Stedfast is just the pot of Christian homophobia boiling over. They illustrate the disordered nature of anti-Gay Christianity. We need to have expose the delusions that sustain them.
As an atheist humanist from Portugal, deeply invested in the principles of rationalism and humanism, I read this article with great interest. The church's vehemently anti-LGBTQ+ stance is a stark reminder of the pernicious effects that certain religious doctrines can have on societal attitudes and behaviors.
The fight against such dogmatic stances is not merely a struggle against a single institution though, but a broader battle against the foundational beliefs and values that perpetuate homophobia under the guise of religious virtue (it's written in their foundational texts). It requires a concerted effort to challenge and dismantle these beliefs, advocating for a society that values and respects individuals regardless of their sexual orientation.
As someone who reveres the philosophical approach of Socrates and the scientific poetry of Carl Sagan, I believe it is imperative to promote critical thinking and empathy over blind adherence to dogmatic principles.
The journey towards a more inclusive and rational society is undoubtedly challenging, especially in the current climate of the USA. However, I remain hopeful and steadfast in the commitment to support this cause, alongside fellow humanists.
We must continue to champion the cause of reason, and human dignity against the tide of religious extremism and intolerance.
I apologize for the wall of text :).
As Christopher Hitchens used to say; "Mr. Jefferson, build up that wall!"
First thing, there is no need to apologize for a wall of text. I am glad to see thoughtful replies. My goal is to get people thinking about issues even if we don't always agree.
There is nothing wrong with what you advocate or say. I am an analytic person myself and read the scientific press. However, (you knew a however was coming), our opponents, like this church aren't rational, nor likely ever to be rational.
My goal is immediate, find a way of diabling them. Pointing out the irrational elements in their beliefs will mean nothing to them. Pointing out that they are losers will. They work by emotion and not by reason.
Long term society may become more rational, but we have the Gay community being attacked right now and need tactics that work right now.
At our last protest of another homophobic church, a church member said that he had been an addict but Jesus save him. I replied, "How did I manage to not be an addict without Jesus!". I also said, "So Jesus is a sort of duct tape holding you together."
Unfortunately, one of the other protest members started their analytical efforts which went no where, and this person wasn't arguing in good faith.
We are working to develop new tactics. I had discussed prior to the protest that we don't argue over what the Bible says. We don't make our right to breath contingent on a convoluted and contorted debate over the Bible within their religion.
I also said, we are not out to save them from their thinking. Our goal is to psychologically disable them. After the protest I had to explain to them, that they are not arguing in good faith like your neighbor or a relative.
Protestors of homophobic churches get played by the homophobic churches and I am trying to step up our methods.
Perhaps my initial comment did not fully capture the essence of my stance. Let me try and clarify; while I generally adopt a peaceful approach, I am not a pacifist. History teaches us that there are moments when drastic measures become necessary. If peaceful endeavors are systematically thwarted, those fighting for justice and equality have every right to escalate their response in line with the resistance they face.
As an atheist and anti-theist, I place humanism at the core of my ethical framework. This philosophy drives me to strive for understanding and empathy towards all humans, to see each and every one as an individual. However, this understanding does not equate to unconditional acceptance, especially when it comes to religious doctrines that systematically dehumanize and discriminate against certain groups, as is the case with the LGBTQ+ community's struggle against institutions like Stedfast Baptist Church (what a bunch of lunatics, by the way).
In these scenarios, where religious beliefs are used to justify bigotry and exclusion, it becomes increasingly difficult to see the 'human' behind such inhuman ideologies. My support is unwavering for those who fight against such oppressive systems, but it's clear that those directly affected will bear the brunt of this battle.
The secular world undoubtedly stands with you, offering support and solidarity. Yet, it is also evident that the most significant strides, the heavy lifting, must often be undertaken by those who are most directly impacted and thus most deeply motivated.
While my approach is grounded in rational thought and humanistic values, I acknowledge the complexity and often the harsh realities of such struggles. The fight for equality and acceptance in the face of rigid and oppressive religious dogma is a challenging one, but it is a fight that is both necessary and just.
The secular community is with you in this struggle, recognizing the need for both peaceful advocacy and, when required, more assertive actions.
Thanks for clarifying. I wasn't exactly sure were you are coming from. With our new direction, a significant segment of the opposition are Gays and other saying we should all sit around and sing a happy song and we are being meanies.
As an atheist humanist from Portugal, deeply invested in the principles of rationalism and humanism, I read this article with great interest. The church's vehemently anti-LGBTQ+ stance is a stark reminder of the pernicious effects that certain religious doctrines can have on societal attitudes and behaviors.
The fight against such dogmatic stances is not merely a struggle against a single institution though, but a broader battle against the foundational beliefs and values that perpetuate homophobia under the guise of religious virtue (it's written in their foundational texts). It requires a concerted effort to challenge and dismantle these beliefs, advocating for a society that values and respects individuals regardless of their sexual orientation.
As someone who reveres the philosophical approach of Socrates and the scientific poetry of Carl Sagan, I believe it is imperative to promote critical thinking and empathy over blind adherence to dogmatic principles.
The journey towards a more inclusive and rational society is undoubtedly challenging, especially in the current climate of the USA. However, I remain hopeful and steadfast in the commitment to support this cause, alongside fellow humanists.
We must continue to champion the cause of reason, and human dignity against the tide of religious extremism and intolerance.
I apologize for the wall of text :).
As Christopher Hitchens used to say; "Mr. Jefferson, build up that wall!"
First thing, there is no need to apologize for a wall of text. I am glad to see thoughtful replies. My goal is to get people thinking about issues even if we don't always agree.
There is nothing wrong with what you advocate or say. I am an analytic person myself and read the scientific press. However, (you knew a however was coming), our opponents, like this church aren't rational, nor likely ever to be rational.
My goal is immediate, find a way of diabling them. Pointing out the irrational elements in their beliefs will mean nothing to them. Pointing out that they are losers will. They work by emotion and not by reason.
Long term society may become more rational, but we have the Gay community being attacked right now and need tactics that work right now.
At our last protest of another homophobic church, a church member said that he had been an addict but Jesus save him. I replied, "How did I manage to not be an addict without Jesus!". I also said, "So Jesus is a sort of duct tape holding you together."
Unfortunately, one of the other protest members started their analytical efforts which went no where, and this person wasn't arguing in good faith.
We are working to develop new tactics. I had discussed prior to the protest that we don't argue over what the Bible says. We don't make our right to breath contingent on a convoluted and contorted debate over the Bible within their religion.
I also said, we are not out to save them from their thinking. Our goal is to psychologically disable them. After the protest I had to explain to them, that they are not arguing in good faith like your neighbor or a relative.
Protestors of homophobic churches get played by the homophobic churches and I am trying to step up our methods.
Perhaps my initial comment did not fully capture the essence of my stance. Let me try and clarify; while I generally adopt a peaceful approach, I am not a pacifist. History teaches us that there are moments when drastic measures become necessary. If peaceful endeavors are systematically thwarted, those fighting for justice and equality have every right to escalate their response in line with the resistance they face.
As an atheist and anti-theist, I place humanism at the core of my ethical framework. This philosophy drives me to strive for understanding and empathy towards all humans, to see each and every one as an individual. However, this understanding does not equate to unconditional acceptance, especially when it comes to religious doctrines that systematically dehumanize and discriminate against certain groups, as is the case with the LGBTQ+ community's struggle against institutions like Stedfast Baptist Church (what a bunch of lunatics, by the way).
In these scenarios, where religious beliefs are used to justify bigotry and exclusion, it becomes increasingly difficult to see the 'human' behind such inhuman ideologies. My support is unwavering for those who fight against such oppressive systems, but it's clear that those directly affected will bear the brunt of this battle.
The secular world undoubtedly stands with you, offering support and solidarity. Yet, it is also evident that the most significant strides, the heavy lifting, must often be undertaken by those who are most directly impacted and thus most deeply motivated.
While my approach is grounded in rational thought and humanistic values, I acknowledge the complexity and often the harsh realities of such struggles. The fight for equality and acceptance in the face of rigid and oppressive religious dogma is a challenging one, but it is a fight that is both necessary and just.
The secular community is with you in this struggle, recognizing the need for both peaceful advocacy and, when required, more assertive actions.
Thanks for clarifying. I wasn't exactly sure were you are coming from. With our new direction, a significant segment of the opposition are Gays and other saying we should all sit around and sing a happy song and we are being meanies.
I'm glad I clarified my position :). Using one of AC Grayling's definitions of secular humanism; it's an attitude.
Act.