Recently I attended a Winter Solstice event held at a United Methodist Church.  On this evening, they did many of the things I have become familiar with from my three years researching alternative spiritualities and the ‘spiritual but not religious’ movement.  At this event they “called the directions”, had a guided meditation about finding spirit in nature, did some drumming, invited people to do a dance from Dances of Universal Peace, and had a hymn to the goddess Persephone.  Now, I realize that the mainline Protestant churches are more and more open to inter-faith dialogue and cooperation.  And I realize the white mainline Protestantism is rightfully concerned about its decline in numbers.  But is it honest or respectful to downplay the legitimate theological and spiritual differences between various faith traditions?  Is this the best way to promote greater peace?  When I look at you, do you want me to see a generic ‘person’, or who you truly are in all your individuality and heritage?  Any comments?

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