Chaplain in need of some help...

[ADPiTigergurl]

Originally Posted by Psi U MC Vito

You should probably see if you could find non denominational prayers to use if at all possible. Or possible mix up christian verses with verses from the various faiths of the sisters.

I mean I guess. We really aren't all that diverse: we have CHristians, Jews (they use the Torah, prettys sure its like 36 books of the Old Testament, and girls with no concept of faith or God...I really think in this instance it may be the advisors and not my sisters. I'm not really sure but I talked to the old chaplain and as far as she remebers this issue was never really an issue.

[thetygerlily]

Originally Posted by ADPiTigergurl

We really aren't all that diverse: we have CHristians, Jews (they use the Torah, prettys sure its like 36 books of the Old Testament, and girls with no concept of faith or God.

This comment kind of struck a nerve with me. It sounds like you ARE that diverse- you have Christians, you have Jews, and agnostics and/or athiests. Don't get stuck on pulling from only one or two of those buckets. I am very grateful that my chapter did not include religion in our meetings or ritual because it would have made me quite uncomfortable if it was like that all the time. I respect people of other religions, but unless we are part of a church group or religious org please don't expect me to believe what you do.

I really like some of the comments people have made about using inspirational poems, quotes, or stories. Inspiration doesn't have to be about religion, although it can. If I were a part of your chapter (falling into the third bucket you list), I would be very happy to hear a rotation of sources. Sure, throw in biblical references here and there- a good number of your chapter identifies with it, and if you translate it for me (as someone else mentioned) to show how it's relevant to the chapter then I'm good with it. Just make sure you supplement with others so you reach everyone and focus on the real goal you're there- fostering a fantastic sisterhood.

I hope that wasn't too rantish, and if it was I appologize. I just want you to hear the perspective of someone who falls in your third bucket, someone who may not necessarily speak up at meetings but would appreciate being considered as well.

[APhiAnna]

I think people's issue is likely the fact that the religious quotes are solely from the Bible. If you mixed in quotes from Buddhist sutras, the Torah, the Hindu Vedas, etc. I doubt anybody would have a problem with the Christian verses. There would be a wide enough mix that it would be clear sisters were not expected to subscribe to a specific religion (or any at all!). And if you are morally opposed to the inclusion of inspirational quotes from other faiths...well, that is likely how the Jewish and atheist/agnostic sisters feel about the Christian verses!

I do think that religious quotes (as well as to whoever suggested Jack Handy!) are miles above the standard, overused and often saccharine sorority quotes as long as they are from various different religions. And mix it up too...Oscar Wilde, Bob Dylan, Maya Angelou, Disney quotes...whatever works!

[And if this makes any difference, I am a Christian and I still think all religions should be included unless you are a Christian sorority.]