I've learned a lot here. Though I don't post often I read most of the discussions.
Many spur me to take a second and third look at some of my points of view and the roles that religion have played in my life. Or not, as the case may be. And I appreciate the leads for further reading.
Some of the contentiousness is disconcerting, truth be told. That's secondary, though. I can and have set much of it aside. I find most of the back and forth interesting.
And my interest is personal. I'm the nominal Catholic among my 3 other siblings. They are totally a-religious. It's never been a big deal among us, just a given. Now I'm moving on a bit. Ironically, my twin's daughter had a part in this. A while ago she mentioned off-hand that she wished she had some exposure to religious stuff when she was growing up. Just to see what all the hoopla was about and make up her own mind about it all.
She's getting married next month. The ceremony will be in a humanist group format. I asked her what that was and she gave me that side-long look, smiling - you can see for yourself and make up your own mind. No big deal.
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The contentiousness is disconcerting at times, but there also is a good deal of understanding, acceptance and support. Sort of like a U/U church at times.
Some humanist groups have developed programs for training people to perform certain functions that have previously been the purview of religious people for the most part. Celebrants is the term I have seen most often.
The wedding should be interesting, if you have not been to one before, and I look forward to your report.
Will definitely make some comments here. It's going to be interesting. And a lot of fun - family reunion is a part of the picture.