Heaven Help Us

[Scythe13]

Technically the official definition of a church is a meeting of people under a single banner, e.g. a football (soccer for our colonial members) stadium is probably the biggest church in any city. The way it is viewed is more like a religion too.

However, in regards to religion occuring post SHTF...people will be looking for answers. The what, why, when, how, and who, are going to be asked, and those with answers (whether correct, incorrect, or morphed versions of the truth) will be looked to. Think of these people as being the focal point to bring answers to the questions of the lost and confused many.

Some of the answers will be under a religious view point, e.g. God is punishing us. Others will be more 'earthly' in their response, e.g. Nature is Punishing us. Others will be scientific, e.g. We consumed the resources like locust, we only have ourselves to blame.

Whatever happens, many will need a higher cause or reasoning to explain it all. People will accept what they want to believe, whether it's religion or science, or a bit of both.

WTSHTF, only those mature enough in their beliefs (whether religious or non-religious) and secure enough with themselves, will be able to cohabit and get on with daily life.

The religious elements forcing their religion on other people will be chastised, just the same as those without a religious belief will be chastised for forcing their non-belief on other people. Regardless of your religious opinions or atheistic views, or anything inbetween, if you are unable to get along with other people, as TH does hint at it will be the dominant belief that will probably have a final say.

Having said that, a group of any religious view should be no more or less accepting than any other. Granted TH recognises the Christian view to show mercy to strangers (love thy neighbour, Mark 12 I think), but they also have an obligation to look after their own family and those already under their protection.

Providing the people in a group are not religious zealots, are mature adults and able to have conversation without it leading to arguments, and understand how to use the words "I don't think we'll ever agree, and I'm not really in the mood to discuss this. If I want to chat about this topic, I'll let you know. For now, let's just leave it." and the other person is okay to accept that. Then there will be no problems at all for anyone.

If the view of "Oh you're one of those religious nutters...." or "I Allah hates you people because of your sins..." or anything like that...that's when serious issues arise.

I think it comes down to being a mature adult and being able to accept that not all people are the same. Accept there are differences, and getting on with the job.