Swordse

Very sad and tragic for this boy. Did the other boy ever actually accuse him of these deeds or was this just allegations from one boy to the SM to the Council? How can a council determine that a boy does not meet membership standards based on unproved allegations? This sounds like something that could happen unfairly to any boy.

kwc57, please read my previous post. That's great that you believe what you believe! But if you don't agree with what I say, all I can say is, tough! For more info check out: http://www.quaker.org/fwcc/EMES/booklet.html#1 Peace

Rooster, I didn't think I was debating anything. I was trying to explain the basis of my religious beliefs because you asked. I am not trying to convince you to become Quaker, nor would I expect you to try to convert me to your beliefs. You seem convinced that you are right and I am wrong....I do not feel the need to defend my beliefs simply because you disagree.

Zahnada, I just replied to Rooster regarding some religious beliefs. I do not consider it a debate, simply an attempt at clarification of Quaker beliefs. I was raised Presbyterian but the Friends beliefs are what ring true to me. I do not consider this the 'one, true faith' as by the nature of the religion 'Friends generally believe that first-hand knowledge of God is only possible through that which is experienced, or inwardly revealed to the individual human being through the working of God's quickening Spirit.'

Rooster, this is probably not the place for a religious discussion, eh? I don't think I am mixing my metaphors...I believe there is a spark of God within everyone, and we can all listen to this Light if we choose. But if you don't think that, OK! Yes I do believe we are all God, from God, sons and daughters of God, part of the Whole; I also believe (since you seem interested): 'Friends believe that there exists element of God's spirit in every human soul. Thus all persons have inherent worth, independent of their gender, race, age, nationality, religion, and sexual orientation. Their oppo

Rooster, I don't want to get too out of scope on this topic, but would like to touch on a few points. I do not dismiss all religions; on the contrary I believe that most of them contain some truth. The nature of the religion I adhere most closely to encourages me to 'worship as an act of seeking'. I do not think I worship a generic god, but rather I believe we are all sons and daughters of God and thus have the Light within if we choose to listen to it. I think that 'true religion is a personal encounter with God, rather than ritual and ceremony.' (quotes from RELIGIOUS SOCIETY OF FRIENDS(QUAK

Rooster, No offence intended to anyone's religion or views. Perhaps I should have stated it differently - my view of God is not limited to any religious doctrine (and the humans interpreting it). I believe that most religions contain some truths but that Truth is not limited to any religion. For many people religion is a beautiful part of their lives. But religion is also the cause of a lot of war and destruction when certain groups believe that they are the one and only true religion.

Kwc57, I agree with you that parents have a duty to teach certain moral values such as not stealing, not lying, repsecting people, etc. This is a very high priority for me. However there is big difference between teaching these values per se, and insisting that a child become a member of a certain religious organization. I can teach the values without an organized religion. I personally believe that God or whatever you may call the Higher Power does not really care what church or religion you belong to, but is rather more interested in what is in your heart. So many religions believe that

Boys (and girls) of this age are often still forming and developing their beliefs. My son has joined several youth groups from several very different churches and has explored several religions. I hope he will explore some more. We have told him he is free to develop his own beliefs. He understands my beliefs and we have many discussions, but in no way do I intend to impose my beliefs on him. Does he believe in a 'higher power'? I am certain that he does. But I think in his view, 'duty to God' means living by the Golden Rule, not being a member of a particular church or adhering to a particula