[kirklancaster]

Originally Posted by Niamh.

Yep, imo, organised religions have always been a way to have power over and control the masses and make some money. I went through a phase of being completely fascinated by Scientology and i did a bit of reading up on it. The funniest thing I thought about the whole thing was that L Ron Hubbard was a science fiction writer and he'd apparently said before he'd started the religion that the best way to make money was to start a religion..........

And I APPLAUD you for this Niamh - sincerely. You think 'OUTSIDE THE BOX' and carry out further research which is exactly HOW I came to be a Christian.

I have stated many times that I am not an orthodox Christian, I believe in Christ not 'The Church', because 'The Church' is run by corrupt MAN and I actually agree with you and Kizzy and others about 'Control' and 'Money' etc.

I too examined Scientology and Islam and Rosicrucian-ism and even Von Daniken's ET God theories among other philosophies, Religions and Theories.

I actually believed in some of it all and still do but NOT ALL.

I like to think that I am intelligent and educated, and I know that I base my belief in Christ on research, analysis and a great deal of LOGIC.

I was not 'indoctrinated' into it all or 'brainwashed by parents or schools. I CHOSE to believe in Christ.