I've been looking for a roommate for a while. But I don't know how to ask people I meet from the start if they are Christians or not. I live in Mexico, and a lot people believe in saints, and that's what I want to avoid. My best friend, and old roommate is an atheist, he's not Christian, but at least I don't have to hear him talk about saints and catholicism like a lot of people here in Mexico.
I'm looking for a Christian roommate, but I just don't know how to ask people that from the start.
2006-08-24 06:09:36 · 24 answers · asked by Document Guy 2 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Rather than asking each person if they're Christian, advertise in places where you'll only get Chrisians... post a roommate wanted ad in the bulletin board of your church, for example, or find friends from church.
2006-08-24 06:17:17 · answer #1 · answered by calliope320 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
oops, I misunderstood your question. Edited answer below.
Saints are very important to Mexicans, on many levels. They talk to saints and the virgin and god and their dead relatives; who continue to exist as if they were still living. You are in Mexico. It's their culture more than it is their religion.
We are like 5th or 6th generation Mexicans, living in America. My generation has never been Catholic and we don't even believe in God, like that. But we burn candles and have images of the virgin and crosses in our home.
Your best solution is to find a modern roommate (use that word). Specifically say that you are looking for someone who is not traditional. Say that you don't understand about the saint worship, and it's a little bit creepy. Someone will let you know if they are modern enough to be disconnected from their roots.
Or, find a roommate who isn't Mexican.
2006-08-24 13:32:51 · answer #2 · answered by limendoz 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you feel awkward about coming right out and asking them if they are a Christian you shouldn't feel awkward about telling them you are. I'm a Christian and have certain values and morals that I take seriously in my walk with Christ. Is that going to cause you any discomfort or possible conflict? I think everyone agrees that you need to be compatible with a roommate. This obviously is an issue of compatibility. But, don't shy away from taking a roommate that isn't a Christian. If they are open to respecting your faith, they may be open to recieving Christ into their live through you!!
2006-08-24 13:15:50 · answer #3 · answered by Rick D 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Since catholics are christians - the first christians - you might have to draw up a very specific checklist of your particular pre-approved beliefs and submit it to potential roommates as an application.
Will you be asking if they avoid mixing two fabrics together, working on the sabbath, and shun shell fish?
Are people supposed to think the beatified saints didn't exist in order to meet your approval? Are you annoyed to be reminded that there are people in the world who pray differently than you? Or did you just want to slam one particular groups superstitious practices while endorsing your own? Oh, on your checklist - jesus' comment about ignoring the log in your own eyes while you focus on the speck in your neighbors....
I think you should be up front about your prejudice. anyone who lives with you needs warning.
2006-08-24 13:23:08 · answer #4 · answered by cassandra 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
you should never be afraid to ask any question especially if it involves a major decision that affects you personally. when you are asking someone you don't know just say I am looking for a roommate who is Christian, do you know anyone? if they do they will say "i am", or "i'm not but i have a friend who is". if you are placing an ad in the paper or internet just state "looking for a Christian room mate, only serious apply please".
good luck!
2006-08-24 13:21:02 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
First, learn Spanish. Then simply explain your situation before committing to a roommate. They may not agree with you, but you will be the better person for your honesty.
2006-08-24 13:14:20 · answer #6 · answered by Jimbo 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Ask. There's no law that says you have to live with a cultist, only poverty with force you to do that. You're not hiring them for a job.
And advertise for a roommate. Say "atheists, agnostics and buddhists only" (or whatever groups you prefer/tolerate).
2006-08-24 13:14:50 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Just ask.
I would be happy to find out you were looking for a christian rather than move in and hear you bible thumping. Save everyone involved the headache.
2006-08-24 13:18:56 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I think it's more important to ask if he can pay the rent. His beliefs are none of your business. You are not living as a couple, but have lives and interests of your own!
2006-08-27 07:21:29 · answer #9 · answered by Thia 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
you should not have to ask.......I am Christian and I always recognize another Christian when I see one just by how they answer a question, something they hold to be true like somehting displayed on their car or how they act even. it's easy to recognize your brothers and sisters
2006-08-24 13:16:26 · answer #10 · answered by truegrit 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋