Alain de Botton was the major teaser of this with his recent Ted Talk (Atheism 2.0) and his book, Religion for Atheists, stating that "even if religion isn't true, can't we enjoy the best bits."
There's a yearning, it seems, among atheists - for community, collective mission, living better lives, kindness, and more. More of what atheism currently doesn't offer, provide, or perhaps doesn't promote (at least some seem to think so)
Some atheists have started to realize that aspects of religion - though connected to God - are missing in their lives.
It's not that surprising, then, that a few atheists also hunger for church - of some sort.
Check out... The Sunday Assembly - a new church in Britain.They meet in a church building, sing songs, listen to a talk, and nurture relationship.
Sound familiar?
Interesting that the original name for the church was ecclesia, which happens to mean assembly or gathering. (though the 1st century church's reason for assembly was much stronger than a community potluck and open mic)
Part of this experimental atheist church's mission is to pursue "wonder," yet Phyllis Tickle says they lack transcendence, mystery, and beauty.
How many inspirational talks or comedy routines can one participate in? Will they commit to it weekly? What will keep them together?
It's a new world, yet the same old questions.
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
Is this a good thing?
Where does this longing come from?
Is there something more to a church other than it's form (format)?
Do you think this will last or go global?
(if you comment, it would be great to state if you're an atheist or some kind of believer)
2 comments:
Atheist: You can't really institutionalize a non-belief in something. Especially something without central tenets. Besides Humanist/Freethinker gathering already exist. Calling them churches would be dumb.
Good point. I'm not calling it a "church" They are (or at least others are). I'm not agreeing with it, but interested in why.
You don't think you can institutionalize a non-belief? If you read this assemblies values they do believe in something - even though they don't believe in something. They are trying to shape a culture and bring atheists together around a common value and cause (what they feel would be good for them and others).
It's not a deity, but it's definitely a search for a common purpose.
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