Rhiannon

Like Newsome, I am a Christian and a member of the United Methodist Church. Having been raised Methodist and then visiting different denominations, it was an easy decision to remain Methodist. I think in many churches they get too engrossed in the "doctrine" and forget that we are to be a loving, caring, forgiving people. John 3:16 For God so loved the world he gave his only begotten Son that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. (but many forget the verse that follows which is just as important) John 3:17 God did not send his Son into the world to condemn it, but to save it.

In my religion all that is truely required of me is Faith. I am expected to try to live my life following God's teachings of love and to follow His commandments: however my religion is not a rule book that if I break one rule I am going to burn in Hell that is where Grace comes in. No one is perfect--never has been and never will be and God is all too aware of that. I am forgiven when I screw up and that is the greatest comfort. My religion is based on Love and I am to love everyone no matter what faith they have--or lack there of. I am not to judge lest I be judged. I don't handle snakes or bash gays, or think that if a person has a drink he will burn in Hell. My faith is bigger than that...you cannot bog it down like that. It is a peace that surpasses all understanding.