pastors who don’t believe in God

Last updated on: July 25, 2011 at 4:13 pm by David Hayward

pastors who don’t believe in God 2011-07-25T16:13:05-04:00 David Hayward

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I listened to an amazing Tapestry show on CBC radio yesterday called Pastors Who Don’t Believe in God (click on the link to listen to an audio of the interview). It was very moving to listen to “Adam” (not his real name), an American pastor who’s voice was disguised and details slightly changed to protect his identity. I don’t want to give away too much, but you don’t have to agree with everything they say. The bottom line is that so many people are going through a crisis of belief, faith and intellect and there is no room for them to experience this safely, which often results in very tragic social ramifications.

Even though our stories are different, I completely understood how difficult a situation he is in. This is what I’m passionate about because it doesn’t just apply to pastors but to millions of people who are changing their minds and losing their religion. He feels the need to keep his struggle a secret from his congregation and even, to some extent, his family. He knows the cost: it is very difficult for pastors to find other employment because of our specialized education in strictly theology and church.

I did struggle with exposing my doubts and questions for a while. But then I finally started posting my ideas on this blog and the inevitable had to happen. I finally left the ministry last year. But Adam is completely right: it’s a very difficult transition. Fortunately, I have a wife who is understanding, as well as a few close friends who support me.

Plus I receive a lot of encouragement from many of you, my readers.

Please take the time to listen. She also interviews a liberal Christian scholar, as well as a prominent American atheist.

I think you will find the show fascinating!

I used this older cartoon which illustrates the theme very well I think.

You can buy a print of this cartoon here!

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