Thoughtful

[close] A place where the Family can get together to read and discuss books at their own pace. Books will be chosen at random by family members, and each can choose to join in or watch from the sidelines.

[close] Many people happily make their way through the stages of spiritual development within a faith tradition until one day they hit a question or life situation that challenges everything they believe. For Christians this is often one of the following: the scale of pain and suffering in the world; the contradictions in the Bible and biblical criticism; evolution and science; the role of women in the church; or some other crisis of faith. Most of us admit the limitation of our tradition and either try to find a way to reconcile our questions with our faith, or we jettison our faith all together. We look to books for solace. We find answers and want to share them. This is a place for us to do just that, to share the books that have helped us move beyond our limited faith perspective into a wider view of the world. This is not a forum for apologetics, debates over theological chestnuts, or evangelism. If you are trying to convince us that your way is the best or only way, you are not welcome here. This is a place of tolerance and sharing where everyone can discuss what they have learned during and after their crisis of faith.

[close] ...June 27, 2011 to July 27, 2011...

[close] Welcome, pilgrim. This is a space for readers on their own path — moving at different speeds, picking up different stories, and stopping to share what they’ve found along the way. There’s no set pace here. Some will read quickly, some slowly, some will wander between books. It doesn’t matter. The point isn’t to keep up — it’s to explore. Think of it less like a structured club, and more like a shared journey. Each month we’ll choose a book, but you’re free to join in whenever you like — whether you’ve read a page or the whole thing. Along the way, you might find a new favourite book. Or just a few people who saw the same story a completely different way. How it works • A book is chosen each month • You can join the discussion at any point • No need to finish — or even start — the book • Side paths (other books, ideas, recommendations) are always welcome