Now that atheism is a religion, isn't it time us atheist built some 'churches' and get some tax breaks?

Question

this 2005 article http://www.worldnetdaily.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=45874

"A federal court of appeals ruled yesterday Wisconsin prison officials violated an inmate's rights because they did not treat atheism as a religion."

additionally:
"The Supreme Court has said a religion need not be based on a belief in the existence of a supreme being. In the 1961 case of Torcaso v. Watkins, the court described "secular humanism" as a religion. "

Wow. So, who has some cool church plans? Giant Penis Building, anyone? Other good ideas?

Finally, large tax breaks and public funding are within our reach! We can even declare some holidays! Woo! I vote fridays off.

I also appoint myself antipope, and await the first schism with eager anticipation.

Oh, it's only one source so who knows if it is true. I'm too lazy to research it further.

Ydoncha: We get to SET the schedules, dude. And submarines! Who _doesn't_ want a submarine? Honestly.

Answer 1

If we form a formal church, in another few thousand years it will be just as corrupted as religion is now.

Answer 2

Well unfortunately Washington DC already has a giant penis statue (the Washington Monument was based on one of Cleopatra's needles - which were her dildos). But I'm sure we could put up lots of penis churches in the deep south, then we'd have to fun of wading through protesters and getting involved in legal disputes - disputes that could result in Supreme Court cases which make the country more secular.

I'm in favor of Flying Spaghetti Monster churches though. And I could be a pastor and be tax exempt.. hmm..


Though seriously, I'm not too keen on atheism being a religion. It's not like there's any real faith involved.

Answer 3

Well, it's not a religion but I would like to see more organized groups of them. That way people could be more open about there beliefs through others experiences with atheism. So far all we have are a couple of movies and some Richard Dawkins books.

Answer 4

Hoonestly?? I could care less. I wouldnt join an Atheist Church either. I like my free time, and I like life on my own scheudle, not someone else's... Besides, if we open a church, we would have to start soliciting donations, and the next thing you'd know we'd be in the middle of scandals involving the leader of the Church driving a new submarine for underwater research or something....

Answer 5

Perfect! You can be anti-pope, but I want to have a church at my house! I need a big tax break this year. Also, gigantic penis shaped churches would be a good idea---a very ancient and accepted symbol of fertility--important for all religions.

Answer 6

I swear, if those reports are true, then I'm behind you guys having an Our Lady of the Flying Spaghetti Monster Tabernacle, Bar & Grill.

I'm a Shintoist, but that doesn't mean I don't agree with you guys on (most) things.

Answer 7

Does this mean that Wis is actually on the cutting edge of something besides beer, cows and cheese?

I'm reeling!

I'd just as soon not get involved too deeply, but I'd be thrilled to come to the parties!

Answer 8

Atheist should be free from paying taxes since we do not "trust in god"

Just kidding I don't mind paying fair taxes to build roads and schools.

Honestly Atheist need meeting places..... How about an Atheist library, coffeehouse, Internet cafe thing?

We can give out free "god is imaginary" brochures.

Answer 9

There are already atheist freethought churches down in Texas, honey. You've already missed the boat.

Sign me up for the Giant Penis church. Can we build it on the playa? Or better yet, in Washington DC.

Answer 10

Oh no you don't... if atheism is now a "religion" I have been designated by the FSM to create churches that resemble "Olive Gardens" and promote the liberal use of parmesan.

Let the first great schism begin!


lmao

I designate myself "the big cheese"