Jesus is the Reason for the Season... Or is He? Show Notes 12/19/06

My 2-hour holiday special got cut a bit short -- apparently I overextended my welcome. However, many thanks to folks who tuned in and to my five guests who shared various thoughts about raising children with or without religion.

The separation of church and state, particularly as it relates to school is a hot issue. I was emailed a memo from a public school principal basically removing ANY holiday reference except on clothing. Certainly this is encompassing of all religions and alleviates any awkward situations, however, is it the best way to go? Can't we celebrate ALL holidays? And on a bigger scale, aren't there more important issues to address? (like war, hunger, peace, etc.).

Amy and Catherine joined me to discuss their own personal Catholic upbringings. Amy's decision to raise her child without a specific religion was based on her own questioning of the Catholic faith, and a non-religious husband who turned out just fine (no devil incarnate there). Catherine, also raised Catholic, is still on the fence about religion -- on one hand acknowledging the power of the ritual and faith and on the other, disagreeing with some of the rules, regulations and church practices. Both discussed positive experiences with the church (particularly more liberal beliefs) and how the decision to return to the church is always an option. Educating their kids in various religions is important, however, it's one of those things where if you know something well, it would seem obvious to head back to that direction.

Dana and Julie followed to discuss their own backgrounds -- Dana being a raised and currently practicing Catholic and Julie, who idenitifies as more atheist. Both discussed the notion of faith being important -- Dana finding hers in the church and hoping her children do the same in terms of feeling comfort and support not "hell and damnation" as their reasoning for attending and continuing in the faith. Julie felt that her children were not missing out, and that they did celebrate the holiday season; her questioning of religion and non-belief came from a scientific standpoint.

Jennifer (via email) discussed her decision to raise her children Jewish - with the support of her agnostic husband. Certainly folks who subscribe to a minority religion have a different experience during the holidays when everything is SO strongly Christian. Many can feel almost invisible when the assumption is made that EVERYONE is Christian. While raised more of a "cultural" Jew, Jennifer now attends synagogue with her family and her children attend religious school.

There's no scheduled show for next week - however, I'll be back in 2007 with all new shows (and possibly a new baby). If you have something you'd like to discuss, please drop me an email (coolmompicks@gmail.com). I've got some great topics lined up - I just need some folks to come on the air and discuss them. Check them out at: www.theblogexchange.net

And many thanks for listening. Happy Holidays -- whichever one you choose to celebrate.