Faith based threads

Hi @Former-Member i have no problem in name change. The suggestions you have made are good ones. I really don’t mind. 😊

*Edited

@Former-Member

I personally don’t have a problem with the idea that people can share a specific religion on a thread and I think that it’s a good way for those with the same religion or faith to connect and support each other.

My opinion is if you don’t want to be part of, or are triggered by religion then it’s probably better to avoid that thread. There will always be threads that trigger members for so many different reasons. I don’t think it’s possible to eliminate it in this environment. I think maybe it’s our responsibility as members to choose threads which are helpful and supportive for us as individuals.

I think if there is a thread that is causing lots of conflict then maybe consultation with the members is best which I know has happened in the past. It it continues to cause conflict then maybe it’s a case for looking at it more thoroughly.

I’ve looked at the thread that has been mentioned on and off since it began. The posts Ive read have been supportive and positive and I’ve noticed the strong connections that have been made. I know every now and then there may have been some conflict but it’s been resolved. I see it as more supportive for the members who contribute there than anything else. I think the main point is that it is essential that the same tolerance be shown if other religions were expressed as well in a different space. To me opening it up to all faiths on the same thread would be counterproductive.

I don’t think you can narrow it to religion. I don’t think it’s easy to define where inclusivity and exclusivity lines are drawn when it comes to religion as well as other topics such as spirituality, gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, race, culture, age etc.

One of the best parts of the forum are the connections and the 'me too' moments where you suddenly don’t feel so alone. The forum is ever evolving and very specific topics often come up. There are so many members that come together in small groups over things they have in common. I wouldn’t like to see everything fit into categories personally.

Hoping I haven’t trodden on anyone’s toes with my opinions. I’m voicing them but am open to hear other opinions too.

There is currently a thread called ‘Christian chat & worship praise prayer support fun peace love joy (no debating) relax’-- this thread was started by @Bella

lot of religions call themselves christians or saints

I know no one own`s there thread

I don`t mind either one @Former-Member

‘Faith chat’& worship praise prayer support fun peace love joy (no debating) relax’--

or ‘spirituality and self-care’ –

@Former-Member, @outlander, @SunFlower_7, @eudemonism, @Former-Member, @Determined, @saturnzoon, @Faith-and-Hope, @Adge, @Smc, @Holly24,

I mean no disrespect in saying this but I personally can't see how the name is at all threatening and believe the current name gives an indication of the content and readers the opportunity to read or not read if that is not their thing. The same way anyone would be able to start a new thread more aligned to their own beliefs or faith framework. To change the name just because someone may not like 'Christian' in the title would be disappointing. This is a thread where many receive calm and in no way means disrespect to anyone but is a space where people with similar views can find healing and comfort. In my opinion a valuable element of an already great forum framework.

I agree @Determined, why can`t we just leave it and if anyone else wants to open a new thread , go ahead @Former-Member

I don't often post in this thread but do often read and on many occasions something shared has helped get me through my day. I am sure I am not alone in this.

I agree with @Shaz51 & @Determined, true Christianity is all about Love, you can read it in, The book of 1 Corinthians.

The example that Jesus made for all mankind, no matter whether they believed or not. HE sacrificed himself for everyone. To show what Love is all about, whether or not they choose to believe, HE still loved them. Religion has rules, Christianity is free will, if we make mistakes we are forgiven, Religion had punishment.

There are so many triggering factors all around us, if I personally had no faith, I would have perished long ago. My faith in God & Jesus, through HIS Word (Bible) has given me the will to survive, & I am not the only one.

I'm sure if their were another thread just for Spirituality as such, then there would be variety. When I was in Hospital I needed my Faith in God & Jesus 100% to get better, just as I still do now. TY

I suspect changing that thread's name would alter the intention and direction of the thread and may upset people.

I support @Teej comments re spontaneity and interest based threads.

I also think her discussion around conflict is excellent.

At the moment the person who started that thread is missing and I am concerned for her. She is very vulnerable and isolated, so this could be bad timing and more bureacratic than therapuetic.

If the mods are concerned re religious minorities perhaps start topics on them and see if you can engage people who follow or are interested in other faiths ... eg Islam, Beddhism, Sikhism, Jainism, Daoism .... but there is always the chance somebody or some belief will be missed...

Working with a bottom up rather than top down approach may help the less well represented minorities, but dont forget that this forum is really in its early stages as a community and a bit of an experiment. The Christian thread is a beautiful work in progress.

Btw my half chinese nephew and I had a wonderful day today. He had not visited since he was about 8. When I first tried to even mention race or ethnicity on the forum I was ticked off for being racist. I understand the reason for zealous inclusion and political correctness, but more harm than good may arise by meddling with posts and what I would call a premature intervention.

Work on inviting others to engage, with diverse beliefs and good will. Allow new threads to evolve. That is a better way to community. This website could technically cope many more members and more threads, there need not be much conflict. It also takes courage to post here and develop networks and friendships. Create openings, but rebadging is not a good look in my book.

Regards Apple