odd-one-out!

odd · #1 25th July 2012, 01:38 PM

Hello everyone
Brief rundown of what led me here:
Born 40 years ago into a catholic household, primary education at catholic schools (which means time served as an alter boy!). Went to public high school, as I had lost any interest in church by then. Was deeply affected many years ago when I read Paul Davies 'God and the New Physics' and enjoyed many of his other books too, 'The Mind of God' and 'The Fifth Miracle' come to mind. Been reading related topics ever since.

A motivation for me to join this group was my recent attendance at church, the first time in decade’s, for a wedding. I had forgotten what it was like; I was disturbed by what I saw. Grown men and women chanting praise to god, and repeating slogans after the priest, it had all the hallmarks of brainwashing. (It also reminded me of the Simpsons episode where Homer joins a cult, the ‘Movementarians’). Then the priest, a 60 year old virgin, stood on the alter and doled out some earnest marriage advice.I found the whole thing rather appalling.

Following this experience I have formed the opinion that it is complacent for atheists to simply enjoy their atheism in silence, as I have done. If others are willing to sprout their beliefs in front of me, I believe I have a responsibility to respectfully respond with mine, and perhaps force them to actually consider what they say they believe.

AFA Admin · #2 25th July 2012, 01:40 PM

Hi, odd.
This is a message sent to all who find their way to these forums.

We like people, and we like facts too!

We're friendly but we're skeptical, and if somebody calls for proof, it's not an accusation. Only the strong ideas thrive here: we try to respect people. (We do not tolerate personal abuse.)

You may already have visited these other handy places:
* New Member Information
* Welcome from AFA president
* For those interested in learning, I recommend the Atheism Resource Thread maintained by Fearless.
* And a quick look at our reserved spot for belief-based discussion, Fantasy Island, includes The Great Big List, a sort-of "things we've seen before" for those of faith, and general rules of argument for the forum.

If you've got questions, please ask. Moderators have red name tags, but many of our friendly people may have the answers you need.

Enjoy the forums. We hope to see plenty from you in discussions.

Have fun.

crocoduck · #3 25th July 2012, 01:53 PM

Welcome, odd

Glad you made it here.

Stubby · #4 25th July 2012, 01:58 PM

Gudday odd

Welcome to the forums!

Voltairine · #5 25th July 2012, 02:05 PM

Welcome Triple O (not the burger place)!

You should fit in right at home here.

BlueDevil · #6 25th July 2012, 03:21 PM

Welcome 'odd'. Interesting to hear your story. I hope you gain some further insight from this forum.

EvilDRMike · #7 25th July 2012, 04:47 PM

Welcome Odd. Sounds like you will not be the odd one out here. I know I feel distinctly less odd around these godless weirdos than in any other group. This seems have more to do will people being here that use their brains for something other than reciting immoral and outlandish faerie tails.

EDM