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Hey BN, The world is full of zealots, almost all with good intentions.

One of the downsides to organized religion is the "Mine is the only way" mentality.

Don't get caught up in it. Find your own God.

'''i teach an native american religion class. and there is this guy by the name of tim sherman he is a christan pastor. well he makes an open comment on the native american religion that the religion is demonic activitys and also whichcraft supporters. ''
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Question;

What religion are the native americans..?

Well first off I am surprised that you used his name because if there is any discrepincies in your story and his you could be charged on slander. Second, I am sorry to hear of your plight and see absolutly no reason why, if you were teaching a Native American Religion class, that you should be persicuted in any form or nature. The school you taught at hired you for that specific class and your obvious expertise in it at that. I think that you should pursue action against the collage that hired you and helped in your having to quit your job. It's fight or flight and if you are dedicated to your religion and culture than I would suggest that you fight for what you were hired to do. Keep up the good fight, I have faith in you.

Yet another example of how religion turns people against one another, and promotes fear and hatred rather then togetherness and peace. The various religions, even if they don't advertise it, think they are the one true religion sanctioned by "God". So ultimatley, everyone who does not share their faith comes under suspicion-though in person my be polite, and even ecumenical at times. You are lucky this isn't the middle ages or the Catholic Church would have cooked you over a roaring fire, or drawn and quarted you. My suggestion is to read a science book, and leave the religion alone- if you can.

That really sucks! People and their religion! Argh!! Unfortunately there probably isn't much you can do. I would just let it calm down for now...and then stand up for what you believe in. Did you work in a public school or private? If it was public then you should try to see if anything can be done considering the church/state seperation. I guess that might not work considering it was a "religion" class but who knows. Some people no matter who they are or what religion think that they are the only ones who are right. Everyone is entitled to their opinions but he should NEVER have assumed things about your religion that he OBVIOUSLY seems to know nothing about. I am suprised that the police seem to be against you if your community is mainly Native Americans too. Some people are too ignorant and there is nothing you can do to fix it. I would stand your ground and just know that people who don't think before they speak will get what they deserve in the end; no matter what "God/Gods" they believe in, ya know? Hang in there.
~K~

This is an old thread and don't know if you're still around, but mail me and we'll discuss outside this public forum. I don't know what you're up against, but I do understand the feeling. I will not discuss my beliefs with too many people around the Pine City area; phony as some are to try and get me to talk, then throw it back in my face with talk about demons and going to hell. I'll usually smile, thank them for their opinion, walk away and try not get close enough to come under their shadow again.

Itsalakelife~ I'm sorry to say you're wrong about zealots; my experience, most are controlling, manipulative and lead their sheeples to spread the word; subtly hateful as it can be sometimes. Beyond that babyboy native very clearly stated in the OP that he teaches Native American religion and therefore already has his own belief.

TheDuke~ You are correct about slander; babyboy, be very careful what you say mentioning names and accusation in this public forum, no matter how true. Although IMO you haven't gone too far yet; remember, you never know who will read it. I will however, differ from TheDuke and say pick your battles wisely.

Tee2U~ I was with you up to the point of advising taking up science. Babyboy native is working to keep alive what remains of his heritage after centuries of oppression. Beyond that, teaching Native American Spirituality IMO superior cultural knowledge. Also IMO, science teachers by comparison are a dime a dozen.

k_4beautiful~ It does suck many times religious zealots will push the church/state separation envelope with impunity. And seems like the Christian 'Pastor' may enjoy some favor in the community. However, I wouldn't assume what others should know or may be ignorant of. And police, unless they are reservation police may back up the so called 'Pastor' even if he's self appointed, as some are. I give you Mac Hammond for example... Google him as I avoid the slander trap.

I agree with K... hang in there; although I would seek higher ground and avoid argument with the 'Pastor' in the presence of others. Sheeple tend to connect with the circular logic these zealots use to propagate their 'faith' in controlling beliefs.

All this aside; what do your elders have to say?

Must take my afternoon nap catch my second wind of the day.

I look forward to seeing further discussion without naming names and accusations of outsiders to the forum.

Blessings, peace and good fortune to you all
Jack

I'm not sayin' anything; I'm just sayin'..." ~Bohemianjack, on communication