Mother Teresa reminded us that "There is a famine in America. Not a famine of food, but of love, of truth, of life." How do you define love? How do you define truth? How do you define life? Where, how and when do you learn them? In a time that up to 70% of the population does not attend worship on a regular basis where, how and who is American’s turning to for fellowship and a place to be in community?
In my experience as an Interfaith Chaplain many individuals and couples have shared with me that they are running from churches because they don’t want fire and brimstone. They don’t want to be a part of intolerance. They are hungry for a positive, inclusive message of love, life and truth. 75% of those whom I serve are heterosexual individuals and couples. These are their words! I would have expected that feedback and those feelings for those from the GLBT Community, I was surprised to realize how many heterosexuals feel the same way.
It is a call for all leaders of faith to take note that there is much to be learned in the “bed side” manner that we provide. Fire and brimstone are out! Realistic-positive messages are in. intolerance is out! Open, affirming and inclusive is in. Most say that one thing is preached or taught yet they experience just the opposite.
In a recent survey, less than 18 percent of Americans say the church is the friendliest place in town (thechristianpost.com) The some 750 surveyed Americans, 500 of whom were Christian, said the most important factor that makes a place friendly is "making me feel like I belong." Subsequent factors include "making me feel comfortable" and "at ease," conversation, smiles and being non-judgmental.
In another notable finding, ministers or religious leaders are ranked fifth on the friendliest people in town list. Most surveyed Americans named "a close friend" and "family member" as the friendliest person. Meanwhile, ministers were ranked behind neighbors and co-workers.
Regardless of your belief, everyone should have access to a place of worship that you feel welcomed, honored, accepted, and valued.
We know that not everyone has the exact same belief, we know that everyone will question components of a specific doctrine or dogma. It is important to make space for people to ask questions, challenge, and freedom to choose how they choose to worship, what they choose as their truth. It is then and only then will you have created space for everyone to be at the table, truly!
I offer this prayer “Heavenly Parent, Heavenly Father, Guardian Spirits, Mother and Father Earth, God of Love, God of Hope, God of Life, God of Light we ask for gifts of peace, love, and tolerance. Let us have life by living by the truths that each person comes to know. Through that let our love shine for one another as you offer in your many teachings. As it was, is now and forever shall be. Amen.”
Who can individuals, couples and families turn to when they need care & services traditionally found by a place of worship? US! We are Inclusive Life, and we serve all without exception. We know that up to 70% of the population in America does not attend worship on a regular basis, so we are here to provide care & services to everyone regardless of they attend worship or not. Wedding Officiants-Premarital & Couples Coaching-Funeral Ministers-and much more…
(402) 575-7006 www.inclusivelife.org [TEXT ‘ceremony’ to 90210 for TEXT info!]
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