Before the internet, was there a place where atheism and Christianity could come together?

Question

…and politely discuss things they find confusing about each others perspectives? You know, like they do here? Was there a place where atheists could go where they knew they were likely to encounter Christians and was there a place where Christians could ask questions of the atheists designed to test their rejection of god?

Answer 1

I'm not aware of any such forum prior to the Internet. The "politeness" on R&S is pretty much due to the fact that we can't reach through our computer screens and strangle someone on the other side.

Answer 2

This the only honest and fair question I have ever seen you post, Desiree. I really appreciate that it now exists :-)

To answer your question, I too have wondered this. I have friends of all persuasions, be it theist of all sorts or atheist, so I personally have been able to hang out and discuss/debate the origins of who we are, theology, philosophy, etc However, I suspect there was never anything quite like this to be able to get together and discuss differing beliefs on such a large scale. There are alot of people depending on geography that havent had the ability to have people of differing mindsets to bounce ideas around with. I believe the word polite is an important word for everyone to follow regardless of any medium they may use.

Answer 3

When I was in college, I used to have chats like this nearly ever day at the student union building or on the quad.

A debate, via letters to the editor, went on between a gay person, who claimed to be a Christian, and myself.

While most letter's to the editor where short and buried in the middle of the paper, this debate was usually printed on the front page.

Pastor Art

Answer 4

I love the Internet. I can talk to people of all faiths and beliefs, from most countries in the world. It is the best of learning opportunities!

Answer 5

Yes, knocking on an atheist door hoping to spread the word.

Answer 6

Atheist and Christians come together EVERYWHERE pre and post internet because they exist everywhere.

Answer 7

yes the coffehouses of the 60's were a precursor to the internet .but we were mostly too wasted to hold up our end of the conversation.

Answer 8

Come together, right now, over me, good jam