Send to a Friend

MisterBlueSky85's avatar

I'm an atheist and my family wants me to go to church with them on holidays. Should I?

Asked by MisterBlueSky85 (892points) May 27th, 2008

I was born into a Lutheran family and lived according to its principles for many years. I was a diligent student, a skilled alter boy, a reliable volunteer, and I even taught Sunday school. Around my junior year of high school, I realized religion could no longer provide for me what it seemed to be providing for others and I left the church. I now consider myself a strong atheist and a firm believer in evolution, materialism, and abiogenesis (linked to satisfy any curiosity you y’all might have).

Every Christmas and Easter since my desertion, my parents, namely my mother, have asked I attend a service. They say it’d mean the world to them and some of the members of the church would love to see me again. They argue that if I don’t believe in the prayers or proceedures, what does it matter if I play along?

I’ve always resisted them, but I want to make sure that this is a good decision. What do you think?

Using Fluther

or

Using Email

Separate multiple emails with commas.
We’ll only use these emails for this message.