if you don’t believe in G-d, you simply need to examine your definition of G-d. do i believe in a bearded old dude who sits in the sky on a flaming throne and says profound things to schizophrenics? maybe. anything is possible. but i don’t direct my prayers to that god. that god is just a god, not G-d; and yet that god is G-d, as all things and all possibilities are. to tell the truth, i don’t pray at all. or maybe i’m praying all the time.

whatever the case, i like this bitch.

Thisismike, the references to PB Schori’s perspective “as a scientist,” refer to her PhD in marine biology. Her detractors belittle that background, for what purpose, I do not know. Episcopalians, with the exception of conservative “schismatics” who are afraid of ‘mo cooties and girl germs, feel strongly that religion with a literal interpretation of scripture and blind following of church tradition without the component of “reason” is deadly, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. The facts that my brains did not need to be checked at the door and questions were encouraged while unanimity of thought was not required drew me in. Maybe it’s a trap!

There are (at least) two types of religion: that which assumes that it fully knows God and seeks to impose his set of ancient rules on mankind (usually others), and that which constantly seeks to come to some limited understanding of the Divine and to use it to live better, more meaningful lives.

Whether or not one believes in a diety, I think it’s pretty clear which type of religion makes better neighbors.

However, this woman to me is a glimmer of hope that maybe, just maybe, there is some actual good in religion. Let’s hope that others will follow behind.