ITEMS of INTEREST

with contributions from Esther Talbot Fenning, Andrew Beaujon, Austin Kaluba

"IT ISN'T ALWAYS EASY to ask hard questions about religion. In an effort to serve those who question religion, churches are offering forums and discussions where people can express their doubts in a nonthreatening setting. Church leaders say that some of the most frequently asked questions are: 'Does God really exist?' 'Why is Christianity littered with oppression and violence?' 'Why is the Bible filled with contradictions?' and 'Can I be a Christian and not play strictly by the rules of my church?'

"The Revs. Jeff Spaulding and Kim Blackwood, pastor and assistant pastor of Faith United Methodist Church in St. Charles [,Missouri], are moderating a seven-week forum on Sunday afternoons for those who question the teachings of the church. Weekly topics include evil and suffering, miracles, diversity, heaven and hell, and more....

"Participants are not required to sign up for the full seven weeks but can attend when a specific topic interests them. Blackwood said they come from a variety of denominations and backgrounds. She explained that there is no opportunity for people to express their doubts during Sunday worship services. The result is that people leave their question and concern about social issues as they relate to their faith outside the doors of the church—along with the fear that to doubt is not Christian.

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