I was raised in a conservative Christian home. I was expected to go to church every Sunday, unless I was on my deathbed. I was even enrolled in a private Christian school from 3rd - 8th grade where we had to memorize bible verses and could only wear shorts that were no shorter than 2 inches above our knees when kneeling (talk about controlling
). So I was raised in "one of those" homes.
However, I am proud of my ability to reach beyond that kind of upbringing, which obviously tends to be very sheltered. When I left home for college, I just went crazy and did alot of the stuff I never did while living "under my parents roof" for fear of reprisal.
That included challenging my religious beliefs on an intellectual level, which would never have been acceptable to do while living with my parents.
One issue that I have with organized religion in general (no matter what the faith) is that it is ultimately a business. Thus, some decisions are made based solely on power issues or money. However, by far the worst thing is the hypocracy. I HATE THAT WITH A PASSION. Some many people get up on their "high horse" and like to look down on others as if they are "less than" worthy to be at "their" church.
I don't believe that one church is necessarily the "right" one. However, I do have a belief system centered around the idea of forgiveness and salvation for anyone who seeks it. I will be the first to admit that this cannot be rationalized. It is a faith based belief system, and cannot be supported by any logical proof.