I Went to Church...and Liked it!

[@TRoninYT]

Hearing your experience with the children's service focused on healthy emotional regulation and the adult service focused on accepting and being kind to people who don't agree with you just made me feel so warm inside

[@memecity9849]

People underestimate how powerful church can be on the human psyche

[@Justin_Beaver564]

Similar to a multi level marketing seminar

[@memecity9849]

@Justin_Beaver564 i've experienced both. The only difference is the theological aspect with churches

[@HarryNicNicholas]

like having nails banged into your brain.

[@jeffruebens8355]

Powerful in both good and bad ways. It depends on the church and the person. Why the founding fathers wrote the First Amendment, after they saw the religious wars in Europe and the problems with the national Anglican church in England and the ties to King James.

[@jakec9522]

And the church knows that. That's how they exploit you. And make no mistake. They'll find a way to exploit Kristi too. Hopefully, she realizes that before they hurt her too much.

[@Goaded_Thistle]

This is so encouraging! I've considered attending my local UU church, but I think if I were to walk into a place with that much love and acceptance, I would melt into a puddle of tears and have to be scooped up with a snow shovel. 😅

[@jezebelvibes]

😅 that was me the first two sermons. I was bawling like a baby.

[@Krimsondelamber]

Yes! I rely on my hard outer shell to keep from spilling my insides everywhere and washing away completely. But it's nice to know there is an organized locus of kindness and community in this benighted world.

[@irfanalakbar]

@@jezebelvibes Try going to a Mosque nearby

[@Freeingthetruth]

My heart dropped for a moment at the title. 😭

[@jezebelvibes]

😅 a little sorry

[@Freeingthetruth]

@ After watching the video I feel better lol. Also would you ever consider making a sort of teaching series like if you collected all the things you know and gave stuff that people could take notes on? It would make debates a lot easier

[@Sham9909]

Same here.

[@areuaware6842]

I've seen a lot of people over the years that have "deconstructed" but they always lead you full circle back to where they started. It's curious...

[@sun1one1]

I knew right away she went to a UU church because I'm a UU too, heh.

[@SharlaO]

I just couldn’t. I’ve found quite a “community” feel with my TikTok deconstructs. I’m also homeless at the moment so a tangible community will have to wait. I’ve barely got to the point where I can hear scripture without fighting off a panic attack. I still can’t listen too any praise and worship or any “ church “ songs. 🤢 I am so happy for you pushing forward on this healing journey ❤

[@brittneybabeee4031]

You are so strong, love & I hope things get better for you ASAP! ❤

[@JaniceinOR]

If there is a UU community near you, they may have other events that do not include "church" music, if you are interested. Some have weekly meditation, or drum circles, or book clubs, or discussion groups about social activism.

[@Queenread82]

Hey SharlaO I just started “going to” Recovering From Religion online meetings. It is affirming to talk and listen to people who have left their faith traditions. Some are full on atheists, some are still deconverting. If you go to the RFR website you can see a calendar of meetings. I found it through Meetup - I just searched recovering from religion.

[@bootskanchelsis3337]

homelessness seems to be a norm these days. Many due to medical bills.

[@belkyhernandez8281]

I hope things improve for you soon. I am not religious but visited the Unitarians a few times when working on LGBT issues because the people were very supportive of people in my group. So if you ever bump into them, I think they will probably be ok.

[@user-sm2wd3fn3i]

Thanks for doing your series on Christian Nationalism. It should be taught at the university level.

[@richardrickford3028]

Kristi you have always struck me as someone who is very warm and generous and good hearted. And also very intelligent though that is less important than the first points. I am so glad you have found a sense of wellbeing and community in this church. It is very much what you deserve - I can imagine that you might become one of the speakers and give some excellent talks and insights. But please keep up the excellent work you do here as well.

[@iDontHoldBackWithMyComments]

Kristi, I was hating on you on Tiktok, but look who’s been subscribed and listening to you and “mindshift” and other atheist channels?😂 I have now REPENTED and deconverted from christianity. Please continue “planting the seeds” and know that you’re helping people find the truth! You have been nothing but kind.😊

[@jezebelvibes]

This gives me so much happiness and hope ♥️ congrats on finding your most authentic path

[@RobertStambaugh-l5r]

Jesus is the truth .

[@MeriaDuck]

​@@RobertStambaugh-l5rwhy would you think your comment is going to change anything anywhere....

[@jenna2431]

Welcome to the "fold". Best thing I ever did after 40 Chrizbian years. Best for your journey.

[@RobertStambaugh-l5r]

@@MeriaDuck All humans usually choose to believe in Jesus or Darwin . I do not have the power to convert anyone , so i don't try to do that . All i urge people to do is question Darwinist evolution . How can an ape ' magically ' turn into a human ? It just isn't possible and it isn't science .

[@Nicolesurrenders]

I’ve been to Unitarian churches and I’ve always enjoyed it ❤sweet people who are open and non judgmental

[@whynot-wx4dc]

Which church? I was faced with terfs and hate at my local uu church

[@jakec9522]

Do they pay taxes?

[@JaniceinOR]

@whynot-wx4dc I am so sad you were treated that way. That is sadly ignorant of them. The UU church I went to in Casper had a nonbinary member who was on the board and very active in leading rituals. I hope you can find a welcoming community.

[@JaniceinOR]

@@jakec9522 A church is a nonprofit, and nonprofits are generally tax-exempt in the US. Why?

[@LOwens-xf8yo]

@@whynot-wx4dc I’m so sorry to hear that. There is a UU saying - if you’ve been to one UU church, you’ve seen one UU church. They are all different, because of its inherent flexibility. I’ve been to several, but I never encountered hate. That’s awful!

[@darkhill556]

Thank you, Kristi! This is just fascinating. I can’t imagine going to something that looks like a church service but doesn’t have all of the bias and blood magic. I was deeply involved in church music before i deconverted, and that is the only part of Christianity that i actually miss. Thanks for sharing your experience!

[@jezebelvibes]

It was truly fascinating and also so healing. During the service, they announced they were looking for more help with music/sound. Maybe finding a UU church near you might be a good way to get back to music! If not, there might be some local orgs or groups that could help you re ignite that interest 😊 community is just so important

[@jamminjames-l6v]

I didn't mean to send all those emojis stuff, but that's why I need to talk with you!!??!! All kinds of strange things keep happening with me Please get in touch with me I'm à member you have all my information on file!!! Please please please Thank you so much... Peace ✌️

[@RSween-dz1ve]

I’ve been going to church for AA type of meetings - and it allows me to choose my own Higher Power. I go with Love, Unity, and Creative Energy. My AA type of group gives so much community and also allows me to believe what I want with critical thinking. Very therapeutic. I’m gay and my sponsor is trans. The addict community I’m in is such a beautiful healing community with such diverse people with diverse spiritual views, all working towards common healing. ❤

[@RSween-dz1ve]

The church doesn’t lead the group tho. They just let us use the building. 😋

[@lorenzoblum868]

​@@jezebelvibes come join my church. You'll be my first and only member 😊

[@toddvtx1300]

At the beginning of 2023 I decided that I was going to watch positive uplifting videos once a week just for myself. I stumbled across a Unitarian universalist sermon. Like you, I am an ex Christian who does not believe anymore. But the sermon blew me away so I went to my local Unitarian universalist Church and I was so surprised and amazed that it exista. Been going ever since and I love it. Glad you found it.

[@pattymcphee6511]

Glad you to the opportunity to reach out to us. Your story is much like mine.

[@avivastudios2311]

As a Christian, I'm very happy that this group exists. Everyone needs a tribe. I hope this saves people from loneliness and depression.

[@pwoody9416]

Late in life my mother found a great community in her UU church. She enjoyed the people and the vibe of the organization. Thank you, Kristi.

[@fiamedknuff]

I'm happy you had a good experience with the Unitarian Universalist church. I'm currently in seminary to become a UU minister.

[@jezebelvibes]

That's so great!!

[@noelmaskii25]

I have always been impressed by your ability to articulate your thoughts so effortlessly and eloquently.❤

[@Postdisclosureworld]

Great to see you back. You're a great philosopher.

[@fangerfry]

I grew up in a UU church! I don’t attend much anymore, but I’m really glad you found the children’s service healing. It is hard for me to even comprehend how people tell children that their inherent being is evil and wrong. I don’t think I’ve ever fully appreciated the fact that I was never threatened with torture - it must be so damaging. Even 20 years ago my church had plenty of atheists just looking for community, but it does depend on the congregation. I find some of their services kind of corny, but they teach a lot of love, peace, and compassion.

[@bearlh40]

I'm curious to know if you've been through O.W.L. and what you think of it.

[@fangerfry]

@@bearlh40 Yes, I attended O.W.L. twice, thanks for asking! My church had a session for 4th graders and another for 7-8th grader. The information was accurate, and my specific teachers did a good job speaking about what can be an uncomfortable topic. I'm sure they had since expanded to include more about gender identity and expression, which I think is a good thing. Now that I'm grown, I believe that refusing to teach your children about sex and relationships is neglect. Uneducated children/people in general are easy to exploit and abuse. I, personally, can point to several moments in my life when I knew what someone did to me/ tried to do was wrong - I may not have if I was kept in the dark about it as a child.

[@makego]

OWL, by the way, is "Our Whole Lives," the UU "sex education" course, if you will. It is a wonderfully holistic approach to adolescent understanding and consideration of sexuality.

[@callumbrasher8048]

This sounds so wholesome, church without shame. It reminds me of my Christian background where everyone at church and all the church relationships felt inauthentic like we didn't really connect because we liked each other's company or wanted to be around each other though more because we're pressured to connect in that environment.

[@jahbloomie]

You’ve been to a UU church once and you’re already having coffee talks. You’re a natural. But seriously, I found a spiritual home among UUs for over 15 years. I’ve incorporated new threads in my spiritual tapestry, and I can only weave so many threads at a time. Congratulations. I will always carry my happy memories and continue my fellowship as much as possible. My first one was on Easter. I wept.

[@coralaub566]

So happy you are finding where you belong. I started going to my local Unitarian university church and have truly enjoyed it and the messages it’s shared. You got this!

[@brwa5176]

Thanks!

[@jezebelvibes]

Thank you so much friend!

[@Tealford1]

All along, I have thought that you would like UU. I am also UU. Happy that you have found a suitable community. Now, you can have "church" and also be yourself. 💞

[@thunderbird3694]

Thanks for the feedback Kristi. We have several Unitarian Universalist assemblies in my area and I have been to one of them recently to hear an atheist speaker which was sponsored by local Humanist community. At 70 years of age and having spent a lifetime studying scriptures and attending Evangelical, Fundamentalist or Pentecostal churches, I have had no interest in attending any services of any kind since deconverting only recently. After listening to your experience attending services at a Unitarian Universalist church I may take a closer look, but at the moment I still have no burning desire.

[@katmarrs7054]

That's amazing for you. I resonate with the healing of the inner child aspect of it. I didn't even know about this kind of church and there is one near me too!. I live in a conservative southern town in Florida and most people here are narrow, ignorant and hateful regarding anyone who isn't from here, a Christian and/or cis straight. I would love to check this out in my area to restore some faith I have in this town that I really do love.

[@cherylmcgilvery1632]

I love my UU community in Yarmouth, Maine! So glad you're giving it a try.

[@darkur13]

I think community is a huge part about why religion (and Christianity in particular here in the USA) is still a big part of a lot of people’s lives. That’s also why the gay bar/nightclub world is such a big part of the LGBT community. Yes the party scene and alcohol and fun play a role in attracting people but I would argue it’s more about community than the never ending party. I worked in that world for over a decade and over and over again I found people searching (and often finding) that community and place to belong that they were looking for. Also, the gay bars I worked in did more for community service and charity than the huge Pentecostal Christian church I was a part of growing up in. Community and relationships matter.

[@paulgerkin2851]

I encourage people [beginning with myself ] to create positive energy starting in their own communities ! Communicate , & when disagreements come along , handle with love & respect .

[@johnmcvicker6728]

Churches do for themselves. Hiring friends, family and those who commit to putting some of that money back in. A bit of a pyramid scheme. This video has me looking at UU churches in my area. 8 years and more being a dedicated volunteer at my mid sized quasi-Evangelical. I think the few things I have read about UU are more of what my soul needs.

[@TimothyIThink-nb1qy]

Where I come from churches are definitely one of the most readily available options for social connections. Most people are at least casually connected to one of the local churches, though they might not be seriously involved or even attend regularly.

[@davidkoontz9265]

darkur13 has a great point. For those that remember the TV sitcom Cheers, the theme song says, "where everybody knows your name!" Kristi, this is a step you needed to take just for that reason. UU adheres to the Jefferson Bible, where Thomas Jefferson performed a cut and paste, only retaining the parts he liked or believed. Refer to Leviticus 17:11 for an explanation regarding blood. I attended a Methodist church that also had a revulsion to the use of blood. However, Jesus' sacrifice assures that blood is no longer needed for the expiation from our sins (known or unknown). Since Jesus is eternal so is His blood and thus was a fulfillment of the penalty of the Law - forever. We may not like it or understand it, so I'll refer you to Isaiah 55:8-11. I try to serve a merciful God. The horizontal bar of the cross is for us to embrace and love all, even our enemies. The vertical bar of the cross is for us to Glorify the one who gives us the gift of life. I'm trying not to preach - just to point. I (try to) judge no one (but we all have our biases and prejudices). I pray that this will help you on your journey.

[@melissadawncoaching]

Your videos are my thoughts out loud. Thank you for your messages!

[@spklyunicorn]

I have visited a Unitarian church several times and have thoroughly enjoyed their love, acceptance, and community. Pure love!! My twin is a multi-faith ordained reverend and has deeply influenced my focus on the love of God, rather than the judgement and sin stuff. I am so glad you have found a place you feel welcomed and loved. Hugging you with my heart!!

[@Learningtowakeup]

Wow I so needed to hear this today. Thank you so much for this video.

[@capwitch25]

Well I am happy for you. Continue on this journey and I truly think this was what Church meant to be, but it got corrupted along the way. You have been a major insight into Christianity and how they believe in things. I have found you very insightful and continue upon your journey, but you're one many helpful ones to help me understand my own spirituality.

[@linus4d1]

I am very glad for you exploring your spirituality. It is very healthy to have this connection to a community in these dark days. Love and acceptance is so healing.

[@kevenspargo6829]

Thank you for this encouragement! We have been talking about checking out our local UU church. I’m happy to hear you experienced UU as a place where folks can find community and even help heal the inner child.

[@somethingoranother1793]

Thank you for making this video! I've never heard of UU churches and am now excited to check out the ones in my area!

[@yadaydada123]

I attended the UU Church in Mt Pleasant, MI and it was a wonderful, welcoming community. If I still lived there, I would still be going. I highly would recommend the UU community.

[@RavenDarkXO]

Omg!!! This is exactly what i wanted to hear.. this type of community would be helpful for someone like me 😸

[@ChristopherAune]

Perfect timing. Thanks!

[@jrti001]

Thank you for sharing this. I've been thinking about visiting a local Unitarian church, now onto action. May the new year bring you many interesting new experiences that will enhance your life and your community.

[@katwitanruna]

The first time I went to a UU service, my daughter came running out of Religious Education going „we celebrated Buddha‘s birthday!“. The one I went to also had a CUUPs group which celebrated the high holy days.

[@easterncoyote1]

Thank you Kristi. I really appreciate all the time and energy you put into making these heartfelt videos. This one felt especially important and inspiring to me, as I tend to be pretty alone and isolated. I think this was just what I needed to hear. Thank you ❤

[@jezebelvibes]

I hope you find a solid community that supports and accepts you ♥️

[@Royce_Rollz3]

After deconstructing, I still attended church services for a while because it was fulfilling a sense of community in my life. Now, I no longer go because it’s too painful to look back. The UU church sounds like a nice way to gain back a community without being re-traumatized. Kristi, I’m very glad you found something like this that you can enjoy! I might try going to one myself someday.

[@paulstoakes466]

So good to see you happy and fizzing with joy.

[@BillOptional]

Excellent choice! Congrats on 78K subscriptions , so enjoying the way you share your journey.

[@jezebelvibes]

😊♥️

[@MikeGathercole]

Thank you for this. What you described is exactly what I am looking for, to be part of a community. I am determined to stop isolating so much.

[@mortenrevheim3224]

According to facebook - 16 years ago today I posted "I went to church, and I liked it"🤯🤯🤯 Thank you so much for all you do, Kristi! Your account has really helped me, and is one of my OG favourite ex-christian/atheist-accounts🙏

[@jezebelvibes]

😊♥️

[@merarifreethought]

I love this message and agree 100%. We need to reinvest our time and energy into connecting with others in community and in solidarity with one another. Now I want to visit my local UU church too.

[@randybaker6042]

People have different needs, but simply being around people who want to be kind and help others get through what can be this very difficult life is great for those who share that desire. Happy for anyone who finds a place with people who share that mindset.

[@Embrace.The.Absurd]

This was excellent!! I’ve been riding the fence about attending a Unitarian Universalist church for community; and now I’m encouraged and excited to try it!! Thank you so very much for sharing yourself and journey so freely; I greatly appreciate it and you!!

[@paulgerkin2851]

Glad you enjoyed it . I believe it's important right now to grow , cultivate , & support positive communities all over this country . Caring about each other & supporting freedom . ♥

[@susanbuchser418]

You are amazing, thank you. This is exactly the thoughts that go through your mind when you leave Christianity and move to Unitarian. Universalist, congratulations, this is beautiful. Thank you so much

[@riseofdarkleela]

I found the most supportive and inspiring people by following my interests of learning how to write music on KZbin and now teaching other people how to make music and performing. Our community recently lost a member in a fire and even people who don’t get along came together with zero overhead fundraisers to help his wife with money and clothes and 24/7 global emotional support. I’m happy for anyone who finds a loving tribe and I wish it for anyone who wants it. Yay Kristi for knowing what you need and reaching out for it in an integral way. Previously thought of UU as not enough god when I was in my woo phase but I bet it would be more appealing now.

[@Colddirector]

I've always wanted to learn to make music but always ended up bouncing off it because I get intimidated by software like FL studio. Do you have any suggestions/beginner friendly online communities? I want to try and make this year one where I can make actual headway into producing some music, albeit as a hobby.

[@booksie1]

This is well timed. Thank you. I was thinking of going to a quavers meeting and will locate my local Universalists church too

[@ElectrikMe]

Never heard of that church before but it sounds really non-judgy and accepting of everyone! Thank you for sharing your personal journey wirh us, Kristi! Wishing you and your subscribers a very happy and healthy 2025!❤🎉

[@richardfoster2895]

Glad to hear you found the UU church. I think you'll love becoming a member.

[@DigitalXD-gi7ig]

I feel so shocked right now a church that is humanitarian, loving, accepting if feel like im listen to a story of a utopia not on this earth I NEED TO GO THERE ASAP

[@bennorman1093]

Thanks for the video. I have never heard of this Unitarian Universalist church before and looked them up. It turns out that there is one about an hour drive away (Kingston ON, which is too far for me), but I'm glad that there is one nearby.

[@Lordofthefliess]

Good lord you worried the hell out of me. Glad to hear you found something good!

[@jezebelvibes]

🫢 sorry

[@gabbyyeargain]

Kristi! I am SO HAPPY for you that you had such a good experience! And I love that this is more universalist rather than traditional Christian.

[@jezebelvibes]

It was wonderful! And it isn't christian at all. It's nice to be in a church setting without religion 😊

[@CityMvp]

Happy New Year. First, community is important and you owe no apology; even if in some universe, you returned to “church”. Religiosity in any form is controlling; and you have the right and capacity to change your mind with new information. Good on you! Enjoy the journey. Thank you for your “service”.😊

[@kathleenrussell5782]

Welcome to UU! Such a great community!

[@BobbyFriston]

"When you have no motive you are free to observe your conditioning." J. Krishnamurti

[@peterconlon8234]

So cool you continue to forge your own path, are willing to take risks: I gotta believe it's a sign of, not just healing...but wanting to heal...but, hopefully, doing so on your terms. Please make sure that, it all being on your terms, is one the guide posts to any move forward and you'll be ok.

[@Swisschoc2025]

Thank you for mentioning Unitarian Church.

[@Eyesopeningheartrealigning]

Brilliant post! Thank you ❤ Great advice 😅

[@dashitall666]

So glad you are exploring UU Church. I left Christianity at age 55 and checked out a Unitarian Church a few years later and joined 6 years ago and love the community.

[@Queenread82]

It’s great to hear from you Kristi, I am so glad you are doing well!

[@Aclaclacl622]

Your story mirrors mine. After 40 years in the Christian church and leaving it I found a home and community in the Unitarian Universalist church. There is no judgement at my UU congregation. Only acceptace.

[@jezebelvibes]

I love that ♥️ I'm sure they are all different, and there are likely bad apples. But I'm glad we both found communities in the UU church! It's certainly a really special place to be

[@Casperrenee228]

You sound & look so happy! So happy for you. Hope all works out for you! ❤❤❤

[@pdrivest57]

Hi Kristi. This is an interesting development in your journey, but the loss of community and traditions are some of the greatest losses we suffer when we leave the church. I'm happy you are potentially finding them at UUC. You and Brit Hartley are my two favorite youtube content producers. She has spoken mucb about the need for use to find ways to recreate both in our own lives, families and post-christian society. I could write much more on that, but I'll just say I'm happy for you and thank you for sharing this.

[@jezebelvibes]

Thank you! Community is such an important part of healing ♥️

[@jasonguard9879]

I’ve been visiting UU churches since 97 (and was raised by UU parents) and finally joined one a few months ago. Welcome!

[@Danthedane100]

I went to my old church Christmas eve...very hard to smomach the guilt tripping message 😮

[@visaman]

I thought Christmas services were all about the Baby Jesus being born in a manger and singing Ave Maria? What would be the guilt trip portion of the service?

[@max.m3707]

Let me guess the guilt trip was when the pastor spoke about Jesus' later life and when He gave up His life on the cross because he does not remain in the manger but he grew up and carried out His ministry to help us, Jesus healed the sick, restored the sight of the blind & even resurrected the dead. ““Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God ; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; …And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” ‭‭John‬ ‭14‬:‭1‬-‭3‬ ‭ what I don't understand is why people disagree with the christian church. was there an abuse of power, did they have a bad experience, can you elaborate on why you stopped believing? Why don’t people want to go to heaven?

[@Danthedane100]

@@max.m3707 thank you for the response... its a mixture with many things..the biggest one is that Jesus came to save us: but save us from what? save us from an angry God who is willing to send the very people he created to hell forever. The very thing that he is saving people from is himself if we do not follow his way. Secondly, we are not allowed to have our own opinion about anything. Having different opinions is the very foundation for a healthy society, but there is no room for that with The bible. I could go on and on for a very long time... but i think Kristi in her videos explain very simply all the issues with the faith

[@teddynoteddie6826]

I want Christmas presents. It doesn’t mean Santa Claus is real. Christianity fails on its claims. It doesn’t have to be that someone failed somehow. P.s. I was a fully devoted Christian from age 19-49.

[@wolf2966]

@@max.m3707because there’s no good reason to believe any of that stuff existed or ever happened also it seems the ticket into heaven is essentially be a dick to anyone who does agree with your lifestyle especially when it’s not hurting anyone else and that this unconditional god seems to have conditions so why should I believe or want to believe in I’ll say it kindly a stretchy god that has never presented itself has done questionable and evil things and create people for things it already knows it’s going to punish them for before it even happens doesn’t sound like a god worth loving or worshipping and honestly not worth believing otherwise you’d go through life miserable knowing the full context if you didn’t want to remain ignorant on it’s terms and conditions then there’s the human side which is worse cause there is proof of that and that the human race committed many atrocities under the name of that god but today they just want to ignore those actions even when they still happen and now the Christian churches are trying to rewrite history or tell only there sides of it and leave out any details that would make them look bad all in all there’s many good reasons not to believe in this god and to stay away from the Christian church with its history of hostility and predatory behavior both physically and emotionally

[@robertpearson5410]

I'm glad it was enjoyable for you. When I grew up in the church, I never really fit in, and I was always uncomfortable in any church environment. I don't really have any fond memories and have only one friend I've kept from that entire time in my life. I've been in a church several times for weddings, but never a service, because even the weddings brought back bad memories. We all have different experiences.

[@Ivoryene]

I love my Unitarian church. It's more loving than the Christian church

[@BriW3]

Hey I also found a church I liked recently and might be a member there soon. I’m an agnostic theist right now and I’m happy that this is working out for you too

[@robertsims6718]

I'm happy for you 😊, Kristi

[@That1coolteacher1206]

Thanks for sharing! You just inspired me to at least consider finding a like minded community! ❤

[@jezebelvibes]

That was my goal! 😁 wishing you the best in finding your community!

[@loisprew8820]

UU here! Welcome! You don’t even need to be Christian. You can be atheist. We do our best to be open minded, kind, and mature.

[@freddyfazbear6350]

I like the way you speak simply (easy to understand for a non native English speaker) Sending love from Russia🧡

[@pcoleman1971]

Thank you for posting this. I have recently been going through a similar process. I have been an atheist for decades, but I do miss the sense of community. In Canada, I have the benefit of progressive Christian churches which are affirming of the LGBTQ+, women's rights, etc. So, I attended a service of the United Church of Canada. It felt weird because I don't ultimately believe in God, but the people were welcoming.

[@MerchantOfClicks]

Women’s rights are a social construct. They don’t actually exist.

[@BramptonAnglican]

Canadian here also. Love the united church of Canada. I’m Anglican myself

[@JaniceinOR]

If you want to try church community without God baked in, there are 41 UU communities in Canada, findable through the Canadian Unitarian Council. Most UU communities I am familiar with are very affirming of LGBTQ+ (though some may need more education on trans issues), and definitely women's rights.

[@pcoleman1971]

@BramptonAnglican I follow Rev Ed Trevors, an Anglican pastor online.

[@pcoleman1971]

@BramptonAnglican if you would like to read more about my experience, I wrote a Substack article. I use my name on Substack as well Unfortunately, KZbin won't allow me to provide a link.

[@davery07]

This was actually and very informative video you shared, at least for me. I've listened to you a number of times as I've come from a similar story relating to church and Christianity specifically and find some similarities to our stories. Thanks for the reminder about community, it's so true but can be difficult to find sometimes. Thanks. :)

[@brentwalker8596]

I went to the local UU church as a kid. I've always been an atheist but UU has always been very embracing of everyone. There is still a large chart hanging on the wall of the dining hall that shows famous UU people in history. Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and Benjamin Franklin were involved in the Unitarian church, with its precepts informing some of their political stances.

[@nutherefurlong]

Super happy you had that healing moment. My experience with that particular group was brief, and at the time I was coming at it from a different angle, often feeling that, in retrospect, the relatively mild groups I did see, including them, felt strange to me; people acted in a way that felt like there was an altered, affected behavior that made me uneasy. I guess in hindsight it was people trying to be more than what their day-to-day demanded of them, to take on a different role, whether for a little while or to recharge their batteries to try and be that way outside. I appreciate what they and others I saw were trying to do more now, and yeah, there are a lot of expressions of faith and purpose that aren't all about maximizing cognitive dissonance

[@joancromwell145]

For years during my deconstruction the idea of going to church or hearing Christian messages on TV or online just pissed me off. But, in the past year, I have had several reasons to go to church for special occasions such weddings, funerals, concerts, etc and actually found it healing. I no longer feel like it can hurt me. I don't feel like I belong there. But, I can enjoy the hymns that feel nostalgic to me. It feels good to be done with the hurt of it all.

[@jezebelvibes]

I love this! That's how you know you've found peace and healing 😊♥️

[@dogwalker666]

I still love the architecture, We have lots of churches and even a couple of Cathedrals locally some dating back to the 12th century, We also have a Roman temple that dates back before christianity, All beautiful places.

[@kathleenrussell5782]

When i went to a meber class at UU, we were asked "what brings you to UU". Iit blew my mind. I realized that my previous perspective was based on a sense of guilt and fear. This was so freeing.

[@JosephMage]

I love the UU congregations. Very welcoming and open community from my experiences.

[@sarahbanks7376]

I haven't joined UU but a few years ago joined a local committee that organises an annual community festival. I've met the kindest, most generous, talented people and it's lovely to give something back.

[@Mr.PeabodySkeptic]

I got married at 19 in a Unitarian church. I'm an atheist, my now ex-wife was wiccan/spiritualist.

[@Zictomorph]

I visited a UUC over the break too! Good people. And it really gives me hope about finding spiritual community without blind faith.

[@richardwilliamson1639]

My wife and I go to the UU Church just as a way of socializing with people from other backrounds, races or religions. We have Jews and gentiles, former catholics and atheists. We have a lot of gay people who tried to fit in to other religions. We worship nothing. I don't believe Jesus even existed. We believe in promoting science and art. We study other religions and philosophies.. We invite leaders and volunteers to tell us what they need, and we raise money for them. It's just a place and time to be nice to each other. I wish you well and hope you find your circle of good will, Kristi. Life looks good on you!

[@LUNO9517]

Your videos were the first to guide me on my deconstruction journey, and the title of this video really shocked me! 😂

[@montanahelton1272]

I’ve been wanting to try a Unitarian church for years…still haven’t. I’m definitely going to now. Thank you for this ❤

[@jezebelvibes]

Give it a shot! Let me know how it goes!

[@JaniceinOR]

There is a lot of variety across UU churches. If you find one through the UUA website, you can look at the website for the individual UU church and see whether it looks like a good fit for you. Some UU churches still include songs about Jesus, for example, while others may never mention God or anything supernatural.

[@montanahelton1272]

@@jezebelvibesI will let you know! I have a family and I feel it would be good to get connected with a community of likeminded people. Also in a totally new state where I know no one but my coworkers. Excited for a chance to connect a little more ❤

[@Lacedography]

I was very curious about UU churches back when I was still going to a church occasionally. I don’t know of one in my area or I would honestly look into one. I’m glad you had a positive experience! I understand that search for community that would lead you to that. I live in a rural area and it’s honestly almost like a form of isolationism cutting ties with churches in small towns.

[@andriebester]

Being very introverted, I never felt a longing for community in a spiritual sense after leaving Christianity. I found spiritual fulfilment in reading natural sciences. I do, however, sometimes feel a need to become involved in social outreach to the needy. But this need stems more from the desire to practically demonstrate to others that morality and social responsibility are not the exclusive terrain of Christianity. We can be moral and good simply because we choose to be, not because we subscribe to some or other religious ideology.

[@virtualmanny]

Hobby/values-based communities are great! Examples can be pickleball groups, support groups, board game groups, etc. Great video.

[@lunala_plays0]

thx for sharing Unitarian Universalism im insisted in it now seems nice

[@davidspencer2161]

Intelligent, kind, insightful, constructive, beautiful!!! 🙏❤️😌

[@wolftitan]

As an ex-catholic, now Atheist, I will never enter anything designated a church again unless I have to. (Weddings and Funerals Only)

[@jezebelvibes]

That's perfectly fine. You're not obligated to do anything you don't want to do. I just encourage everyone to find a community that suits them.

[@wolftitan]

@jezebelvibes Thank you. Communities come in different forms. Hey, even conventions for your favorite things can be that community. And you do great work, and once again, thank you for it.

[@DarkstrifeQueen-v8v]

I wonder if these churches are witch friendly. I’ve been practicing the Craft and had to hide it in the broom closet for way too long and had to hide my altar in a place outside my condo where my conservative catholic parents can’t find it and only I know where it is, and I’d rather go to a church like this than be dragged to my parents church. I’m honestly at a crossroads with my parents so called “god”, and I’m blessed to have found a UU church near me in the Bible Belt.

[@wolftitan]

@ It truly is amazing what things humans still believe in isn't it. Be it religions, cults, pagans, or witches. I ask myself all the time, "When will humans grow up?" But they won't they never will. They always need that paranormal security blanket.

[@Aclaclacl622]

@@DarkstrifeQueen-v8v They are witch friendly! My congregation celebrates earth-centered spirituality and Pagan traditions.

[@lindareese4579]

Thank you for sharing sharing this wonderful information with us ❤

[@infidelcastro5129]

I’m no expert, but it seems to me that UU is kind of like when a recovering alcoholic finds solace in non-alcoholic beer because it fills that habitual void without providing the dangerous/poisonous ingredient.

[@tylercobb1993]

Good way to describe it :)

[@areuaware6842]

Doesn't the word catholic mean universal? Seems they tricked you again.

[@casper-z9rkls6gl]

@@areuaware6842 You need to read the owner's manual go for a test drive.