[UU only!] Age and Humanism/Theism (ritual, reject, church, experience)

[lilithu]

Just a little poll out of curiosity. Feel free to elaborate within the thread.

I have asked that only UUs respond to this poll. Nonetheless, I know RF and that some non-UUs will feel compelled to respond. If you do, please identify yourself and your vote in the thread so that I know which votes aren't from UUs.

[J Bryson]

Hmm. I use it on occasion, but don't have an issue with those who don't, including congregations that reject it as a whole. Wondering what I should pick.

[lilithu]

Originally Posted by J Bryson

Hmm. I use it on occasion, but don't have an issue with those who don't, including congregations that reject it as a whole.

It's been my experience that where there is discord on this issue, it's from people who have no use for religious language and object to other UUs using it. I've heard numerous stories of theistic UUs being admonished by some non-theistic UUs for using "the G-word" in church. I personally do not know any theistic UUs who have told nontheistic UUs that they have to use "god-language." Of course, it's possible that these things occur and are just not on my radar.

[J Bryson]

Yeah, same here. Still not sure how to answer this, though.

[EverChanging]

I had to think for a while, but while I do find meaning in literature, poems, metaphors, and even ritual, I don't really use the language myself. I voted under 30 and don't have a problem with it. I don't really care what people believe about gods or God or the supernatural unless it is being imposed on me: then I will challenge it.

[Kungfuzed]

I'm 35 and I don't have a problem with religious expression. In fact, I think sometimes it's a little too watered down. There is a big beautiful stained glass window of an angel that was salvaged from the old UU church in Wilmington and they keep it tucked away in a cabinet. Some wanted it down in the chapel but others objected from what I was told. I think it's way too beautiful to be locked up.

[Trey of Diamonds]

Can you give a better explanation of what you mean by religious expression and language? I'm not sure of the context in this thread.

[Willamena]

Non UU: What does humanism/theism have to do with language/expression?

[Green Gaia]

I voted '30-50 and I don't use religious expression but don't have a problem w/it'

Although that is not completely accurate, I do use religious expression on occassion, but it is not particularly important to me.

[J Bryson]

Originally Posted by Willamena

Non UU: What does humanism/theism have to do with language/expression?

Excellent question. A topic that seems to come up in UU circles a lot nowadays, especially around the "leadership" types, is the seeming lack of what could be considered sacred language in our church. As we welcome humanists, atheists, and others who may be uncomfortable with words and terms with dogmatic implications, we're now trying to figure out how to reconcile the hunger for this among some UUs with the understandable skepticism of others.