Religion vs. sorority/frat

[SKEEphistAKAte]

Originally posted by NewBee
I wish everyone peace and blessings regardless if I don't see things exactly as you do. Everyone's personal walk in their spirituality is there own at the end of the day. Everyone doesn't believe that the Bible is the infallible word of truth and even those who do believe might not do everything in the bible, including me. Just because people have different views does not mean we can't coexist peacefully.

I agree

[teena]

Explains alot

[NewBee]

Originally posted by teena
Explains alot

what do you mean?

[AKA_Monet]

Originally posted by NewBee
^^^^ You sound as if Jesus is not welcomed here. I know or hope thats not what you mean, but thats how you sound. No one is even preaching the gospel, although if they were, what is the harm in that, especially here, with an organization that you all say was founded on Christian principles that uses Christians books in its rituals according to other posters on this board. The only thing people did was answer the question on why some Christians, whether greek or non-greek, feel as if greek life wasn't for them. Why does that hit so many chords? It would be different if people were starting anti-greek threads saying all greeks are evil and I know Minister Fred Hatchett sp? hit a few nerves but no one did that, they just gave scriptures. Whats so bad in that??? I understand you all have zeal for your organizations, whats wrong with people having zeal for Christ?

Since you are quoting chapter and verse on me, then I will answer...

Yes, I made a vow to refrain from ill will toward the members of my Sorority. And yes, I pledged by heart, mind and strength to be supreme in service... And yes, I see no connection on my interference from God... Because, if God wanted to change it for me, guess what will happen??? And God has gotten a hold of me quite a few times and had to put me in places of pentinence as punishment for my sins... But joining my Sorority was not a punishment.. It was a chance for me to use my Sorority as a conduit to express my true potential in the manner that Christ has asked me to do...

Hey, some folks can take my statements how they want them do. I really have yet to care... I know that some of things I have done in service under the banner of my Sorority could NEVER be done in the Church...

Such as HIV/AIDS ministry, outreach and education to teens and young adults...

And the stats are there about how the African American church has done a POOR job toward those who suffer from this devestating disease in the United States...

So much for being all "Christian like" as folks like to profess and witness their faith of...

[teena]

Originally posted by SKEEphistAKAte

I don't twist the scriptures and read extra stuff into them like you and (most other christians) do.

Wow! You know most Christians?
Im impressed.

[NewBee]

Originally posted by AKA_Monet
Since you are quoting chapter and verse on me, then I will answer...

Yes, I made a vow to refrain from ill will toward the members of my Sorority. And yes, I pledged by heart, mind and strength to be supreme in service... And yes, I see no connection on my interference from God... Because, if God wanted to change it for me, guess what will happen??? And God has gotten a hold of me quite a few times and had to put me in places of pentinence as punishment for my sins... But joining my Sorority was not a punishment.. It was a chance for me to use my Sorority as a conduit to express my true potential in the manner that Christ has asked me to do...

Hey, some folks can take my statements how they want them do. I really have yet to care... I know that some of things I have done in service under the banner of my Sorority could NEVER be done in the Church...

Such as HIV/AIDS ministry, outreach and education to teens and young adults...

And the stats are there about how the African American church has done a POOR job toward those who suffer from this devestating disease in the United States...

So much for being all "Christian like" as folks like to profess and witness their faith of...

You could do those things at a Church but like you said who cares. You are doing service as you feel convicted too. I hope that all the professing Christians endeaver to be Christ-like. Be blessed.

[SKEEphistAKAte]

Originally posted by teena
Im impressed.

I'm sure.

[RedefinedDiva]

NewBee, when did you stop being interested in becoming a Greek? What changed your mind?

StrongBeauty & NewBee, do you only object to BGLOs or does your displeasure lie will ALL GLOs?




*Printed largely since my questions always seem to be overlooked....*

[NewBee]

Originally posted by RedefinedDiva
NewBee, when did you stop being interested in becoming a Greek? What changed your mind?

StrongBeauty & NewBee, do you only object to BGLOs or does your displeasure lie will ALL GLOs?




*Printed largely since my questions always seem to be overlooked....*

I answered 2 out of 3 questions, thats not bad. I stopped being interested in becoming a greek in 2002, after extensive research in not only the NPHC orgs, but the NPC sororities and some service and other locals as well. As my first post on this topic stated, one of the reasons is because of the unequally yoked verse. Another reason was finding out that most greek organizations black, white, or in between have roots in masonry, which I was already "weary" of, if nothing else than just because of lack of knowledge. (Thats a whole different topic but suffice to say being an OES is not for me either, and you have to be a believer to join...) The only thing I can say is that is how I felt GOD dealt with me through prayer and seeking His will for my life. I was convicted not to pursue membership.

I just want to say that I dont "object" to any greek organizations or find displeasure in them as you put it. I wouldn't be on here if I didn't find some type of entertainment from them. How I apply the scriptures however to my life means that its not for me and this would apply to all greek organizations that allow non-christians, not just BGLOs. It doesn't mean that I don't respect what they do for the community, or that I think that they are hellbound. I feel that you can learn a lot from people with veiws different than your own, and I can say that occasionally when I pick up my GreekChat addiction from time to time, I always learn something new, whether it be the latest celebrity news, or suggestions on styling natural hair.

[Strongbeauty]

Originally posted by AKA_Monet
No one is persecuting you. I know I can only speak for myself and what my thinking about the matter is. I just do not understand why you are here telling my Sorors, sisterfriends, fellow greeks and visitors this information.

And what information would that be? The a direct answer to a question? Usually when someone is asked a question, the person asking expects an answer... thus information will be shared. No one is persecuting me? I have been called names, spoken to in rude and sarcastic tones, been asked why am I here as if I am not welcomed and insulted. If that is not persecution then what is?


How are you checking this information out? By going to the International HQ websites and seeing what has recently been posted for membership requirements? You call yourself intelligently minded, so my question to you is, do you think that seeking information in the manner you are stating makes you the foremost authority?

Again with the assumptions (dare I say judgments ) that I believe I am the foremost authority on something? I have looked at the International websites and I have not found the requirement that one MUST be Christian in order to be a member of any org. That is not knowledge of an expert or authority, that is something is pretty well advertised. Now there may be certain chapters who choose to have this limitation, but are you going sit here and tell me that on the International level this is untrue?


No, I have asked you direct question and you quote me something that comes right out of some literature you carry on yourself... Which to me sounds like again you have done very little research and investigation on your active choice to pursue your religion and beliefs. I don't know, nor do I care, really... But, to have a legitimate discussion, I want to know WHY YOU FEEL that Christians ought not belong to BGLOs? Because that is how you are coming off in here on the AKA Ave...

I said in my first post that this was something I was dealing with and was unsure. The answer to why I feel there may be a conflict has been answered time and time again through scriptures as I have said that I believe that the Bible is the infalliable Word and is not to be compromised. I did not quote literature by the way... the manner in which I speak is simply that. I was teased for it growing up, tried to change to please others who thought that I sounded like a book, but in the end, it got me scholarships and a degree so what's really good?


Yeah, right, I have always stated I am a "unbeliever"... Like I have spoken to numerous Christians and other religious groups and questioned their systems of faith... Yeah, I like to do that... That's me alright... You've definitely got me pegged!!! Wow, thanks for the insight into my soul...

Judgemental are we??? Perhaps???

Maybe you need to use the search function on GC and review my posts... I don't think I recall ever renouncing my Christian beliefs or professing another faith... Maybe I have and didn't realize it or I just don't come up under the close scrutiny of following under your dictates and grand design how Christians ought to be... I apologize of falling short of your glory...


First off, I don't even accept Glory for being able to pay my rent. Secondly, I never called anyone on here a non-believer or unbeliever (whichever you prefer). Someone asked why I was on here talking to unbelievers. I know the person was trying to be sarcastic but then I have the right to be sarcastic back. SO, therefore we can just squash that whole conversation because I was giving a sarcastic response to another sarcastic response. In my last post I think I covered the fact that I understand the purpose of this site. In case I didn't here is another "quote" from the literature that I carry (i.e. my brain). I understand that Greekchat is an open forum designed for those who are Greek, Greek aspirants and others who may have a concern with Greek life. While the topics discussed may not entirely be limited to Greek life, many are. Many topics are of a fun, light-hearted nature but some, such as this one (IMO) are not. While this is an open forum, people are expected to be respectful (which after reading several posts, I am not too sure I can say that's necessarily the case). Greek aspirants are allowed, but are not to ask questions specifcially relating to membership into their prespective organizations. That is, in summary, my understanding of Greekchat.


Now this is the most intelligible statements on your whole cathartic free flowing of ideas. These statements I can use and discuss.

I disagree that the ONLY responsibilty for Christians is to spread the gospel across the lands and to speak to non-believers. I read the Bible differently from you. I think that taking right action, with right hearts and minds, speaks volumes from where I stand without saying a word. For me the "tongue is a powerful weapon..." Folks need to be mindful with what they say to each other... What does Proverbs say about a "wiseman" and "speech..."--like on several different verses... And I try to live my life like that...

Please point out to me where I said that spreading the gospel was the only responsibility of a Christian. Now while I do believe that it is a huge part, Christianity is so much bigger than that. Actions are important, but good deeds do not get you into heaven (Matthew 7:22-24). The tongue does hold the power of life and death so the way we speak is important. I am not trying to be rude but it's not like people have been exactly warm towards me during this thread... it reminds me of the saying that when you point one finger at someone else you have three pointing back at yourself. People have said that I have been rude, judgmental, know-it-all, etc, but fail to provide a real example of when I have done that other than to say that my posts reads like that of an authority figure... or someone who wants to be. So while I may not be on the Greeks level so to speak,but I am still a person and if you truly (not you specifically) believe that words are powerful, then why not let the God that you so dearly cling to guide yours?


Isn't it interesting that there are many ways to come to God... Maybe God designed it that way? One man's visit is another man's journey? I don't know, but I find it interesting... It is my understanding that what worked oneway for one man may not necessarily work that way for another man... God knows His flock... Does that mean everybody else MUST know that grand Design? I reserve my "jugdment" to God... Something about surrendering the will, I think?

The only I know for sure to get to the Father is through the Son. That is just what I was taught, but we won't know until the rapture if this was true or false I suppose.


I know I can only speak for my Sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. The question you ask is about ritual. What is ritual? How are rituals decided? Who stated they will become rituals versus one that will not...

With that being said, I can say with confidence and my Sorors will be fine with this information I am sharing with you and everyone else, that there are entire books of the Christian Bible that are a strong part of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Which ones, you may ask... Well, do your research outside of the internet or maybe God will give it you if you pray and ask...

I didn't really expect anyone to answer (although the question was not solely for members of Alpha Kappa Alpha (just another observation during my brief time here on Greekchat... members of orgs can view and post on other org's pages). To my knowledge, AKA is not the only one that states it's founded on Christian principles. That would be like the American public expecting Dubba W to tell us where the weapons of mass destruction are located.

[Strongbeauty]

Originally posted by RedefinedDiva
NewBee, when did you stop being interested in becoming a Greek? What changed your mind?

StrongBeauty & NewBee, do you only object to BGLOs or does your displeasure lie will ALL GLOs?




*Printed largely since my questions always seem to be overlooked....*

I have answered your first question already. Secondly, I do not have an issue with ALL GLOs because there are Christian GLOs and professional GLOs. I also do not necessarily take issues with those that do not claim a faith base. If an org claims to be founded on or based on certain principles, then the expectation is that they will keep inline with those principles. You can't have it both ways (James 1:8- "A double minded man is unstable in all his ways"). The only displeasure I have with the Greek system as a whole is hazing.

[Drolefille]

Originally posted by Strongbeauty
I have answered your first question already. Secondly, I do not have an issue with ALL GLOs because there are Christian GLOs and professional GLOs. I also do not necessarily take issues with those that do not claim a faith base. If an org claims to be founded on or based on certain principles, then the expectation is that they will keep inline with those principles. You can't have it both ways (James 1:8- "A double minded man is unstable in all his ways"). The only displeasure I have with the Greek system as a whole is hazing.

Just as a question, how do you know what sort of values a GLO professes if you are not a part of it. You would not know what values my GLO professes as you have not been pledged or initiated into it.

You my be preemptively judging (and we all know what the bible says about judging) GLOs without joining them.

ETA: this isn't only directed to you but to anyone who feels this way.

[Rain Man]

Originally posted by Drolefille
Just as a question, how do you know what sort of values a GLO professes if you are not a part of it. You would not know what values my GLO professes as you have not been pledged or initiated into it.

If you were founded on Christian principles, there would be no need with withhold what those principles were. Being initiated should have nothing to do with it. Christianity is for everyone, not just a select few. Stop running behind your org's shield and just tell us. Jesus wasn't secret with what His principles should be, if you are inheriting His principles, neither should you.

Frankly, that was a piss-poor attempt to evade the question. Do better.

You my be preemptively judging (and we all know what the bible says about judging) GLOs without joining them.

ETA: this isn't only directed to you but to anyone who feels this way.

Another "smoke-and-mirrors" word: Judging. What I see happening here is that someone is trying to hold you accountable to follow the Word of God, and no one wants to receive it, so they throw out the word "judging" to avoid the issue.

Accountability is NOT judgment. All that has been happening is that some non-Greek Christians are holding folk here to a higher standard in Christ and the point of contention is that some folk here aren't willing to humble themselves to receive it.

Let's stop playing games and just open ourselves to receive the Word, even if it is not always something we want to hear.

Nobody here is judging anyone.

[Honeykiss1974]

Originally posted by Drolefille
Just as a question, how do you know what sort of values a GLO professes if you are not a part of it. You would not know what values my GLO professes as you have not been pledged or initiated into it.

You my be preemptively judging (and we all know what the bible says about judging) GLOs without joining them.

ETA: this isn't only directed to you but to anyone who feels this way.

I didn't want to jump in this discussion, but this isn't hard (or it may be a sarcastic question, I don't know). So let me understand something.....you would join an organization without A CLUE (even a general one) as to its values or purpose? WHOA! I'm sure you went into rush with a general idea or at least got the impression as to values/beliefs of the houses you went to. I hope so....

Granted as a non-member, a person will not know EVERYTHING, but you can get a good idea from a variety of ways. I mean, granted, I don't know the "ins and outs" of the interworkings of the United Way, but I can make a pretty good judgement based on its website, history, public outreach, etc.

Also, I would like to think that if a person was attempting to join an organization and as they were going through the "process" discovered things that made them uncomfortable (for whatever reason - be it religion or otherwise), they could still walk away....or at least I would. But there are some that are not willing to take that chance - to walk into a situation with serious issues/questions that are left totally unadressed. I can't fault them for that.

[Drolefille]

Originally posted by Honeykiss1974
I didn't want to jump in this discussion, but this isn't hard (or it may be a sarcastic question, I don't know). So let me understand something.....you would join an organization without A CLUE (even a general one) as to its values or purpose? WHOA! I'm sure you went into rush with a general idea or at least got the impression as to values/beliefs of the houses you went to. I hope so....

No, but I also don't have a problem joining an organization that is not Christian based. I have no problem having sisters who aren't Christian. They are family. And just as I wouldn't turn my back on family because of their religion, I wouldn't turn my back on my sorority.

Granted as a non-member, a person will not know EVERYTHING, but you can get a good idea from a variety of ways. I mean, granted, I don't know the "ins and outs" of the interworkings of the United Way, but I can make a pretty good judgement based on its website, history, public outreach, etc.

Also, I would like to think that if a person was attempting to join an organization and as they were going through the "process" discovered things that made them uncomfortable (for whatever reason - be it religion or otherwise), they could still walk away....or at least I would. But there are some that are not willing to take that chance - to walk into a situation with serious issues/questions that are left totally unadressed. I can't fault them for that.

I can't either, but they could ask questions and they would probably get satisfactory answers. Hatchett used to demand that GLOs give HIM a copy of their ritual so that HE could determine if they were ok. Being told that it really was ok wasn't enough. If a PNM or interested party isn't going to be satisfied with the answers given by members of a GLO thats fine, but don't turn around and judge all members of the GLO, and others, because of it.

In short: if we're Christian and in a GLO we're not having a hard time justifying it, it's OK.

/Catholic so some people wouldn't consider me Christian anyway