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"Priests" of Deism

Neo Deist

Th.D. & D.Div. h.c.
I was recently asked what the title is of someone that teaches others about deism. Since deism does not have an official church, holy book or anything else, I had to step back for a moment and consider my answer. "Teacher" sounded too school house-ish, and priest conveys the image of Catholicism or Greek Orthodox, although pagans use priest/priestess as well. So, let me ask my fellow deists (and others that frequent this DIR) what you think a "priest" of deism should be called:

1. Priest
2. Mentor
3. Elder
4. Reverend
5. Pastor
6. Chaplain
7. Cleric
8. Bishop
9. Doctor (if appropriate)
10. Teacher

I answered with "mentor" but have since given this some thought. Deists typically do not need titles or labels, and we certainly do not try to "toot our own horns" with regard to a church hierarchy.
 

columbus

yawn <ignore> yawn
How about Celestial Highness?:blush:

Honestly, the premise itself seems really awkward. I have trouble imagining myself not s******ing at someone referring to Mentor Dave or something.
Tom
 

Neo Deist

Th.D. & D.Div. h.c.
Honestly, the premise itself seems really awkward.

I agree. However, I am ordained (so I can officiate marriages) and I have a ThD so, that is why the question came up. I was asked quite literally "what do we call you?"

They were hinting at something more official sounding. I had never really thought about it up until that point. My answer was, "I am a mentor of deism, but you can just call me Chris."
 

Ingledsva

HEATHEN ALASKAN
I was recently asked what the title is of someone that teaches others about deism. Since deism does not have an official church, holy book or anything else, I had to step back for a moment and consider my answer. "Teacher" sounded too school house-ish, and priest conveys the image of Catholicism or Greek Orthodox, although pagans use priest/priestess as well. So, let me ask my fellow deists (and others that frequent this DIR) what you think a "priest" of deism should be called:

1. Priest
2. Mentor
3. Elder
4. Reverend
5. Pastor
6. Chaplain
7. Cleric
8. Bishop
9. Doctor (if appropriate)
10. Teacher

I answered with "mentor" but have since given this some thought. Deists typically do not need titles or labels, and we certainly do not try to "toot our own horns" with regard to a church hierarchy.

9. Doctor (if appropriate) - Is best.

Perhaps - Lecturer Neo Deist? or Doctor of Deist Theology?

www.wisegeek.com
Aug 8, 2016 - A lecturer is a person who is educated about a subject and imparts advice ... Lecturer Definition · A lecturer may be trained in public speaking.

https://www.vocabulary.com/dictionary/lecturer

A lecturer is someone who stands up in front of a class and gives an organized talk designed to teach you something.

*
 

Neo Deist

Th.D. & D.Div. h.c.
9. Doctor (if appropriate) - Is best.

Doctor of Deist Theology?

Hmmm...

The only problem I foresee is that there is not a university/seminary for deists, so to take on that title would be self appointed. Yes I could do it given that I have a ThD, and I could put a deistic spin on it but....I don't know. The concept is an interesting one, to be sure!
 

Neo Deist

Th.D. & D.Div. h.c.
Hmmm...

The only problem I foresee is that there is not a university/seminary for deists, so to take on that title would be self appointed. Yes I could do it given that I have a ThD, and I could put a deistic spin on it but....I don't know. The concept is an interesting one, to be sure!

I was given a PM suggestion for this post...

Create a seminary that teaches deistic thought. In the USA, religious institutions are not subject to government oversight because of the 1st Amendment of the US Constitution. Said seminary could focus on non-revealed religions,and even ordain those who wish to be so (for marriages, funerals, etc.). Hmmm...
 
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