Petition for new forum: "Religion on the Trail"

[The Weasel]

I am posting this on "Straight Forward" so that it can fit into the strict moderation rules here and not become a debate.

I have posted this Poll with one response only, since this is a Petition, rather than an opinion poll. I realize that there are people who will be opposed to it, but the purpose here is to see if there is support for this proposal and, if so, how much there is. If there is only a few, then the proposal might be disregarded. If there are many, then the Administrators here can consider if the idea has merit.

Proposal: That there be a single forum, similar in structure to the Women's Forum, for posts dealing with "Religion on the Trail."

This would not be a place to discuss whether one religion (or no religion) was good, better, best or worse than the alternatives. It would be a place where information about religion or religious things related to the AT could be expressed and exchanged.

This is an very important aspect of the AT, both in terms of the culture of Appalachia, as well as for hikers on the Appalachian Trail. Not only is Appalachia - from Georgia to Maine - heavily informed by religion, but religion and religous groups are so intertwined with the AT that the two cannot be easily separated. Thus, there are churches formally and informally associated with hostels, and other hostels and meeting places that are anywhere from openly to quietly religious in their purpose. Many hikers have religious needs, ranging from wanting to know which towns have Catholic Churches so they can attend mass, where Passover can be celebrated, or aid in observing other holidays or religious committments. Some hikers wish partners who share their faith, and that is no less (or more) of a reasonable desire than for a desire for someone of the same age, or sex, or other interest.

This forum - if allowed - would NOT be a place for debating, or even discussing, religion, and religious arrogance would not be tolerated, I would hope. Much as "political" issues are discouraged in most of the forums, even if related somehow to the Forum concept, attempts to justify or attack faith (or differences, or absence of faith) would not be allowed. In short, attempts to "witness" would not be allowed. This is very possible, since a thread last year about organizing a hike for one religious group was very successful, without being difficult for others to accept. There are other threads going on at present that are not contentious, such as the one about where Passover can be observed, showing that there is both a need for such a forum generally as well as the ability to self-police (usually) the topics.

I think WB is mature enough to accept the importance of this concept, and to manage it wisely.

Comments:This Poll Petition is simply to show numbers. I ask comments be restricted to those who support the Petition with comments that are non-confrontational and non-preaching, and that they not refer to one's own particular faith, denomination or beliefs. I am not the moderator, however, so those who do not wish to honor my request obviously can do so.

[Lugnut]

Allowing only Yes votes is not a very accurate poll. :-?

[Lone Wolf]

NO religion or politics forums should be allowed on the website. i'm sure the majority of members agree with me

[The Weasel]

Allowing only Yes votes is not a very accurate poll. :-?

As noted, it is not intended as a "Poll", but a Petition. Lone Wolf is correct that it is likely that a majority of users here may not want such a forum. The size of the minority may, however, indicate that it is important enough to create for those with an interest. That would be up to the Administrators, of course.

TW

[superman]

NO religion or politics forums should be allowed on the website. i'm sure the majority of members agree with me

I absolutely agree with you.

[ed bell]

This was extensively covered recently in the Donating Member's forum:
http://http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=410

The answer was "not going to happen". I seriously doubt any change in policy about this is going to happen.

[think0075]

i have no problem with people discussing religion. however the people who are ignorant enough to put down other peoples religion and realized that people have the right to have different views i find absurd. discussing religion and respecting religion is much different than practicing and trying to influence people who have different opinions. if you want to try to tell people right from wrong then this is the wrong place.

[max patch]

It would be a place where information about religion or religious things related to the AT could be expressed and exchanged.



Poll accomplishes nothing.

We already can talk about religion related to the trail.

This proposal changes nothing. It neither expands or limits existing policy.

[The Weasel]

As said in the opening post, this was crafted as a "petition" simply to see how many support it, in a public forum. There was also a request that it not be debated by those in favor or against and put in Straight Forward in the hopes that Forum Rules would discourage any discussion.

[ColdFire]

As said in the opening post, this was crafted as a "petition" simply to see how many support it, in a public forum. There was also a request that it not be debated by those in favor or against and put in Straight Forward in the hopes that Forum Rules would discourage any discussion.

If you don't want people to make any comments about your "petition" then why make such a long winded post? (which I didn't bother to read anyway) Just make the poll since the name of it says enough.

[Cookerhiker]

Some questions:


If this forum is approved, does this mean religion/faith may only be discussed on this forum and no others? Any references whatsoever to religion anywhere else is banned?
Does the "no witnessing" rule apply to both religious and secular participants, i.e. no one may push their beliefs/nonbeliefs on others nor scorn those who don't think like them?
I know you said this is a petition but do you interpret a majority of "Nos" to mean that religion shouldn't be discussed at all (as some respondents have already indicated) or does the status quo prevail whereby some discussion and references to religion occurs and is generally tolerated (notwithstanding some recent noteworthy exceptions)?

[Summit]

Sorry Weasey but I voted no. It will never work the way it would be good for it to work here on WB. Too many detractors who would hijack any attempt at seriousness. Are you volunteering to moderate it! :eek:

I never have and do not want to hold religious discussions at WB. The times I've been accused of preachin' was when someone attacked me because of my signature or tag line, OR introduced a false statement about the faith that I hold dear. When that happens (past and future), I will wade in to challenge false statements/views. I welcome PMs anytime if someone wants to discuss or question what I put my faith in. People do that fairly often and I hope they would agree I have been very accomodating, straightforward, and factual. I don't 'preach.' I just tell folks what the scriptures tell us about what they ask.

What I have spoken out for and Sgt. Rock mentioned it in a post yesterday as being OK, is that people should be able to use 'faith language' in their responses without being jumped. Example: Someone shares something really good that happened to them. If I feel like responding "Praise the Lord," or "I pray to God it will work out the way you're hoping," non-believers should refrain from telling the world what they think about my beliefs - hijacking the thread. While I'm sure there are some who will refuse to believe it because they don't understand the source of my passion, I don't flaunt my faith, I just live it.

[OldStormcrow]

Shhheeeeesh! Look at the "poll/petition" numbers and figure it out for yourself. No need to dig up a big ol' can of worms, no matter what your personal convictions may be. The 'net is a big ol' place with plenty of room for this stuff, but I'm here to read and talk about the outdoors, not religion!

[The Weasel]

Some questions:


If this forum is approved, does this mean religion/faith may only be discussed on this forum and no others? Any references whatsoever to religion anywhere else is banned?
Does the "no witnessing" rule apply to both religious and secular participants, i.e. no one may push their beliefs/nonbeliefs on others nor scorn those who don't think like them?
I know you said this is a petition but do you interpret a majority of "Nos" to mean that religion shouldn't be discussed at all (as some respondents have already indicated) or does the status quo prevail whereby some discussion and references to religion occurs and is generally tolerated (notwithstanding some recent noteworthy exceptions)?


1) That wouldn't be up to me, but I would think people could post anywhere, must as topics that affect women don't "have" to go in the Females Forum. But I think there is some inhibition by many people to "raising religion" in other topics.
2) That would be my hope: No preaching, no scorn.
3) How it's interpreted would be up the Admins. My feeling is that if a significant number of people want something, it doesn't have to be a majority. There are topics here on WB now that don't get majority support (the Pacific Crest Trail forum, for instance, much as I love it, is probably not something a majority wants).


Sorry Weasey but I voted no. It will never work the way it would be good for it to work here on WB. Too many detractors who would hijack any attempt at seriousness. Are you volunteering to moderate it! :eek:

I never have and do not want to hold religious discussions at WB. The times I've been accused of preachin' was when someone attacked me because of my signature or tag line, OR introduced a false statement about the faith that I hold dear. When that happens (past and future), I will wade in to challenge false statements/views. I welcome PMs anytime if someone wants to discuss or question what I put my faith in. People do that fairly often and I hope they would agree I have been very accomodating, straightforward, and factual. I don't 'preach.' I just tell folks what the scriptures tell us about what they ask.

What I have spoken out for and Sgt. Rock mentioned it in a post yesterday as being OK, is that people should be able to use 'faith language' in their responses without being jumped. Example: Someone shares something really good that happened to them. If I feel like responding "Praise the Lord," or "I pray to God it will work out the way you're hoping," non-believers should refrain from telling the world what they think about my beliefs - hijacking the thread.]

1) My petition and accompanying explanation makes it clear that this forum would NOT be for "religious discussions." Moderation can make that work.
2) I would be willing to moderate it. I think it can be done in a fair way to all that both prevents "preaching," "attacking" and "highjacking.
3) This would not be a place to support OR attack "statements about your faith you hold dear." Such discussions can occur at other websites. As my Explanation tries to state, the purpose of this would be to deal with specific aspects of religion that affect someone hiking the trail, not whether any aspect of religion is good or bad.

I am not trying to "discuss" whether this is a good or bad idea or convince anyone that this should happen. That is up to the reader. I am trying to guage how much support there is for what I have proposed. Nothing more.

TW

[The Weasel]

Shhheeeeesh! Look at the "poll/petition" numbers and figure it out for yourself. No need to dig up a big ol' can of worms, no matter what your personal convictions may be. The 'net is a big ol' place with plenty of room for this stuff, but I'm here to read and talk about the outdoors, not religion!

This proposal is not to "talk about religion." Examples of threads that I would view as possible/likely:

- Religious relationships of hostels. (Example: The Place in Damascus or Elmer's in Hot Springs)
- Hiker Friendly Churches/Facilities in Trail Towns
- Group hike of particular religious affinity
- Wearing religious clothing/headcoverings while hiking
- Observing religious holidays while hiking
- Religious dietary requirements and trail cooking/eating

TW

[dixicritter]

This proposal is not to "talk about religion." Examples of threads that I would view as possible/likely:

- Religious relationships of hostels. (Example: The Place in Damascus or Elmer's in Hot Springs)
- Hiker Friendly Churches/Facilities in Trail Towns
- Group hike of particular religious affinity
- Wearing religious clothing/headcoverings while hiking
- Observing religious holidays while hiking
- Religious dietary requirements and trail cooking/eating

TW

That can already be done right here in the Straight Forward forum TW. There's really no point in adding another forum for them to have to find moderators for is there?

[WritinginCT]

I didn't vote because I think my preference falls somewhere in between the two options. And as an atheist this only affects me peripherally. But for many people hiking is as much a spiritual quest as a physical trek and I think that should be recognized and people should be able to share their personal experiences without fear of ridicule.

As far as a separate forum area, technically there is a Trail Town forum where threads/information about churches, religious services, events, et cetera could be shared (just an example). I'm sure most topics would fit somewhere within the existing forum structure.

I think like the Women's forum issue this boils down to respect. Respect of the thread topic, and respect for the other posters. Everyone is entitled to their own opinions and should be allowed express them - but not in a disrespectful manner.

There really is no easy answer for any of this unfortunately.

[hoz]

Only if there is also a "Pagans on the AT" forum.

[The Weasel]

Dixi:

To answer your question:

Almost every topic on WB can be done on SF. But that's not WB's style, either. Most of those can also involve a lot of "how/when/where/why" discussion that isn't suited for SF, and that doesn't have to involve good/bad/preach/attack, either. Can't most of the topics on the Females On The Trail (forget correct name, sorry) be done as "Straight Forward"? But the purpose of that was, as I recall, to allow women to discuss, somewhat more freely, issues and ideas that are more unique to them which, when not set up separately, ended up getting very out of hand. And having a separate "area" is a way of saying, "these things are legitimate things to talk about, as long as handled in a civil fashion."

TW

[emerald]

I'm neither strongly for or against a religion forum, but I am pleased to see The Weasel indicate his willingness to moderate it.

More than once, I've desired to post a carefully chosen article about certain religious groups active in Pennsylvania which may be little known to many our readers. I can't say I was encouraged to post another by a non-AT article I once started.

[The Weasel]

Only if there is also a "Pagans on the AT" forum.

"Paganism" (a term which is usually a put-down and which I would hope woud not be used in such a forum) is often used to refer to unconventional religious groups. There is no reason that any who are in such groups could not post or ask questions in such a forum.

TW

[JAK]

How about a "Can Of Worms" forum?

[Lugnut]

So now it's going to be a real poll and not a petition?

[The Weasel]

"Polls" on this software can only be set up with a minimum of 2 responses, although I tried to set it up just as "Yes." I still ask that it be treated as a "petition" which is why I set the second response as including both "no" and "no opinion".

TW

[JAK]

I think only donating members should be able to vote in a petition. I thought it was a poll, sorry.

[dixicritter]

Dixi:

To answer your question:

Almost every topic on WB can be done on SF. But that's not WB's style, either. Most of those can also involve a lot of "how/when/where/why" discussion that isn't suited for SF, and that doesn't have to involve good/bad/preach/attack, either. Can't most of the topics on the Females On The Trail (forget correct name, sorry) be done as "Straight Forward"? But the purpose of that was, as I recall, to allow women to discuss, somewhat more freely, issues and ideas that are more unique to them which, when not set up separately, ended up getting very out of hand. And having a separate "area" is a way of saying, "these things are legitimate things to talk about, as long as handled in a civil fashion."

TW


TW

As you well know opinions are allowed in the Straight Forward forum as long as they pertain to the topic of the thread so your argument doesn't hold water.

dixi

[Lugnut]

"Polls" on this software can only be set up with a minimum of 2 responses, although I tried to set it up just as "Yes." I still ask that it be treated as a "petition" which is why I set the second response as including both "no" and "no opinion".

TW

It's still slanted by combining no with no opinion. It's like pleading no contest when you really are innocent. :eek:

[JAK]

Personally I always like it when people include references to their spiritual beliefs,
as long as they are well meaning and not adversely dogmatic, or intentionally offensive.

In general, I find the spritual beliefs of others to be inspirational, even when its contrary to my own.
Sometimes though, it just gives me gas.

[mudcap]

NO religion or politics forums should be allowed on the website. i'm sure the majority of members agree with me
I agree with you LW.

[JAK]

Oops. Sorry Dixi. I just read your reminder about this being a straightforward thread. Cheers all.

[The Weasel]

Dixi:

I am trying not to debate this topic, but merely explain how I think such a forum would work. Nearly very topic on WB could be put under the same strict rules that SF has, but most topics are not, and people discuss them in a free and casual way. SF is different, and serves different needs. I think a forum such as I propose can be handled just as maturely as, say, the PCT Forum, although pretty much everything in that forum could be here in SF, too. Hitchhiking to/from Warner Springs? Put that in SF. How do you pronouce ADZPCTKO? Put that in SF. Who can provide a shuttle to/from Campo? Again, SF works.

But SF isn't the "campfire" that the rest of WB is. Perhaps - I don't know yet - there is a group of people who would like to sit over to one side of the fire and quietly discuss among themselves some topics that the rest of the fire isn't interested in much, and can do so in a way that doesn't disrupt or disturb others. If there is such a group, and can do so that way, perhaps WB would welcome them and let them pull up another log to sit on and share the warmth of this Website.

And if there aren't many such, well, then there is no need.

The Weasel

[Cuffs]

Only if there is also a "Pagans on the AT" forum.


Now thats one forum Id vote for!! :D

[JAK]

I agree with Lone Wolf also. No dedicated forum.

Religion is allowed, as Rock explained well a few threads back, but no religious baiting and such.
I think the idea for most people is to keep it low key. Maybe not as low key as Lone Wolf, but low key.

Personally I really like the way some folks like Lone Wolf keep it in their pocket, as we say up here.
I think that often carries the message better. Some folks are very good going the other way though.
Some not so good.

[superman]

This topic is like a court room full of attorneys saying that their goal is to minimize litigation and then go on and on and on and on and on and on and etc, etc etc.:)

[saimyoji]

i voted no cause i don't care. if weasy wants to moderate it, let him give it a go. i won't post there, so that'll make him happy. :D

[Panzer1]

This is supposed to be a hiking web site, not a religious web site. That said members can already post religious related remarks if it has anything to do with hiking. I voted no.

Panzer

[Christus Cowboy]

I'd like to thank Weasel for the kind gesture on this but I voted "No"..... Contrary to what some may think, the reality is, that out of the the tens of thousands of posts on WB, the percentage of references to religion, faith, God, Christ, etc. are so microscopically small that you would probably have to go three to four decimal places just to find a discernable trace. This should be expected because after all this is a hiking/backpacking website.

With that said, as a practical matter I just don't think the volume exists to support such a forum. Under the current policy, if spirituality or faith related topics wish to be discussed individuals are permitted to open a thread under the same guidelines that would apply to any other topic.

[wrongway_08]

I voted yes. Dont really care to have one for myself but since there is such a list of people who care to discuss it as part of the A.T., then let them. That and I wont have to hear certain people cry about others downing on them for their thoughts when they post about religion in "normal hiker" threads.

At the same time, if it dont get used enough to justify it, you can always get rid of it.

#Added # - Thought about it, and as Cowboy said I cant really think of that many times members have really talked too much about it on here. Thinking its just another thing for mods to mod. They have their hands full with us crack heads already.

Screw it, make one - I just want to see how many will really use it. I wont be on there but its got me wondering...:-?

[superman]

I voted yes. Dont really care to have one for myself but since there is such a list of people who care to discuss it as part of the A.T., then let them. That and I wont have to hear certain people cry about others downing on them for their thoughts when they post about religion in "normal hiker" threads.

At the same time, if it dont get used enough to justify it, you can always get rid of it.

If you give the thumpers one thread they'll turn the whole site into a thumper site. It's that dominos thing all over again.:)

[bikerscars]

NO religion or politics forums should be allowed on the website. i'm sure the majority of members agree with me

:clap

[wrongway_08]

If you give the thumpers one thread they'll turn the whole site into a thumper site. It's that dominos thing all over again.:)

Just try'n to be nice.... my stomach hurts now... seeing spots and feeling dizzy, last time I try that! :D

[hopefulhiker]

I think that there should be a forum for religious stuff as it relates to the AT.. Goodness knows there are plenty of church sponsored hostels and support groups. There was a group in Bland that brought trail magic out to a campsite.. The forum could be a place where appreciation for all this church stuff on the trail could be expressed. I was allowed to stay in the basement of a church for about 10 days while getting over an injury.

[sheepdog]

Only if there is also a "Pagans on the AT" forum.
paganism is a religion

[rainmaker]

If you give the thumpers one thread they'll turn the whole site into a thumper site. It's that dominos thing all over again.:)

What's this got to do with Pizza?

[warraghiyagey]

NO religion or politics forums should be allowed on the website. i'm sure the majority of members agree with me
agreed. . .
If allowed it would look something like this . . . .

http://tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:zqQ5bewkKnMwnM:http://www.bestdamnpodcastever.com/Atomic%2520Bomb.gif (http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.bestdamnpodcastever.com/Atomic%2520Bomb.gif&imgrefurl=http://www.bestdamnpodcastever.com/heat/&usg=__QEvV6c3gV_jaBMyFMtiLa-pe8kI=&h=422&w=538&sz=217&hl=en&start=21&tbnid=zqQ5bewkKnMwnM:&tbnh=104&tbnw=132&prev=/images%3Fq%3Datomic%2Bbomb%26gbv%3D2%26ndsp%3D18%2 6hl%3Den%26sa%3DN%26start%3D18)

[sheepdog]

If you give the thumpers one thread they'll turn the whole site into a thumper site. It's that dominos thing all over again.:)
thumpers???? ah Christians, the only people that it's politically correct to call names :-?

[wrongway_08]

agreed. . .
If allowed it would look something like this . . . .

http://tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:zqQ5bewkKnMwnM:http://www.bestdamnpodcastever.com/Atomic%2520Bomb.gif (http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.bestdamnpodcastever.com/Atomic%2520Bomb.gif&imgrefurl=http://www.bestdamnpodcastever.com/heat/&usg=__QEvV6c3gV_jaBMyFMtiLa-pe8kI=&h=422&w=538&sz=217&hl=en&start=21&tbnid=zqQ5bewkKnMwnM:&tbnh=104&tbnw=132&prev=/images%3Fq%3Datomic%2Bbomb%26gbv%3D2%26ndsp%3D18%2 6hl%3Den%26sa%3DN%26start%3D18)


Thats why we need it ... things are starting to settle back down again. :p

[TJ aka Teej]

Already asked and answered. Several times.

[superman]

thumpers???? ah Christians, the only people that it's politically correct to call names :-?

I'm not much on christianity or political correctness. If you let the thumpers have a thread, then theyll take over the site, and then they'll feel that they can leave their religous litter in the shelters. There's no end to where it might lead...it could go on for ever and ever...amen.:)

Am I in trouble for mentioning a specific fast food restaurant?

[sheepdog]

I'm not much on christianity or political correctness. If you let the thumpers have a thread, then theyll take over the site, and then they'll feel that they can leave their religous litter in the shelters. There's no end to where it might lead...it could go on for ever and ever...amen.:)

Am I in trouble for mentioning a specific fast food restaurant?
How about just being civil? Pehaps kind?
http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/showthread.php?t=9482

[prain4u]

I am a pastor and a chaplain--but I voted "no".

I DO believe there needs to be SOMEPLACE for this sort of religious discussion. HOWEVER, I just don't believe that a separate WhiteBlaze forum is the place for it. PERHAPS an occasional WhiteBlaze thread or question would be appropriate--probably in the "Straight Forward" forum. (i.e. "Can anyone recommend a good Bible for backpacking"). MAYBE a special Facebook group could be created. Perhaps a new online group (similar to WhiteBlaze) could be created to discuss the religious/spiritual aspects of the AT. I just don't think that a separate religious forum should be added to WhiteBlaze. It's jst not the right place for it.

My fear is--that in a group as diverse as WhiteBlaze--a religious forum would become a place for dissention, controversy, and hurt feelings. Such a situation would benefit neither the WhiteBlaze Community nor our own individual spirituality. Thus, I voted "no".

[Blissful]

If you give the thumpers one thread they'll turn the whole site into a thumper site. .:)

You mean like a Bambi site?

:sun


Sorry. Anyway, If we have it I'd like to particapte, if we don't I'll still say what I feel I should say...appropriate to the post, that is.

[Blissful]

MAYBE a special Facebook group could be created.

I like this idea too.

[superman]

You mean like a Bambi site?

:sun


Sorry. Anyway, If we have it I'd like to particapte, if we don't I'll still say what I feel I should say...appropriate to the post, that is.

LOL,,,or a Pooh.

[superman]

I am a pastor and a chaplain--but I voted "no".

I DO believe there needs to be SOMEPLACE for this sort of religious discussion. HOWEVER, I just don't believe that a separate WhiteBlaze forum is the place for it. PERHAPS an occasional WhiteBlaze thread or question would be appropriate--probably in the "Straight Forward" forum. (i.e. "Can anyone recommend a good Bible for backpacking"). MAYBE a special Facebook group could be created. Perhaps a new online group (similar to WhiteBlaze) could be created to discuss the religious/spiritual aspects of the AT. I just don't think that a separate religious forum should be added to WhiteBlaze. It's jst not the right place for it.

My fear is--that in a group as diverse as WhiteBlaze--a religious forum would become a place for dissention, controversy, and hurt feelings. Such a situation would benefit neither the WhiteBlaze Community nor our own individual spirituality. Thus, I voted "no".

Clear thinking, IMHO.

[Chaplain]

I voted "yes". Comments: Controversy and etc., is already with us on WB. Religion is a part and fabric of so much of our lives. I would take part and find it probably very interesting. But I love WB as it is. When people make negative comments I do not take it personal and realize that this is like a "town hall meeting" with all kinds of folk and voices taking part. I just try to ignore the negative and try not to be negative myself. A thread devoted to religion (thread or part, whatever) would make WB richly more interesting, and I think that many would take part. To say that religion and such does not belong here on the trail-well its too late. Its part of what and who we all are. Whether we are Christian, Catholic, Muslim, Pagan, Wiccan, etc.

[ed bell]

I am a pastor and a chaplain--but I voted "no".

I DO believe there needs to be SOMEPLACE for this sort of religious discussion. HOWEVER, I just don't believe that a separate WhiteBlaze forum is the place for it. PERHAPS an occasional WhiteBlaze thread or question would be appropriate--probably in the "Straight Forward" forum. (i.e. "Can anyone recommend a good Bible for backpacking")<snip>..and that has been a thread here. It went along quite well. Yeah, there were some posts that had to be picked out, but it went just the way it should have.

[The Weasel]

For those who did not read the initial post, I am NOT proposing a forum "about religion." What IS being suggested is a forum about "Religion on the AT." This would NOT be a place to discuss the pros and cons of any denomination, faith or set of beliefs, but could be a place to share information and thoughts about aspects of the Trail that are religious related, whether it is gear, hostels, groups, religious institutions that are hiker friendly, or the like. I think it could be moderated in a careful manner that prevented flaming about beliefs, and could be useful just as topics involving, as I've noted elsewhere, women and the trail are. That is, I think, a good example, since that forum has recently changed slightly, with a request by LilRed that men, if they post there, try to avoid thoughtless comments. Similarly, such a request would be made in this kind of forum, and similar moderation could maintain civility.

TW

[WritinginCT]

If you give the thumpers one thread they'll turn the whole site into a thumper site. It's that dominos thing all over again.:)

I think the name calling was a little inappropriate. :-?

[Chaplain]

Sorry Weasel, I should have been clearer, but I think I am thinking about "Religion on the AT".

[Tennessee Viking]

I use the trail to have my own personal reflection time with the Big Guy. I know the intentions are good. But there are going to be potential abuse over time. But most of the possible threads of needing help to services or have worship hikes can usually be done in General, Shuttles, and Hook Ups.

[Wise Old Owl]

What is sad is the need that someone here “thinks” there is a need for a poll. Religion or politics is shunned discussion in an open place such as a bar or group area. In other countries it is the discussion and differences that are celebrated. We are still two hundred years later running around like a bunch of Puritans yelling “not in my town” just as much as not on my blog or internet. There are clearly places on the internet to discuss religion with like minded folk. http://topsites.blogflux.com/religion/ (http://topsites.blogflux.com/religion/)

Now I don’t pay the rent here, but I will say this, when it comes to religion and the AT, one only has to keep god in their heart. When I hike the AT and other trails, I feel closer to god than being in a church or synagogue. This is my way of “attending church.” When I am hiking alone I feel closer to god’s world. I am not there to preach or change someone’s opinion. I am there to walk in the footsteps of another. I seek a well known path and for me that is enough. I don’t feel the need to debate or start a discussion on WB, just as much as the woods feel the need to bend in the wind.


WOO

[randyg45]

I voted yes.
Of course, I'd vote "yes" to just about any forum with a reasonable tangent to hiking.
I'm a very tolerant person...

[ed bell]

<snip>This would NOT be a place to discuss the pros and cons of any denomination, faith or set of beliefs, but could be a place to share information and thoughts about aspects of the Trail that are religious related, whether it is gear, hostels, groups, religious institutions that are hiker friendly, or the like.<snip>The way I see it, there is a problem with the way you are presenting this. I think Dixi was making the same point earlier. You most certainly can share information about religious related "gear, hostels, groups(hiking related), religious institutions that are hiker friendly, or the like." These are not topics that are unacceptable here.

[Tin Man]

pointless discussion. all involved already agreed to be play nicely. the op is making mtns out of weasel piles.

[superman]

I think this thread is as refreshing as a vinegar douche (http://search.aol.com/aol/search?q=vinegar+douche&s_it=spelling) .:):D:rolleyes:

[Skyline]

What I have spoken out for and Sgt. Rock mentioned it in a post yesterday as being OK, is that people should be able to use 'faith language' in their responses without being jumped. Example: Someone shares something really good that happened to them. If I feel like responding "Praise the Lord," or "I pray to God it will work out the way you're hoping," non-believers should refrain from telling the world what they think about my beliefs - hijacking the thread. While I'm sure there are some who will refuse to believe it because they don't understand the source of my passion, I don't flaunt my faith, I just live it.


You don't flaunt your faith? Your religious beliefs are the main thing you post about here. It's like, um, a religion to you.

[Skyline]

thumpers???? ah Christians, the only people that it's politically correct to call names :-?


Except that Christianists and their political kin find ways to call other people not in lock-step with their dogma lots of names.

[Tin Man]

You don't flaunt your faith? Your religious beliefs are the main thing you post about here. It's like, um, a religion to you.


Except that Christianists and their political kin find ways to call other people not in lock-step with their dogma lots of names.

let;s ease back the throttle... lots of discussion lately on tolerance and playing nicey-nice, let's not muck it up, okay good buddy

[rhjanes]

given the opening guidelines, then no. Hikers seek an inner satisfaction will find it. Seeking external (like church, place for mass, passover), easy enough to find out in town.

[Summit]

You don't flaunt your faith? Your religious beliefs are the main thing you post about here. It's like, um, a religion to you.You must have a reading retention problem. Anyone can click on my name and view all my posts (excluding the last few days where we've been doing a lot of hashing out about this, and even then I haven't discussed specifics of my faith) and see that you are completely wrong. Why would you make a false statement that is so easily disproven? Doesn't help your cause or your reputation.

[bloodmountainman]

Except that Christianists and their political kin find ways to call other people not in lock-step with their dogma lots of names.
This is the reason this idea would never work.....no mention of any other faiths.
Christians have recieved this kind of prejudice for 2000 plus years. i vote no.

[Tin Man]

This is the reason this idea would never work.....no mention of any other faiths.
Christians have recieved this kind of prejudice for 2000 plus years. i vote no.


actually, the OP was talking about religion forum, not christian forum. but this is still important, as other groups might call for their own forums. then we would have gay, straight, fast hiker, slow hiker, bar tending, teetotalling, and even a warrghy forum, oops we already have that. anyway, new forums are not needed when a simple thread will do

[warraghiyagey]

Christians have recieved this kind of prejudice for 2000 plus years. i vote no.
All faiths have received violent prejudice for thousands of years. . . nothing has changed. . . it's a bad idea.

[Summit]

let;s ease back the throttle... lots of discussion lately on tolerance and playing nicey-nice, let's not muck it up, okay good buddyThanks for trying to keep the peace, man. I really appreciate you. But it will never last long because with Skyline's case, like Marta said a couple days ago, the brains aren't in the equation between the balls and the keyboard. Thanks for trying though. :)

[Tin Man]

All faiths have received violent prejudice for thousands of years. . . nothing has changed. . . it's a bad idea.

do all penguins share the same faith?

[Tin Man]

Thanks for trying to keep the peace, man. I really appreciate you. But it will never last long because with Skyline's case, like Marta said a couple days ago, the brains aren't in the equation between the balls and the keyboard. Thanks for trying though. :)

don't thank me, you ain't helping by bringing brains into the equation

[Frick Frack]

I'm not a religious person and find religion being preached to me as obnoxious. The same holds true with anything pushed on me. I find no difference in an UL-er for example incinuating he/she is better than me because they have it all figured out than a religious person pushing their faith on me. I come to this site for advice and to give advice about backpacking and the AT and nothing else. I can think of a few members who are obviously religious through the language in their posts but give invaluable information to questions asked on this site about backpacking & the AT. I might argue running shoes vs boots but I'm not here to argue religion (if its not pushed on me). I think having a religion forum is not necessary and if a thread starts concerning religion then those who choose to post (in a positive way) can & those who don't should not pay any attention to it. My .02 worth

[JAK]

One Christmas our pastor brought all the children up to the front and had them fill this big glass jar with all these nuts and bolts, and them asked them if it was full. They all said it was, they couldn't fit in any more nuts and bolts. Then the pastor took a small pitcher of water and poured it all in, filling it to overflowing. I think we can all do that here without a dedicated "Religion on the Trail" forum.

[sheepdog]

...........

[TJ aka Teej]

Straight Forward: This will be a very strict forum. It is for questions and answers.
The point of the OP is moot, having already been asked and answered several times before, but if you want to keep this thread open anyway, please stop the personal attacks and insults.

[OldStormcrow]

One Christmas our pastor brought all the children up to the front and had them fill this big glass jar with all these nuts and bolts, and them asked them if it was full. They all said it was, they couldn't fit in any more nuts and bolts. Then the pastor took a small pitcher of water and poured it all in, filling it to overflowing. I think we can all do that here without a dedicated "Religion on the Trail" forum.
Interesting perspective.......

[The Weasel]

The way I see it, there is a problem with the way you are presenting this. I think Dixi was making the same point earlier. You most certainly can share information about religious related "gear, hostels, groups(hiking related), religious institutions that are hiker friendly, or the like." These are not topics that are unacceptable here.

You are very correct, Ed, and I understand Dixi's point. On the other hand, and I use the Women's Forum as an example, most of the topics there can also fit in established topics of gear, health, safety, and so on. Yet there is a value in the separate area, and, frankly, it would be easier to keep disputation and controversy at a minimum if topics were in one area, too. There should be no insults or such in that forum, or anywhere else here.

I repeat here, as before: I don't think there is any place on WB for a forum that permits uncivil discussion, and discussion "about religion" is going to be that way. A forum, however, that considers the religious aspect of the Trail does not have to - and can be prevented from - a sectarian debate.

TW

[Newb]

Would this include a thread dedicated to worship of the Dark Master? Oh, and tree spirits. ...oh..and Erzul..for the animists.

[The Weasel]

As an example, were this such a forum, I would suggest that a moderator mention to Tin Man and Summit that their posts were both off topic and not useful, and hope that they would refrain from them.

TW

[Yukon]

I personally think it's stupid to stop people from talking about different things on a website...but whatever, this aint my place.

[The Weasel]

Would this include a thread dedicated to worship of the Dark Master? Oh, and tree spirits. ...oh..and Erzul..for the animists.

No, it would not. It would not have threads dedicated to any denomination or faith's worship. Nor would it allow pot stirring any more than WB does now.

TW

[kanga]

Would this include a thread dedicated to worship of the Dark Master? Oh, and tree spirits. ...oh..and Erzul..for the animists.
i was gonna agree with you but then i reread my contract and i'm not allowed to so i'll use sarcasm: i believe it said religion on the trail not christianity, so it would be a free-for-all.

[Cookerhiker]

You don't flaunt your faith? Your religious beliefs are the main thing you post about here. It's like, um, a religion to you.

Disagree - I haven't gone back and tallied but I suspect the vast majority of Summit's posts are pure hiking issues. And any "flaunting" of his faith is never in the context of putting down other people and their faith/non-faith.


Except that Christianists and their political kin find ways to call other people not in lock-step with their dogma lots of names.

Not all Christians - just some noisy obnoxious ones who find their way to the airwaves and likely represent a small minority of Christianity.

[Roots]

no Religion Or Politics Forums Should Be Allowed On The Website. I'm Sure The Majority Of Members Agree With Me
Yup...

[TJ aka Teej]

I personally think it's stupid to stop people from talking about different things on a website...but whatever, this aint my place.
No one is stopping anyone, Walter. The premise of the 'petition', that a certain topic is forbidden, is not correct.

[sheepdog]

Disagree - I haven't gone back and tallied but I suspect the vast majority of Summit's posts are pure hiking issues. And any "flaunting" of his faith is never in the context of putting down other people and their faith/non-faith.



Not all Christians - just some noisy obnoxious ones who find their way to the airwaves and likely represent a small minority of Christianity.
well said

[Cookerhiker]

I'm not a religious person and find religion being preached to me as obnoxious. The same holds true with anything pushed on me. I find no difference in an UL-er for example incinuating he/she is better than me because they have it all figured out than a religious person pushing their faith on me. I come to this site for advice and to give advice about backpacking and the AT and nothing else. I can think of a few members who are obviously religious through the language in their posts but give invaluable information to questions asked on this site about backpacking & the AT. I might argue running shoes vs boots but I'm not here to argue religion (if its not pushed on me). I think having a religion forum is not necessary and if a thread starts concerning religion then those who choose to post (in a positive way) can & those who don't should not pay any attention to it. My .02 worth

Your post reminded me: when I hiked Maine in '05 (http://www.trailjournals.com/entry.cfm?id=117260), I was told by a fellow middle-aged section hiker that my pack was way too heavy, I should hike ultra-light and he actually used religious imagery! He was very preachy. In a bizarre twist, he said I'd eventually get "old-time religion" and see the light about hiking ultralight. It'm confused:-? - I thought UL was new-time religion!

[JAK]

I think the woman forum is a good analogy.
Women do deserve a forum where they can talk more openly and freely about certain topics in manner and tone which they might feel is more specific to women, like when women get together in a group, even at a mixed party, a conversation might take a different tone.

Similarly, more openly religious folks may wish to have a place to do the same. I think the analogy falls apart though. It is true that there is more than one type of woman, just as there is more than one type of religious person. However, whether you are a woman or a man is alot more easily understood than whether you are a religious person. People can decide not to participate in a religious forum, but who decides who can't participate, and what can't be said. Some folks, like myself, struggle with more of what might be called a 'living faith', to put it kindly, and some of the things I say, and the way I say them, are often very offensive to folks of a stronger and more deeply rooted faith.

I think this is an interesting debate, but I don't think a religious forum is a good idea for this site.
I think there are too many good people, on both sides, that would be meanlessly offended.
It wouldn't be such a big deal, as we are all strong people, except that it really would be so meaningless.

Open debate and discourse is a great way of learning about people, and settling issues, and enjoying life. But it is not the only way. A young lawyer or politician or someone else well versed in the theory and practice of rhetoric and dialectic might not understand this. To a man with a hammer everything is a nail. An older lawyer should. There are other ways to operate. I think you get what I mean.

[Newb]

Can this get moved to the off topic forum please?

[JAK]

As a case in point, I think atheism is a form of religion, and that it falls under the umbrella of what I consider to be Christianity, in the general sense of the term, but I understand how that might offend alot of people. Similarly people that believe in God, but don't believe in Christ, still fall under Christianity in the general sense of the word. I would feel comfortable in any Religious Forum, but I don't think everyone would be comfortable with me. Then of course there are people of other faiths, that don't consider themselves Christians either, yet I include them under my umbrella. This offends alot of people. I get that. The problem is that Religion does not have to obey the laws of science or logic. I think when we try and make analogies, though we must, they often fail. Such is the nature of faith. The best thing to do here is live and let live, and the best way to do that in this case is without a Religious Forum.

[JAK]

Can this get moved to the off topic forum please?Do you mean the thread or the post? Please be specific.

[Summit]

don't thank me, you ain't helping by bringing brains into the equationOh well, I appreciate you not stirring the pot and trying to keep peace, whether you appreciate me appreciating it or not. :)

[Tin Man]

Oh well, I appreciate you not stirring the pot and trying to keep peace, whether you appreciate me appreciating it or not. :)

it's not that, just no thanks needed and no reason to question another member's mental abilities, its unchristianlike of you :)

[Yukon]

No one is stopping anyone, Walter. The premise of the 'petition', that a certain topic is forbidden, is not correct.

There is no politics and religion allowed because people cry like babies, they need to grow up. If you can't handle it, don't read it and don't post in it, it's that simple. People make it harder than it needs to be.

[Summit]

it's not that, just no thanks needed and no reason to question another member's mental abilities, its unchristianlike of you :)There's a difference between calling someone brainless and citing them for not using them, which I did. But now in trying to be nice I've caused you to start stirring the 'unchristianlike' pot again . . . sorry!

[Blue Jay]

Can this get moved to the off topic forum please?

Why, this one is staying on topic better than most? I know your just trying to live up to your avitar.

[JAK]

There is no politics and religion allowed because people cry like babies, they need to grow up. If you can't handle it, don't read it and don't post in it, it's that simple. People make it harder than it needs to be.It's not that simple.
So stop crying like a baby and grow up.

[Newb]

The orginal question was, "Shall there be a "Religion on the Trail" Forum on WhiteBlaze?". Isn't there already plenty of that in the off-topic forum?

The forests are my Cathedral. That's the most religious statement you'll ever get out me vis a vis AT hiking.

I think what we want to avoid is a "Prosthelytizing" forum.

[Yukon]

It's not that simple.
So stop crying like a baby and grow up.

Don't try to tell me how simple it is or isn't, I have been an administrator of a different website for over 4 years now, there are easier ways to handle it.

[sheepdog]

As a case in point, I think atheism is a form of religion, and that it falls under the umbrella of what I consider to be Christianity, in the general sense of the term, but I understand how that might offend alot of people. Similarly people that believe in God, but don't believe in Christ, still fall under Christianity in the general sense of the word. I would feel comfortable in any Religious Forum, but I don't think everyone would be comfortable with me. Then of course there are people of other faiths, that don't consider themselves Christians either, yet I include them under my umbrella. This offends alot of people. I get that. The problem is that Religion does not have to obey the laws of science or logic. I think when we try and make analogies, though we must, they often fail. Such is the nature of faith. The best thing to do here is live and let live, and the best way to do that in this case is without a Religious Forum.
You have the words Christianity and Religion confused.
Samples of some different religions(this is my opinion and others may not agree):
christianity
paganism
athiesm
darwinism
wicca
satanism
judaism
hinduism
budism
etc......

[ASUGrad]

Everyone talks about their beliefs. It's just a fact of life. The question is whether to create a religion area so we can keep religion(which tends to be divisive) out of the other forums.

[ASUGrad]

As a former atheist, I would say that atheism is not a religion. That's kinda the whole point. Religion is a system for worshiping a deity and atheists don't believe in deities. Humanism may be a better term although I don't think it is the same as atheism.

[JAK]

As a former atheist, I would say that atheism is not a religion. That's kinda the whole point. Religion is a system for worshiping a deity and atheists don't believe in deities. Humanism may be a better term although I don't think it is the same as atheism.I respect that point of view, but I think that is mostly semantics. All words have more than one meaning, and all generalizations break down eventually. I would consider you to be just as likely to be spiritual, in the general sense of the word, as anyone else, even if you are less spiritual in some other senses of the word.

"Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." ;)

[JAK]

As a former atheist, I would say that atheism is not a religion. That's kinda the whole point. Religion is a system for worshiping a deity and atheists don't believe in deities. Humanism may be a better term although I don't think it is the same as atheism.I also consider myself an atheist, and not just a former one, if that is any help.

[JAK]

You have the words Christianity and Religion confused.
Samples of some different religions(this is my opinion and others may not agree):
christianity
paganism
athiesm
darwinism
wicca
satanism
judaism
hinduism
budism
etc......Yeah I'm all those things also, well most of them, at least partly. Most people would not agree.
But those are only words. All generalizations fail, but are still useful of course.

As I said. I know I am male.
To say I am religious and welcome in a Religious Forum is a different matter entirely.

[Gaiter]

religious stuff is like political stuff, best left of out of conversation unless you are around all like minded people... otherwise you are asking for an argument.....
thats not an anti-religion statement, its just a good rule of thumb for peaceful social interaction

[Jaybird62]

religious stuff is like political stuff, best left of out of conversation unless you are around all like minded people... otherwise you are asking for an argument.....
thats not an anti-religion statement, its just a good rule of thumb for peaceful social interaction


I wholeheartedly agree!!

[prain4u]

The intense passion (and sometimes minor hostility) that people are bringing to just this simple thread regarding religion demonstrates why I don't want to see a "Religion on the Trail" forum on WhiteBlaze. This current thread is pretty "basic" and "Straight Forward". Yet, it has "stirred the pot" (at least a little bit) and caused people to be somewhat "harsh" with one another. Conversely, this same thread has done very little to brighten people's mood. It has probably failed to improve anyone's hiking trip. It has probably not enhanced anybody's religious or spiritual experience. Therefore, Why would we want to have a new forum that would be like this--or worse--ALMOST ALL OF THE TIME?

[The Weasel]

The intense passion (and sometimes minor hostility) that people are bringing to just this simple thread regarding religion demonstrates why I don't want to see a "Religion on the Trail" forum on WhiteBlaze. This current thread is pretty "basic" and "Straight Forward". Yet, it has "stirred the pot" (at least a little bit) and caused people to be somewhat "harsh" with one another. Conversely, this same thread has done very little to brighten people's mood. It has probably failed to improve anyone's hiking trip. It has probably not enhanced anybody's religious or spiritual experience. Therefore, Why would we want to have a new forum that would be like this--or worse--ALMOST ALL OF THE TIME?

First, such a forum need not be "like this" even some of the time. The proposed forum would not be "about religion" but topics that may not involve 'passion'.

Second, it appears that the Moderators here are being very gentle in their actions, which is a good thing, too. But there has been, frankly, very little in the way of seriously insulting or obnoxious behavior, and I think that suggests that such a forum might work.

Third, the purpose of this poll is not to 'improve anyone's hiking trip.' The purpose IS to see if there is support for a forum that should improve hiking trips. If there is no support, it has no chance of being approved. If the forum ever happens, and it doesn't help (or, conversely, hurts) hiking trips, it will either die on its own or be cancelled.

TW

[Alli]

I agree. My co-workers and I are able to talk about religion and politics, because even though we might disagree, we are all college students and don't cry when we don't agree with someone.

I voted no because people here get offended way too easily and the mods censor left and right about anything controversial. I would be in more support of a "controversial" forum where there's not censorship.

[TJ aka Teej]

The orginal question was, "Shall there be a "Religion on the Trail" Forum on WhiteBlaze?". Isn't there already plenty of that in the off-topic forum?

Straight forward has worked for 'Religion on the Trail' topics before. Take for instance Summit's 'Christian Brotherhood Hike!' thread, ran from June to September, 100+ posts, 6000+ views without any problems.

[Summit]

Straight forward has worked for 'Religion on the Trail' topics before. Take for instance Summit's 'Christian Brotherhood Hike!' thread, ran from June to September, 100+ posts, 6000+ views without any problems.That's a fact, jack! There were a couple of 'intruders' early on but the mods did their job beautifully and the thread was a success.

[TJ aka Teej]

That's a fact, jack! There were a couple of 'intruders' early on but the mods did their job beautifully and the thread was a success.
No posts were deleted in that thread, Summit.

[sheepdog]

..........

[Summit]

No posts were deleted in that thread, Summit.I just skimmed back through it. I could have sworn there were a couple of 'nasties' but your access to records as a moderator are certainly more trustworthy than my memory! :) So I'm OK with Striking the intruders comment but keeping the praise to the mods for keeping an eye on it.

[Tin Man]

There's a difference between calling someone brainless and citing them for not using them, which I did. But now in trying to be nice I've caused you to start stirring the 'unchristianlike' pot again . . . sorry!

mighty fine distinction that many aren't gonna see and ain't gonna make you sound smart or make you any more likable. and i wasn't stirring the pot, but whatever, feel free to blather on, i am done with you :)

[Gray Blazer]

mighty fine distinction that many aren't gonna see and ain't gonna make you sound smart or make you any more likable. and i wasn't stirring the pot, but whatever, feel free to blather on, i am done with you :)
Get thee behind me!:D

[Tin Man]

Get thee behind me!:D

a-men

[superman]

I think this thread is as refreshing as a vinegar douche (http://search.aol.com/aol/search?q=vinegar+douche&s_it=spelling) .:banana

[NCYankee]

I'm not going to read through 7 pages to see if someone else has said what I say but why is the no/no opinion the same vote? I have an opinion but why should my no vote count as if I have no opinion?

[Summit]

Tin Man,
He left out a word . . . it's get thee behind me satan. Someone just called you satan again. Or maybe it was meant for me. Who knows? Who cares? Go ahead . . . blame me . . . like you blame me when you read something into words and accuse me of saying things I did not say. Go ahead. Get mad. Snivel away!

[Tin Man]

I'm not going to read through 7 pages to see if someone else has said what I say but why is the no/no opinion the same vote? I have an opinion but why should my no vote count as if I have no opinion?

the weeze had his weasons that aren't worth repeating. best to just walk away.

[sheepdog]

I'll just moderate myself again
.....

[Tin Man]

I'll just moderate myself again
.....

i turned the other cheek, so he could smack me again. does that sound like something satan would do? :)

[Summit]

I'll just moderate myself again
.....You moderate while I mitigate . . .
.
.
.
.
:)

[The Weasel]

I'm not going to read through 7 pages to see if someone else has said what I say but why is the no/no opinion the same vote? I have an opinion but why should my no vote count as if I have no opinion?

"No opinion" = "I don't care one way or another."

The reason that was combined with "Yes" is because my question isn't "what is a vote" on this, because Admins don't decide things here (and shouldn't) based on voting. If a zillion percent supported this idea, and they decided it was a bad idea, then it doesn't fly. If 5 people decided it IS a good idea, and a lot didn't, they might still do it.

My only question was "How many people support this idea." The way the software is set up, there have to be two options. So I combined "no" and "no opinion". That doesn't mean people can't comment, and I haven't prevented anyone from doing so.

TW

[Skyline]

. . . Not all Christians - just some noisy obnoxious ones who find their way to the airwaves and likely represent a small minority of Christianity.


Agreed. That's why I used the more specific term "Christianist," instead of "Christian."

[Christus Cowboy]

Agreed. That's why I used the more specific term "Christianist," instead of "Christian."

Skyline...I appreciate you making the distinction there and you are right there's a fundamental difference between the two...

[Tin Man]

weezy, time to shut this bad boy down? straight forward you can do it yourself. just a suggestion. i think it is played out now.

[OldStormcrow]

Happy Ostara, everybody!
Blessed Be!

http://www.britainexpress.com/counties/wiltshire/Stonehenge/2Stonehenge-140706-002542-s.jpg

[Cannibal]

Happy Ostara, everybody!
Blessed Be!

http://www.britainexpress.com/counties/wiltshire/Stonehenge/2Stonehenge-140706-002542-s.jpg
Ahhh, the real "easter". Blessed be to you.

[Morpheus]

I vote YES and I'm a Humanist. Everybody has the ability to skip threads. We all do it daily. I think most of us are skipping Hyperflow threads by now, but alot of people showed alot of interest in "Intimacy on the trail" :eek: . "Religion on the trail" will certainly never get that volume, but there are some who would enjoy it.
I remain open-minded to religious and philosophical discussion and debate. I don't know everything about anything. I'm really surprised by the ferocious religious intolerance r/t small mentions of Jesus or God by a few on this site.
No, this isn't a witnessing site, but why does a religious forum, that doesn't require your participation in any way, offend you. Are you so uncertain of your own beliefs that you're afraid of conversion? Go ahead take your best shots. I can take it. :)

[sheepdog]

I vote YES and I'm a Humanist. Everybody has the ability to skip threads. We all do it daily. I think most of us are skipping Hyperflow threads by now, but alot of people showed alot of interest in "Intimacy on the trail" :eek: . "Religion on the trail" will certainly never get that volume, but there are some who would enjoy it.
I remain open-minded to religious and philosophical discussion and debate. I don't know everything about anything. I'm really surprised by the ferocious religious intolerance r/t small mentions of Jesus or God by a few on this site.
No, this isn't a witnessing site, but why does a religious forum, that doesn't require your participation in any way, offend you. Are you so uncertain of your own beliefs that you're afraid of conversion? Go ahead take your best shots. I can take it. :)
sounds like common sense.

we do not allow you kind on this site :D

[stranger]

This site if valuable to me for a number of reasons, some of them include a break from life and being able to talk trail on my lunch hour, getting new information about gear, whether it be home made or just introduced by a major company, finding out trail conditions for upcoming hikes or just catch up with some mates from the years gone by.

All of these things are absolutely in line with hiking along the Appalachian Trail. A religious forum might be interesting for those people who would value such a forum, but it doesn't really have anything to do with the trail. Religion is not a part of the trail in any context, it may be a part of people who hike along the trail, but that's a different thing altogether.

So if we are to have religious forums on here, then what about a socialist forum, capitalist forum, communist forum, feminist forum, trade union forum, pro life forum, pro choice forum, democratic forum and republican forums? You see, it never ends. This site is about the AT and AT hiking, which includes most of the things listed in existing forums like trail town facilities and shelters, gear and hostels, new lightweight materials and shuttle services.

There are a thousand sites dedicated to religion already, why on whiteblaze?

So, if you are looking for numbers to gain support for a religious forum, I think you will find you will struggle to get those numbers here. That doesn't mean there is anything wrong with religious forums, just the location of them. Think about it, someone finds out about whiteblaze and clicks on and then is seeing a debate about religion, can you see how that might be a little confusing? If someone wants to talk religion than there are thousands of facilities available, especially in the US, to do do. Why here?

Stranger

[Slo-go'en]

I'm neutral on the matter. Don't care one way or the other.

However, I can see where those of a religous bent might want a forum, seperate from any other, to have thier thoughts and experiances as it relates to faith and the trial collected in one place. There does seem to be a number of active WB members with strong faith and maybe they should have thier own place of worship. Maybe it would help keep it from creeping into other places.

[max patch]

So if we are to have religious forums on here, then what about a socialist forum, capitalist forum, communist forum, feminist forum, trade union forum, pro life forum, pro choice forum, democratic forum and republican forums? You see, it never ends. This site is about the AT and AT hiking, which includes most of the things listed in existing forums like trail town facilities and shelters, gear and hostels, new lightweight materials and shuttle services.



You can lump the socialist forum, communist forum, feminist forum, trade union forum, pro choice forum, and democratic forum into one giant forum.

[Lugnut]

You can lump the socialist forum, communist forum, feminist forum, trade union forum, pro choice forum, and democratic forum into one giant forum.

Oh! Good one! :banana

[Tinker]

NO religion or politics forums should be allowed on the website. i'm sure the majority of members agree with me

I agree, though maybe not to the exact wording of LW's reply. I think that a religion forum is completely unnecessary since it, like sex, food, etc. etc. etc. is a part of life. Why segregate life from hiking. Should we have separate polls for the express discussion of sex? Where would the spontaneity be, and the humor? In a similar manner, discussion of religion adds a certain amount of spice to life. Maybe folks are likely to argue more about it than, say, jock itch or whether to sleep with or hang your food (well, maybe not :p). Just as with any other subject, such as in my case, hiking the PCT, if it doesn't pique your interest, don't look at the posts. If it does, enjoy participation in the discussion.

[Morpheus]

Though I practice no religion, nor believe in a supernatural being, I find hiking alone in forests a very spiritual thing. It feels like my real home. That to me, for lack of a better term, is a religious experience. I doubt that walking in the woods directly inspires anybody to become a socialist or worse a Rush Limb-blah lover.
I say give it a go and assess the success vs. problems after a month.
The Capitalist forum is known here as "Gear for Sale".

[Chaplain]

A thingy on "Religion on the AT" would be great. You need not read it. Some examples, -I am a Chaplain in the Texas prison system. We have a chaplain who joined us about 1.5 years ago. Before then he was a Methodist minister whose congregation was a "mobile" church on the AT. He hiked and the church would meet outdoors on the AT. The church was official and was very successful in attendance and meeting needs on the trail. If I remember right they even gave to missions. A forum on religion on the AT would mentions stuff like this and etc. I can see this happening whether it is info on meetings, concerts, prayer meetings, gatherings, meditation groups, etc. for all faiths. Just don't disparage other faiths. Actually very simple. Just practice courtesy.

[Morpheus]

24% are YES. That seems like interest. The other 76% are afraid they'll be distracted and miss something in the Intimacy threads. ;-)

[Tinker]

I'm neutral on the matter. Don't care one way or the other.

However, I can see where those of a religous bent might want a forum, seperate from any other, to have thier thoughts and experiances as it relates to faith and the trial collected in one place. There does seem to be a number of active WB members with strong faith and maybe they should have thier own place of worship. Maybe it would help keep it from creeping into other places.

I stumbled upon a website for Christian hikers quite a while ago. Unfortunately, sometimes there is more animosity among "brethren" than there is between "believer" and "unbeliever".
On a hiking forum, I'm merely a Christian who enjoys hiking. On a "Christian" hiking forum I might be the "Methodist" (though I have no affiliation, but the moniker is for illustration purposes only) who enjoys hiking.
I think I enjoy being a human who enjoys creation and believes that someone (some intelligent force with an interest in our wellbeing) had the love to share it (nature) with us.

[Blissful]

I stumbled upon a website for Christian hikers quite a while ago. Unfortunately, sometimes there is more animosity among "brethren" than there is between "believer" and "unbeliever".
On a hiking forum, I'm merely a Christian who enjoys hiking. On a "Christian" hiking forum I might be the "Methodist" (though I have no affiliation, but the moniker is for illustration purposes only) who enjoys hiking.
I think I enjoy being a human who enjoys creation and believes that someone (some intelligent force with an interest in our wellbeing) had the love to share it (nature) with us.


Nicely put and true.

[attroll]

This has been brought up in the past and the results are always the same. We have stated there will be no religion forums on this web site. The answer was no then and the answer is no now.

As you can also see the vote is 3 -1 in favor of not having a Religion on the Trail forum.

[sheepdog]

This has been brought up in the past and the results are always the same. We have stated there will be no religion forums on this web site. The answer was no then and the answer is no now.

As you can also see the vote is 3 -1 in favor of not having a Religion on the Trail forum.
Is that your final answer???:)

[superman]

Is that your final answer???:)

:)

[ncnewbierhiker]

Its called ****ing hiking

[Tinker]

Its called ****ing hiking

Who knew:rolleyes:?

[Heater]

the weeze had his weasons that aren't worth repeating. best to just walk away.

You misspelled "wepeating".

[Tinker]

You misspelled "wepeating".

Channelling Elmer Fudd? :-?;):)

[Rain Man]

This has been brought up in the past and the results are always the same. We have stated there will be no religion forums on this web site. The answer was no then and the answer is no now.

God bless ATTroll!!!! :)

Rain:sunMan

.

[mweinstone]

i voted no. and i love jesus.

[Homer&Marje]

I voted yes and I dont love jesus.

[EvilCapitalist]

Yes, there should be a forum stictly for religion. I am NOT a Christian, but the rest of y'all who have never been to church need to understand that MOST people in American (80% or better I think) are of the Judeo/Christian belief and it is a VERY IMPORTANT aspect of their daily lives and their philosophy in life.

Have you non-Christians and atheists ever thought that if these folks had their own forums that it would actually help you not to have to put up with "the preaching" on the other forums.

It's a "win-win" for everyone. It's amazing how Christians are tolerant of us non-Christians and athiests not accepting their views, but a lot of athiests and non-Christians are so in-tolerant and militant towards Christians. Remember, our forefathers guaranteed us freedom of religion.

[UnkaJesse]

Is this shiite still going on?

[SGT Rock]

If it is such a good idea - then a server costs $6 a month on many places, the domain would be about $10 a year, and the site license is about $165. If the niche is there, then someone can be successful at it. It is one we don't want to fill.

[warraghiyagey]

If it is such a good idea - then a server costs $6 a month on many places, the domain would be about $10 a year, and the site license is about $165. If the niche is there, then someone can be successful at it. It is one we don't want to fill.
So there's that. . . :sun:sun:sun

The End.:)

[saimyoji]

right. the end. no more last words, just....


the end

[Homer&Marje]

Have a good night Folks. Dancing Banana Super Parade.



:banana:banana:banana:banana:banana:banana:banana: banana:banana:banana:banana:banana:banana:banana:b anana:banana:banana:banana:banana:banana:banana:ba nana:banana:banana:banana:banana:banana:banana:ban ana:banana

[superman]

Have a good night Folks. Dancing Banana Super Parade.



:banana:banana:banana:banana:banana:banana:banana: banana:banana:banana:banana:banana:banana:banana:b anana:banana:banana:banana:banana:banana:banana:ba nana:banana:banana:banana:banana:banana:banana:ban ana:banana


I love super parades:D

[HikerRanky]

Go away for 1.5 days and looks what happens.... I think we have the answer on a new forum, and the answer is no.....

Closing this one down...