Religion
Related: About this forumSkeptics wonder if ex-clergy should lead atheist movements
Ken Chitwood | Oct 2, 2013
(RNS) By definition, skeptics are pretty skeptical. They question what they see as unfounded claims or dubious motivations, whatever the source. Now, they are questioning some of their own leaders.
With the success of organizations such as The Clergy Project an online community seeking to provide a safe place for clergy members who reject supernatural beliefs numerous former ministers are joining the ranks of the publicly nontheistic.
Some have risen to the leadership of prominent atheist organizations. Last week, Teresa MacBain was dismissed from her high-profile position at Harvard Universitys Humanist Community after it was revealed she inflated her resume. The former United Methodist pastor claimed a degree from Duke Divinity School she did not have.
Now skeptics are wondering if onetime clergy leading nonreligious groups is the best idea.
http://www.religionnews.com/2013/10/02/skeptics-wonder-ex-clergy-lead-atheist-movements/
dimbear
(6,271 posts)Not only is a little long term commitment an asset, not only are there plenty of steady hands already available,
but there is a great deal to be said for simple honesty.
Someone who hasn't lied in the past makes a better witness. At least that's what Perry Mason implies.
rug
(82,333 posts)There's also Dan Barker and Al Stefanelli to consider.
xfundy
(5,105 posts)I suspect that a vast majority of them, having read the buybull in its entirety, reject it as nonsense.
Nothing can create an atheist better than actually reading that nonsense.
cbayer
(146,218 posts)cbayer
(146,218 posts)Charismatic leaders should be scrutinized carefully in any organization.
The problem here is the risk of becoming no different than other institutions that are ruled by dogma and fundamentalism.
Are leaders who were previously clergy more likely to head in that direction?
cbayer
(146,218 posts)Ex-pastor or not, he's a shyster, imo.