Atheist Sunday Assembly goes worldwide, the future is bright for non-believers

reply to post by Grimpachi
Thanks Grimpachi some people just don't get it and never will, or just don't want to, start with.

You say right ,they say left, you say up ,they say down, it's just their nature.

It is great some people have enough brain to understand something, without having to make it into an argument that is frivolousness.

But is like joke Guy says I swear on my Mothers life, only thing is, his Mother has already been dead for ten years, so put that in your boot and smoke it.

Just for note, legal or not I would never swear on my Mother's life, live or deceased. I would just plead the 5th amendment, as to not intimidate myself, now don't get all wound up, that is like three stooge's joke , I didn't mean it. Nok, Nok, Nok!

Originally posted by windword
reply to post by Grimpachi

 

It may not be a rule for jury duty. Attorneys have a lot of leeway when dismissing potential jurors. I was dismissed from jury duty too, because the judge asked us if anyone was offended by ultra religious people, and I raised my hand. TADA!

Here's a list of States that prohibit atheist to serve:

Arkansas, Article 19, Section 1: No person who denies the being of a God shall hold any office in the civil departments of this State, nor be competent to testify as a witness in any Court.

Maryland, Article 37: That no religious test ought ever to be required as a qualification for any office of profit or trust in this State, other than a declaration of belief in the existence of God; nor shall the Legislature prescribe any other oath of office than the oath prescribed by this Constitution.

Mississippi, Article 14, Section 265: No person who denies the existence of a Supreme Being shall hold any office in this state. North Carolina, Article 6, Section 8 The following persons shall be disqualified for office: Any person who shall deny the being of Almighty God.

South Carolina, Article 17, Section 4: No person who denies the existence of a Supreme Being shall hold any office under this Constitution.

Tennessee, Article 9, Section 2: No person who denies the being of God, or a future state of rewards and punishments, shall hold any office in the civil department of this state.

Texas, Article 1, Section 4: No religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office, or public trust, in this State; nor shall any one be excluded from holding office on account of his religious sentiments, provided he acknowledge the existence of a Supreme Being.
www.americanhumanist.org...

Florida's not on the list! Lucky you!

Oh my gosh! As I have said in this very thread a few times - I am a Christian. I would say that many religious people and church-goers would probably tell me that my beliefs are wrong and I am going to some fictional place called hell, but nonetheless I am a Christian. Having said that, this thoroughly offends me! What kind of religious, scared little sheep would ban anyone from anything simply because they do not believe in God? I would absolutely battle anyone who would deny an atheist anything simply because they don't believe in God.

To my atheist and agnostic friends in here, please believe me that there are some of us out there who call ourselves Christians that do not behave in this very un-Christlike manner. We will stand up for you! We do not believe in some eternal torment that could only come from the tiny mind of man - a fictional place designed to scare the religious into being controlled. My God is not this petty, jealous, small minded man-like being. My God loves everyone unconditionally (as Jesus tried to teach) and will welcome all regardless of their beliefs or lack of beliefs.

I do understand how you must feel about Christians, but we are not all hypocritical, judgemental sheep.

The problem is that some Christians try to dictate how other people should live. It makes perfect sense that there are organizations where the people are non-believers. Because if all the non-believers stick to themselves the fairy-tale believers will run society. If the non-believers start groups, then they can combat the fairy-tale influence. This group is also a good ally for those who believe in their lord and don't want to mix religion and politics. And, if you are going to have an organization you will have meetings where you bring up topics that are relevant. For a non-believers we don't look up things in an ancient book. Instead we debate and use some common sense and some logic. This is a good thing.

Originally posted by Grimpachi
reply to post by windword

 

As long as there are laws such as those in this country then the ones who cry foul and claim faith is being persecuted in the US do not have a leg to stand on.

If you are an atheist in the US it is better to stay quiet about it. I for one hope the organization spreads to America because it will be a step in the right direction where being an atheist will not be so taboo.


As far as being excluded from jury duty it was much like your own experience but it was a simple question of do I believe in god. I am not upset about not being selected it wasn’t like I wanted to be there but for a country that has separation of church and state we have a ways to go.

my 2 cents...seperation of church and state in america is simply a lie, if it wasn't, those laws in those states would be null and void.

Originally posted by nidstav
This group is also a good ally for those who believe in their lord and don't want to mix religion and politics.

That is a very true and accurate description of what the Sunday Assembly is all about.

We are very open to people of all faiths. We only include the word atheist just to let people know that there’ll be no faith based thinking. During the service there is no aggressive militant atheism or bashing of religions. We’re very firm on that.

All are welcome to socialise, have fun, and generally contribute to our wider society.
It is a religious/faith free zone, where the inspiration for kindness to fellow man or charitable works for the wider community is born of genuine altruistic thoughts, and not from fear of the wrath of a higher power or an unenjoyable afterlife. No-one is excluded, regardless of beliefs, just evangelising and attributing reason to unprovable entities is not accepted in the community.
As I've said previously, I've felt unable (and actually been excluded) from becoming involved in the good works of my local churches due to my lack of faith.
The Sunday Assembly aims higher than such a discriminatory ethos.

Originally posted by grainofsand
After the outstanding success of the first Sunday Assembly at a former church in London, the demand has spread and local groups are now being formed across the UK, and as far afield as New York (US) and Melbourne (Australia).

www.google.com...

Britain's atheist church is barely three months old but it already has more "worshippers" than can fit into its services, while more than 200 non-believers worldwide have contacted organisers to ask how they can set up their own branch.

But the Sunday Assembly's success -- 400 Londoners packed into last week's two services, while 60 had to be turned away at the door -- suggests many urban atheists crave the sense of community that comes with joining a church.

In the last few days many groups have now been formally set up all over the UK for atheists to be able to celebrate life, enjoy interesting talks and music, in an environment free from religious zealotry.
As one who does not believe in any gods I'm excited about meeting likeminded folks for quality discussion and enjoyable social networking. Religious churches have that sense of community but now it seems we godless types can enjoy the same benefits without any mystical teachings which are clearly unnecessary for social cohesion.

If you do not believe in any gods but look forward to meeting likeminded people in a rational thinking friendly social environment, then here's a couple of links...

www.facebook.com...
sundayassembly.com...

Oh, and any silly comments like atheist-church oxymoron or whatever, save the embarrassment of raising it here, the Sunday Assembly is NOT a church, it is a regular meeting place for people who do not believe in gods, to be able to enjoy that same sense of community and celebration of life, but without any unproven wild claims of magic and mystery. Everybody likes to be inspired through interesting talks, and most of us like to sing songs in a social setting while enjoying the added benefits of a social group with shared views on life.

Looking forward to seeing how this grows. 32% of my home UK nation (Wales) declared 'no religion' in the 2011 census, 25% of England, it seems our people are finally waking up to the idea that being 'good' is not inspired by [insert any gods] but more about compassion for fellow humankind. How wonderful to have places for non-believers of gods, free from the damnation spouted by many who do.

You are still missing the point. You are creating a group of people who believe the same thing about the non existence of God. This creates a group that separates itself from others. This proves Atheists love sarcasm. Sorry guys but seriously. Why not simply create places where we can all meet and respect that we all have different opinions. If we are coming together to love and grow than why should anyone be excluded? Can't we all just live together peacefully than we won't even need to worry if there is a judge, a heaven or hell? Because life will be worth living if we have love and peace.

If love becomes the thing you pursue than love becomes your God. The bible says God is love so you know if you pursue love you will find love.

Originally posted by sacgamer25
The bible says God is love so you know if you pursue love you will find love.

The same Bible which says this yeah?

Zephaniah 1:2-6

"I will sweep away everything in all your land," says the LORD. "I will sweep away both people and animals alike. Even the birds of the air and the fish in the sea will die. I will reduce the wicked to heaps of rubble, along with the rest of humanity," says the LORD. "I will crush Judah and Jerusalem with my fist and destroy every last trace of their Baal worship. I will put an end to all the idolatrous priests, so that even the memory of them will disappear. For they go up to their roofs and bow to the sun, moon, and stars. They claim to follow the LORD, but then they worship Molech, too. So now I will destroy them! And I will destroy those who used to worship me but now no longer do. They no longer ask for the LORD's guidance or seek my blessings."

Leviticus 20:9

All who curse their father or mother must be put to death.

Deuteronomy 20:10-14

As you approach a town to attack it, first offer its people terms for peace. If they accept your terms and open the gates to you, then all the people inside will serve you in forced labor. But if they refuse to make peace and prepare to fight, you must attack the town. When the LORD your God hands it over to you, kill every man in the town. But you may keep for yourselves all the women, children, livestock, and other plunder. You may enjoy the spoils of your enemies that the LORD your God has given you.

Genesis 22:1-18

Take your son, your only son – yes, Isaac, whom you love so much – and go to the land of Moriah. Sacrifice him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains, which I will point out to you.

...the same God who allegedly killed everyone on the planet in a flood except one family?
I could go on if you like, but that's enough for now to explain why I do not see how this entity represents much love in my eyes.

Oh, you may like to point out that the new testament changed the rules a bit, but then I'll just question how omnipotent and omniscient this God really is if he/she/it failed to have a good plan from the start.
As I've said, if you or anyone else are not attracted by a religion/faith free zone, then simply ignore it. There is certainly no harm, and to repeat again, it does not attack religion, and actively discourages such attacks.

Yet you didn't bring up my "organised religion" quote?? Hmmmmm wonder why?? Because you are a HIPPOCRIT to the fullest extent......You are excited about an atheist church!! Hippo motha effin Crit to the fullest term of the word..... You sure won't be able to prove me wrong is all I can say about your quote above.....But yes I can prove you wrong, there is a big difference there, time will tell......Best of luck to you and your friends.....Hopefully you like warm weather!

reply to post by Chrisfishenstein


So, this is you showing the love, compassion and mercy of Jesus Christ to an unbeliever, is it?
You sound like a Pharisee. All law, no love. For someone who (i assume) claims to be a Christian, you sure don't sound much like Jesus.

reply to post by Lucius Driftwood

That is typical of the angry sounding "You'll burn!" type faith which draws me towards a religious free environment, such as the Sunday Assembly.

reply to post by grainofsand


Do you realize that you are judging both the bible and God with your argument? Let me explain. Even if you don't believe in the historical accuracy of the OT you must understand that all of the bad things that happened in the OT are still happening to this very day.

I only see three choices.

1. No God.

2. God/Aliens/... created us but exists completely away from us not imposing their will on us, thus we are accountable for all that we see and we often blame the creator for these issues.

3. God is love. Everything that has ever happened both good and bad have happened under the direction of God. Jesus told Pilot that he had no power over him other than that which was given to him by God. This is true for all of us. No one can interact with us outside of God's will.

You can either believe that God loves us all, and that what we see is not what we see. Accept that God is in control and that his plan and judgments have been righteous, and will continue to be righteous. Believe that right now you are exactly where God wanted you to be. Now ask, What Next?

God is love so ask love, the source of love, for love. Listen for the guidance of love and follow it. If you're not sure if love has rules, I would say avoid hurting others at all cost, up to the point of turning the other cheek like Christ instructed us.

In the bible God says clearly that I make both the good and the bad. He tells us where evil spirits come from. He admitted that he sent Saul an evil sprit to torment him. He admits that he is the reason for our anxiety. He admits that he knew about all the wars and death and famine and that he caused it.

What he asks of you is have faith that what is greater than you is also greater than your understanding.

The bible says God is love, and for you to find him for yourself all you must do is pursue love. Believe me or not the pursuit of love sounds good to me no matter who says it.

Bible says fear is the begging of Wisdom. If fear is the begging than love is the end. God is love.

reply to post by sacgamer25

I presented a perfectly clear explanation with quotes from the Bible which demonstrated why I do not believe the Abrahamic God represents what I consider love to be.
My reply also questioned the imperfection of this God due to changing the rules later on in the new testament.

If you believe all that then fine, I'm happy for you to take whatever comfort you feel it brings in your journey through life. I do not believe or need any of it, or any other gods, from Thor to Shiva.
It is why I welcome an environment free from religion in the company of other non-believers.
As I've said previously, you are welcome to ignore such an environment. It does not attack religion and actively discourages people from doing so.

reply to post by grainofsand


atheism has moved from being the pseudobelief of the somewhat educated to the moroseness of this?

Originally posted by bigfatfurrytexan
reply to post by grainofsand

 

atheism has moved from being the pseudobelief of the somewhat educated to the moroseness of this?

Nope, atheism remains the lack of belief in a deity.
I also fail to see any moroseness in a gathering of likeminded people for entertainment, interesting discussions and community spirit. Perhaps you define morose differently than what it is generally accepted to mean?

reply to post by grainofsand


A simple "gathering of people" is not what this is. It is a ritual meant to mock those whose beliefs are different.

I am not a Christian, and even I can see it for what it is. Atheism should be a "lack of belief". It shouldn't be about using theistic items "ironically".

Originally posted by bigfatfurrytexan
reply to post by grainofsand

 

A simple "gathering of people" is not what this is. It is a ritual meant to mock those whose beliefs are different.

So, apart from that just being your personal opinion, do you have anything such as quoted sources, or other examples to support your claims?

I am not a Christian, and even I can see it for what it is. Atheism should be a "lack of belief". It shouldn't be about using theistic items "ironically".

Why not exactly?
Any group of people is free to meet under a shared ideology which does not promote hate.
Theists and people of any faith are welcomed, no one is excluded. The expression of faith however is not welcomed. That is the attraction to me. As I've said many times here, if it is not for you then simply ignore it, but please do not make unfounded claims regarding the intentions of myself or anyone else who supports these gatherings.

reply to post by grainofsand


what kind of quoted sources do you want? How about the headline of this thread, that makes special mention that this is or non-believers. Or the source article in the OP that makes sure to mention that the "assembly" is being held at a former church.

I rendered an opinion on what I see as useless and stupid behavior on the part of atheists. It reminds me of some of the stupid rituals that were put in place in Satanism in their attempt to mock the antithesis of their existence.

So let me ask you....in the headline....what is meant when it is said, "The future is bright for non-believers"?

reply to post by bigfatfurrytexan

"The future is bright for non-believers" is my personal assertion as someone who looks forward to an environment free from evangalising or religious zealotry, or any other expressions of unprovable faith.
To me, such an environment is something I feel attractive as a social option to hook up and network with fellow non-believers. Although people with faith are welcome, it is obvious that the majority will be people such as myself who do not believe in invisible entities.

The Google/AFP article of course mentions that the London meeting is held in a former Anglican church. The church died due to dwindling numbers, was renovated, and it is now available to rent for anyone from bands to youth clubs. The Sunday Assembly picked it for location, size and price, no mystery or conspiracy there, I've explained this many times in this thread.
Other groups are starting up in back rooms of pubs/bars and other function rooms as available in each local area.

Again, if it's not for you then ignore it, but it is not helpful looking for sinister undertones which simply are not there.

What about Buddhists? Are they allowed to go? I'm mean it's a religion but one that does not believe in a god.

Also I do think a disused church for the 'Assembly" was chosen for irony from an atheists are superior stand point. I'm sure there were many buildings that could have been chosen.
I mean, atheists meeting in a disused church on a Sunday? Come on...

reply to post by grainofsand


Other than my comments in this thread, I will for the most part ignore it. Maybe in the future when another silly atheist action takes place, I will reference this silly atheist action.

Some people need religion. A world without religion would not be a good place. At least, not yet. In the meantime, it does little good to try to separate yourself from it. It pervades your culture.