The Theist Sanctuary

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I don't always go to church, but my faith is strong.

Seems to me that The Church was established by Jesus (or Paul, we could have a very lively discussion on this topic!), to 'do His work on Earth' and to show His love for all people by the members actions.

However, it seems to be the church(es) that are costing people their faith in many cases.
Specifically, when a denomination or local church body changes policy to adapt to the surrounding culture, rather than obey clear guidelines from the Bible. 'Everybody does it, so it's okay' isn't QUITE what John The Baptist, for instance, died for!

Any thoughts?

Sylkat

Yeah, I particularly disagreed with the one I was supposed to go to, seem to ignore Jesus' message about giving, selflessness etc. Why would they wanna do all these things like Jesus said? More convenient not to.

Dear Bun, Absolutely! How can the sign say 'Christian Church, or Church of Jesus, or church of Jehovah' or 'Church of_______(St Francis, St. Claire, St. John of the Cross, for instance), when the followers of God, Jesus, or the admirers of these saints were clearly called to a life of spirituality, NOT materialism!
It's looking more and more like the original Quakers got it right, perhaps the Shakers, too!

Sylkat

"Woo-hoo!" said the Quaker...

Dear Shrox, From what I've read, there were no pulpits or any form of decoration in the early Meeting Houses, and possibly no crosses or other symbols. It appears that the people were encouraged to wear only gray or black or brown, to discourage vanity. Their church or culture seemed designed to disable anyone from appearing 'better than' or 'above' anyone else...there also seemed to be a disapproval of titles.
Not at all what is seen Sunday morning on American T.V.!

Sylkat

Yes, that is true about "real" Quaker. One reason there are no crosses is because it was a killing machine, but they have crept in because modern peoples seem to need symbols to display. There is the Quaker star as well.

Some have a cross and pulpit because the meeting house was a church by a previous group. Tearing it out means making a big deal about something that doesn't truly matter. Just don't care about it.

I am "plain Quaker" so I wear black, but I make it look good...damn evil vanity!

The Sabbath Jesus observed was Saturday. Sunday he could have watched a game if he wanted...

Dear Shrox, I have never seen a reference to the Quaker Star, could you explain it to me?
I did not know that the Quakers had returned to the Saturday Sabbath!

Sylkat

The first reference I have been able to find is 1658.

They hold their meetings on First Day, though, which is Sunday.

When I was a Quaker, I used to buy all my clothes from charity shops and wear no jewellery. I still dress quite plainly now, tbh. The 'plain Quaker' thing is mostly limited to the US. In the UK, they just try to dress simply and ethically.

Dear Puddingmouse, you used to be a Quaker? I don't think I've ever met a Quaker irl, and Now I've met 2 (well,one former) on WP!

Dear Shrox,I've been Googling to find the Quaker Star, not much information, BUT did you know that there is a Quaker Star hybrid rose? Couldn't find a picture of it, though, sigh.

Sylkat

In Cuba there is a group called the 'White ladies', or Damas Blancas'. They wear white and carry gladiolus flowers and walk on certain streets that the Cuban government allows them to. They are silently protesting for political prisoners held by the Cuban government.
Pope Benedict will be visiting Cuba and these brave, caring women will not be allowed to go see him, to experience the once-in-a-lifetime chance of attending Mass said by the Pope.
Should the government of Cuba have the right to deny them this?

Sylkat

Happy Easter to those who believe that He rose from the grave!
Isn't it great to be able to believe as we choose!

Sylkat

Are Jews allowed here?

Considering your post saved this thread from a 2½ years sleep, I'd say Jews are more than welcome.

I'm more inclined to think of Burke and Hare.