This thread has been very interesting for me, to say the least. I grew up in a church where "Church-ianity" was the norm, where my parents claimed to be Christian) but didn't live it. Church became synonomous with hypocracy, and I rejected Christianity for many years until I was faced with something for which I have no explanation except for divine intervention.

A few months back my pastor gave a sermon about this topic. Explaining that there were so many people seeking Christ that were turned off by the church and if accepting Christ meant accepting the church, then thanks, but no thanks. I wish I remember more of the sermon, but the baby was nursing quite frequently then, and I'm sure I was up and down through the service. If only I could find those sermon notes, I'll share them with you guys.

Isn't this what is taught through out the>

Hey Jer I really identify with this statement:
My whole life I loathed my appearance and the appearance of anyone who looked like me. I'll read the self image post and post about it there. I just wanted to agree with what the Dean said:
I agree with this even though I have no idea who Victor Frankl is. Ten years ago I went from being a total athiest to being what I think of now as a creative agnostic. 2 1/2 years ago I took another big step and now I am really trying to be a christian. I think it says somewhere in the bible "knock and the door will be opened".

Peace
MO Healing

I'm soooo grateful for all of the kind words expressed toward me. Thank you truly. This is one thread that is one of those "print it and hang on the wall" items.

I'm reminded of thoughts expressed by some friends I have - put out to the universe what you need, and it will happen in one way or another.

So many ideas and experiences shared here. I'll come back to reply more asap.

The door is creaking open slowly. We journey separately, but togeather.

peace and affection,
jer