Posted on 04/27/2009 12:55:36 PM PDT by LibWhacker
ITA. How does half switching “at least once during their lives” translate to “early and often”?
And “restlessly” to boot!
“About half of those who have become unaffiliated cited a belief that religious people are hypocritical, judgmental or insincere. Large numbers said they think religious organizations focus too much on rules, or that religious leaders are too focused on money and power.”
What a mix of legitimate and illegitimate reasons.
1) “Religious people are hypocritical”. This could mean two things. First the obvious, that they do not practice the core beliefs of their religion. But it can also mean that the critic wants rigid adherence by others in the less important trappings of religion.
2) “Religious people are judgmental”. Again, two things. Either that they profess and practice strong moral rules, ignoring trendy and fashionable moral relativity; or that they condemn the sinner as much as the sin.
3) “Religious people are insincere”. This is a valid criticism of those of say they are of a religion, but do not follow its tenets or guidance, religious in name only. Many Americans have this problem, and belong to the Santa Claus and Easter Bunny church as their only religious affiliation.
4) “Religious organizations focus too much on rules”. A criticism by people who don’t like to follow rules other than their own. This is the choice of agnostics, but who still want their children baptized, and to get married in church.
5) “Religious leaders are too focused on money and power”. This has always been a balancing act for religion. While they usually need some money, it is easy to get caught up in greed. And power is easier to shun when you live in a just place, and your congregants are not oppressed, or there is great injustice.
Bingo!
My dad, my sister, and my niece have left the Catholic Church and converted to Judaism. My step-mom is probably next.
This is very interesting. I’d love to know what motivated them. Thanks.
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