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Sat May 31, 2014, 08:41 AM May 2014

What an atheist learned from working with Zoroastrians

Chris Stedman | May 28, 2014

Today’s guest column is written by Zach Cole, Values in Action Fellow at the Humanist Community at Harvard.

In the heart of Harvard Square in Cambridge, Massachusetts, there’s a new center—the Humanist Hub, dedicated to building nonreligious community in the greater Boston area. Depending on the Sunday, you can meet like-minded people, hear a philosopher give a talk, celebrate the arrival of spring, or serve the community by packing meals for kids in need.

On display at this nonreligious community center is a colorful collection of reflections created at a recent meal packing service event. This display contains quotes like these:

“I’m Erin and I’m an atheist and I serve because my personal experiences and privileges are not the norm” “I’m Jade and I am an atheist and I serve because I believe that following the maxim ‘from each according to his ability to each according to his need’ leads to a more just society.”

In addition to quotes from atheists, the display also contains reflections from theists:

“I’m Sonia and I am a Christian and I serve because we have only one life to get it right. I can’t think of a better use of mine.” “I’m Firoza and I am a Zoroastrian and I serve because I believe everyone in this world deserves to have a nutritious meal… We are lucky to be born in families where we are well looked after. I believe it’s our responsibility to help the less fortunate.”

Why are there reflections from Zoroastrians, Christians, and other theists on the wall of a center dedicated to building nonreligious community?

http://chrisstedman.religionnews.com/2014/05/28/atheist-learned-working-zoroastrians/
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