When I read your post I was about to suggest the creation of polytheism (meaning many views) But I think that means the belief of many gods like the ancient Greek and Roman traditions.

You know, I was just thinking about polytheism. I think the trouble with the term "pantheism" is that if a person doesn't know exactly what it means, they could easily misunderstand the "god is all" concept for the "many divine spirits" concept that characterizes polytheism - like Shinto, for example.

Skinview

12-29-2008, 02:33 PM

I definitely like the idea of skyclad rituals - I don't think pantheists are quite as well-known for those.I'm not even sure there are any rituals yet. But I think pantheism would lend itself to skyclad rituals at least as well as any other religion. Its all about reverence for nature, and whats more natural than a naked body?

Fenris Drakon

12-29-2008, 04:11 PM

I consider myself to be an Agnostic, Pantheistic Neo-Pagen.

First, a question; What is god? A god to me, is a metaphorical embodiment of the ultimate power of whatever he or she represents. And to me, that is nature! Our mother earth is a god. It's early enviroment gave us life, and provided us with everything we need to survive. We are children of the earth, and so I worship the earth it's self and treat it as a devine being.

I belive in spirits to an extent. But I cannot comment on gods being transcendant spiritual beings.

zharth

12-29-2008, 07:02 PM

I'm not even sure there are any rituals yet. But I think pantheism would lend itself to skyclad rituals at least as well as any other religion. Its all about reverence for nature, and whats more natural than a naked body?

I think you're probably right. There is, however, a certain stigma about "ritual". I, for one, prefer an unplanned romp through the woods than a strict ceremony - all those rules and regulations and whatnot required for "proper" worship are as stifling to me as the wearing of clothing, and I'd rather do without it. Still, the /idea/ of occult rituals is very appealing to me.

Skinview

12-29-2008, 08:29 PM

I consider myself to be an Agnostic, Pantheistic Neo-Pagen.
We have THREE pantheists posting in a row!!??? Wow. Maybe there are more of us than I thought. A few more and we might have enough for a schism.

BTW, there is a forum / message board for pantheists:

http://pantheism.yuku.com/directory

Ren

12-29-2008, 08:46 PM

I am a recovered Catholic. I think Jesus was much cooler and more open-minded than his modern portrayal. I believe it would be arrogant to assume there are no higher powers. I believe in god(s) - who am I to know? I think it would be a cool concept for a god to control the ocean. I think it's not as cool to think a god would then wreak haphazard vengeance on poor people by raising the waters. I don't believe that a god wrote any books, but then again, who am I to know? I like the message that comes from modern Buddhist teachers the most. I do think there is a heaven, though I believe it's what we make of it (ie. people I want to be there will be there even if I'm not in their concept of heaven). I think Earth is where we're sorting it out, so there needn't be a hell.

The one thing I firmly believe in is being a good human and doing one's best to get along with all beings and working to protect, rather than exploit, the earth.

catholicnudist

12-29-2008, 09:07 PM

As a child I was brought up in the Episcopal Church. Now I am Catholic. A traditional one who attends the Traditional Latin Mass.

mzdab3000

01-02-2009, 12:02 PM

I am a raised Catholic, and an avowed nudist. I do not have any problem in reconciling my faith to my avocation, that is being a nudist.

I don't think anywhere in the Bible explicitly prohibits nudism, nor of body-freedom.

As long as our interest in nudism is not of prurient nature, we can freely enjoy the experience of being nude in mixed company.

And yes, I am very active in my faith, working in our parish, serving for the weekly Masses. And I am also an active Knight of Columbus.

jeffers

01-28-2009, 07:39 AM

You can add a practising faithful catholic to your list

enertronik

01-28-2009, 10:42 AM

Christian nudist here

Rabid_Clam

01-29-2009, 06:37 AM

________________________________________
As a bona fide ordained minister I actually do not subscribe to any of the popular religious sects. Most follow the bible. The bible is a good book, it means well but was written by ancient man to answer questions of ancient man as well as provide guidance on how to live. Those guidance terms are as good today as they were when they were written. But the stories in the bible are a crock, but have done what they needed to do in those ancient times and that is to answer so many questions.

So many parts of the bible were edited, deleted and added to by subsequent readers, including churches, that the bible now has marked differences from the original text and so is unreliable. Is also changed where the stories were told around the camp fire by many tribe and sub tribes over thousands of years by hundreds of languages and variations there in so that also has bearing on the meaning of key words that were misinterpreted and/or misunderstood in translations. So for that the bible is other than reliable.

Our technology of today is actually still out of the box new compared to the stories from ancient times. The key beginning of all this was when Copernicus explained the earth was NOT the center of the universe and all things revolved around it but under pain of death from the church he had to shut up. But he published his findings from his death bed and that was picked up by others and carried forward. Magellan Galileo made the first material tool, the telescope, and that helped confirm those writings and launched a new and accurate account of our environment.

Things lay status quo until about the early 1900s when Al discovered math that proved much of what happened, E=MC2. That was THE revolution that began the truth to so many things. The Hubble Telescope of only 25 years ago not only confirmed much of what Al provided us with but pointed to the beginning of time with evidence we can actually see.

We came to the point where science and theology collided on so many points. Yet one point became abundantly correct in both disciplines and that was Genesis and the Big Bang. Both profess the same thing: In the beginning there was a void. How true. One has to ask how ancient man came to that conclusion absent of so many thousands of years of learning and technology yet to be produced for many many thousands of years.

We still do not know the beginning of Man from our fossil findings so possibly that story in the bible ( and there are more than one stories explaining the first man and woman in the bible ) could point to something we can only commit to conjecture of theology as well as science.

There are religions of today I absolutely despise and others I (kind of) side with. Yet none please me. The bible did say the Jews were the chosen people yet never was it written that Judaism was the chosen religion, that has yet to be discovered. The bible explained many things but science has found hard evidence of some differences.

Over all I believe two basic things: God Almighty created this environment and all there is therein. Period. There is but one God, and ONLY one God and that does not include saints, graven images, rings, popes, or anything or any body else. Period. The second is that life did not evolve out of a chance gathering of chemicals and elements in a temperature to accommodate what was to happen but was created by God Almighty. I can't see how those chemicals can generate a consciousness and memory. That alone is a gift from God.

I do not discount other universes or other dimensions. Even Heaven is one other such dimension where we point 'up' to it but looking with the eye, the telescope, in a plane, in the space shuttle or even the Hubble that place 'Heaven' cannot be found in our dimension. But it is in fact there, out there some where in a place we cannot detect until the time is correct and circumstances are in place. There is a purpose and reason for all that yet we have so very much to do and learn here that is not for us to deal with until that time and circumstance unfolds.

A time will come when we will get all the answers. Time and the physics we know and depend on here are only for this dimension/universe, this one of many.

Gordon

natravellers

01-29-2009, 03:50 PM

Was raised Catholic, but am now a firm believer in evolution. Enjoy life. You are going to be dead a long time.

Rabid_Clam

01-30-2009, 10:51 AM

One said Death is a long time. Death IS part of evloution. As a species evolves the prior will die leaving the next to further advance. No one drives a Stanly Steamer to work anymore, Neanderthal Man no longer hich hikes along the hiways. Those two among 99% of all living things have expired to let the next generation 'rent' a spot on this island hurdeling thru space and time.

There is but one thing different between us humans and ALL the other living things,m we have a life after this in a different dimension we call Heaven or God's Kingdom. That is not the odd dimension at all, but in fact where we are now IS the odd dimension that is doomed to expire at some point. The next one has been here for ever, is here now, and will always be. It has no beginning and no end. Can you imagine that?

Gordon

Paul

01-30-2009, 07:31 PM

Catholic, fully embracing the teachings of Jesus through the Church, it's not easy following Jesus and doing his will.

Naturism is a celebration and an appreciation of the beauty of the human body made in the likeness of the Lord without being lead by the evil one in seeing the human body from a lustful or jealous manner.:)

mm1965

02-20-2009, 10:17 AM

A Naked Methodist here.

Simon-new

02-20-2009, 02:04 PM

God, has lead me to part of the Reformed Church's of America. It has a very interesting history, and truly grounded in understanding enriching my relationship with Christ

johnh_1972

03-02-2009, 12:03 PM

I am Eastern Orthodox, but am considering becoming Roman Catholic.

London Joe

03-23-2009, 12:36 PM

Sorry to be honest but I don't believe in God and consider religion an utter nonsense. I won't expand :)

RomperStomper

03-29-2009, 01:22 PM

atheism will eventually prevail. deal with it.

Rabid_Clam

05-23-2009, 09:51 AM

I am independent. I believe fully in God Almighty. I examine space and time, in that I see the wonders He has created and the beginning of what we only most faintly begin to understand, some refuse to begin to try to understand. Yet there are those who command new traits of what to believe and write what is correct using their own fantisy and obscure language and rules, none of which came from the Almighty. How off track can any group get but off they go! and in great numbers.

We are so ignorant as a species never mind as individuals. The most intelligent and educated among us know less than a micron of data of this universe full packed with it.

The answers we hold to be fact today are hence proven otherwise for new and over and over that goes. One thing is for certain, this all began. What caused it to begin? The only answer is God Almighty. There are two things that have always existed and always will exist, and those two things are time, and God Almighty.

Gordon

dweezle2

05-23-2009, 09:32 PM

Isn't every belief a form of religion? It I hold to a set of beliefs 'religiously' then even a belief in nothing becomes a religion, of sorts.

Bob S.

05-24-2009, 06:13 PM

dweezle: "Isn't every belief a form of religion? It I hold to a set of beliefs 'religiously' then even a belief in nothing becomes a religion, of sorts."

People believe that a certain way of governing is better than another way, but we don't call Republicans or Democrats forms of religion. Religion more or less focuses on the spiritual. In that case, atheism can be considered a form of religion only as far as the belief in no gods or higher beings. After that, it becomes a philosophy of living.

Bob S.

Skinview

05-24-2009, 08:04 PM

...Yet there are those who command new traits of what to believe and write what is correct using their own fantisy and obscure language and rules, none of which came from the Almighty. How off track can any group get but off they go! and in great numbers.I'm having trouble understanding what you mean to say.

The answers we hold to be fact today are hence proven otherwise for new and over and over that goes.That has happened often enough, but no doubt most would agree that we have learned a lot about the world that is true. We got to the Moon and eradicated smallpox, didn't we? Science works.

One thing is for certain, this all began. What caused it to begin? The only answer is God Almighty.Whoa, not so fast. There is no reason to think that there hasn't been a natural universe in some form forever.

There are two things that have always existed and always will exist, and those two things are time, and God Almighty.Or neither. One idea in cosmology is that time began at the moment of the Big Bang. You could sort of say that time has always existed in our universe, but in the sense that there was no universe before the Big Bang. But I don't think this is popular idea among cosmologists. I don't think God is a popular idea among them either.

In any case, its simpler to say that the Universe has always existed, than to say God always existed, and then created the Universe. And there isn't an explanation for why there would be a god, eternal or otherwise.

Archaewok1

10-13-2009, 08:08 AM

Pentacostal Christian here.

mmacdonaldca

10-14-2009, 04:01 AM

maliakei

10-14-2009, 01:48 PM

Raised Roman Chatholic. Currently have no beliefs, religion or faith. And can say I haven't been happier :)

(before I get jumped on, everyone deserves to believe in what they want to believe in...the problem comes when beliefs are forced on others)

Same here. We religiously went to church on Sunday, listened to the sermons, did the rituals, i.e. ad verses, listened to the choir sing, attended communion, catechism, confession, etc.

As a kid I never liked going to church because it was so solemn. We kids did not dare yawn, cough or sneeze. We just went through the motions, never quite understanding the logic behind it all. Most times the sermons were boring. Parishioners were often reminded that we're all sinners and we'll be damned to hell. Going to church felt like a punishment. The only thing which made sense to me was the 10 Commandments, so I still live by them today. I also believe in God, just not a God-fearing God, rather a God-loving God.

Some people don't agree with me, but that's okay. I believe spirituality is important to have in one's life -- helping others, having a happy heart, and living in harmony with one another.

DSailing

10-14-2009, 01:53 PM

I don't follow religion, but I do consider myself, others and all things spiritual. I think we are all a part of a being (god if you will) much like a cell is a part of our body.

Moontan

10-14-2009, 04:46 PM

Catholic, although you wouldn't know it by my actions. I guess you could say that I'm saving it all up until the final send off. LOL

Yogi Bare

10-15-2009, 12:45 PM

I was raised Roman Catholic and graduated from a Catholic college. My major in college was Religious Studies and my minor was in Philosophy. My goal was that after graduation, I would go on to the seminary and study for the priesthood. But, I got to my Senior year and decided that wasn't for me. I really don't know why, but it just didn't feel right. Also, I got to the point that I really wasn't getting anything out of attending Mass anymore.

Since then, I very rarely go to church, and when I do, it's usually because all of my family gets together at times such as Christmas, so we all go together.

However, I still believe in God and the Ten Commandments and live my life accordingly. I have high morals and a desire to be of help to people whenever I can without expecting anything in return except maybe a "Thank You".

naturistoftheyear

10-15-2009, 06:09 PM

I'm from a Catholic family, went to Catholic schools (mind you, that meant just two hours of religious classes a week, so that wasn't exactly a convent) but haven't gone to church regularly since I was 22 or so. I got married in church at the age of 31 though.
I still consider myself Catholic, but I don't necessarily follow or believe everything linked to that religion.
Living in a non-Christian country, I believe that having a Christian background actually made me better in some ways. The people back home are more polite, care more about helping the elderly, the weak, the underdogs and the Third World than those in the country I live in now, and I believe that's partly a result of being Catholic.

10-15-2009, 06:34 PM

maliakei

10-15-2009, 09:26 PM

Hey maliakei, just continue to obey the The Ten Commandments and believe in an all loving God, and his all loving son Jesus Christ, and you will have nothing to worry about!! Your all loving friend, gb

Thanks gb! I am doing just that. The Ten Commandments are good rules to follow.

Those were my perceptions of religion as a kid only from experiencing just one religion. We used to live across the street from a Baptist church and we'd hear lots of singing. Everybody sounded happy, but parents forbid us kids to go there. Never understood why.

In 2nd grade there were 2 groups which met after school for religious studies: Catholic & Protestant. My parents registered me for the Catholic weekly study, but one time I went to the Protestant study just out of curiousity. Oh that got me in Big trouble.

Is religion supposed to be so solemn? I just wanted to be a part of a church community but there are so many different kinds of religions out there. Since then I have visited churches of different faiths and feel at home in Presbyterian, Lutheran, and Unity churches.

Archaewok1

10-16-2009, 03:30 AM

Is religion supposed to be so solemn?

lol, no. I mean, sometimes a good quiet time is good, but sometimes God wants to rock it out and get crazy just like the rest of us would like to. God really is a fun God. The Bible says "17For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit" (Romans 14:17). God wants us to be happy, and he invented the concept of extreme happiness (in a good way). Jesus said: "10The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." (John 10:10, and I use the NIV translation of the Bible for my references here). Did you know there are Christian rockers out there, and even Christian heavy-metalists? There are all kinds of people in the kingdom of God, and some of them really specialize in having fun. Some of the older more traditional churches like to have things quiet, but if you find a good pentacostal/charismatic church, it should be at least slightly more upbeat. Though just because a church says they are one thing doesn't mean they are following God like they should.

I have a pentacostal church I watch their sermons regularly online (tv webcasts), and the people are really real and joke around and stuff. It may not be like that every sunday, but I still think they a great church. If you want to check it out, it's www.ibethel.org for their homepage site, and under the features tab, and then clicking on the sermon of the week should be able to get you to the audio and possibly video sermons for that week. You can also go to http://www.ibethel.tv/media/free , which has all their sermons and some random recorded tv stuff on their from the church, and can watch it free, though they ask you for an email to watch the whole programs.

Anyway, best of luck on your journey

PappaBare

10-16-2009, 04:08 AM

Was a member of an AG Church, but just have not gone back since June of this year. Seem's no one has missed me, and I was very active in that church.

I have pretty much lost faith, and really enjoy more time in the great outdoors enjoying the creation from the Creator.

Commander Cool_87

10-21-2009, 04:35 PM

I'm a deist, I believe in reason.

Amoure's_challenge

10-27-2009, 09:09 AM

I was raised a Catholic. I found it too hypocritical. I am Spiritual. I like to say I am a Bokononist. It was a made up Religion in a book by Kurt Vonnegut. Worship can be with a friend. You oil your feet & worship by rubbing your feet together while thumbing your nose at God. :laugh:

I have never performed the ritual. Amoure

geraldstacey

11-23-2009, 01:32 AM

my wife and I are both Christians and naturism is just a beautiful expression of our faith, accepting firstly the beauty and creation of our bodies and admiring the the same in our fellow naturist. It saddens me greatly that society in general has to sexualise what is the most perfect creation in the human world.

Naturism to me goes beyond the physical imagery to general acceptance of other peoples faith, belief, life styles personalities it is a great leveler, no one wears a badge or a uniform to signify power or authority, you are accepted upon the merits of who you ae and not what you are.

Finally there are no screens to hide behind as the there are in the textile world, I find that true naturists are open honest respectful and just ordinary people with nothing to hide

GORDON2BARE

11-23-2009, 02:42 AM

Agnostic Spanish Baptist

naturejim

12-11-2009, 01:46 PM

I am Presbyterian. I don't think religion has that much to do with whether or not you enjoy being nude.

paladin

12-13-2009, 12:47 PM

Non Denominational, Charismatic Christian, have been most of my life. Although people who practice naturism/ nudism are definitely a minority, I have found a good amount that are ok with the idea. They just chose not to practice it.

northlondoner

12-13-2009, 12:51 PM

On the rare occasions that I have discussed religious matters in a naturist sauna or spa, I have found that there are many people who are religious and attend their chosen place of worship on a regular basis. I am not alone.

mlrm201

12-13-2009, 01:32 PM

Jewish man here. From the people who brought circumcision to the world shocked

yevgheny

12-29-2009, 02:03 PM

Formally - Baptist, but with a very broad thinking allowing for truths present in other denominations and religions as well

GORDON2BARE

12-30-2009, 01:04 AM

Agnostic Spanish Baptist

trumpeter

01-02-2010, 06:41 PM

I am a Baptist myself, but I was raised in a non-denominational church.

MeBNude

01-03-2010, 08:52 AM

I am faithful or is that "faith full?" Both are applicable.

naimike

01-04-2010, 12:19 PM

Well I am very happy to be Christian Catholic and nakedness is not against my faith witness the late great pope John paul's thesis on "love and responsibilty" when he wrote that simple nakedness should not be confused with shamefullness - indeed it is accepted that Christ was crucified naked as that was the practice and as we are made in the image of God we should not be ashamed of being naKed. I have been to services of other faiths but I am steadfast in my own. And I intend to remain so and a naturist until I am called to the next life.

nan101

01-09-2010, 06:37 PM

I consider myself to be Catholic and am going through the RCIA process to make it official. I personaly agree with Pope John Paul's statement and do not see why the church is still so uptight about nudity.

Oldsig

03-07-2010, 04:35 PM

I am Pagan, having been initiated into the Celt-Gael Tradition, an Irish Trad, in 1962 while serving with the British Army in Germany. Celt-Gael is a skyclad (nude) Trad brought about as a renewal of the old Irish traditions which later had, I think a Gardnerian influence grafted onto it which would explain the skyclad mode of worship/practice. My experience of late has been primarily with eclectic Pagans in Kingston and privately with my late wife and a few others in the Celt-Gael manner.
Pagan spirituality is extremely diverse primarily due to the vast amount of information, both true and false available today. Most however, do consider a duality of God and Goddess in whatever form they manifest. The Celt-Gael is, being Irish, triplicity based but does include the God and Goddess figures. If there is enough interest I would be willing to open a Pagan spirituality thread.