Here is the first sentence in the American Humanist Association’s description of their organization: “We strive to bring about a progressive society where being good without a god is an accepted and respected way to live life.” (source) Like many secular and humanist groups, the AHA expects their secular celebrants to conduct humanist ceremonies which “express […]
Gretta Vosper
Finding her Oasis: Gretta Vosper and secular intolerance
A few months ago I wrote a short series of articles critiquing avowedly atheist United Church minister Gretta Vosper. In the articles I critiqued Vosper for being offended that the United Church was subjecting her outspoken atheism to a church inquiry and possible censure. (Here are the first two articles in the series: “Is the […]
Still Further Thoughts on Christian Atheism
If you want further evidence of the hostility and condescension that very liberal Christians have toward Christian orthodoxy, you need only look to the latest comment posted in support of Gretta Vosper at her blog article: “The reason I’m an atheist … in case you missed it.” Here’s the comment, coming from a fellow named “Robert”: Hi Gretta […]
Further Thoughts on Christian Atheism
A fellow named “Shane” posted a very revealing comment at Gretta Vosper’s blog today which succinctly summarizes the chasm that separates her version of “Christianity” from that identified by historic Christian orthodoxy. Shane writes: “For me, Christian Atheism is about the values that we as humans have developed and associated with the Christian story, not about “believing” […]
Are Christian denominations permitted to expect theism of their ministers?
Christians often complain of a prejudicial hostility toward their views. Often the perception is borne of an unjustified martyr complex. Consider, for example, the so-called “War on Christmas.” But at other times, Christians are indeed subject of an unjust hostility and prejudice. Consider, for example, the notion of communal boundaries. In most any context it is […]
Is the Christian minister Gretta Vosper being persecuted just because she’s an atheist?
This morning Gretta Vosper, the atheist United Church minister who is currently facing a church inquiry that may result in her being removed from the United Church ministerial, posted an article on her atheism. In the article, titled, “The reason I’m an atheist … in case you missed it,” Vosper presents the current inquiry against […]
The Ongoing Trials of the Minister Who Was an Atheist
A few months ago I wrote an article on the case of Gretta Vosper, a United Church minister who is an avowed atheist. The United Church of Canada, formed in 1925, has long been known as the bastion of mainline Protestant liberalism. But you might think that atheism is a bit much, even for the […]
