Have you ever driven down the highway and seen a series of Christian signs just lodged into the ground on the side of the road, one after another, telling you to repent or you’re go to hell?
I’d never seen an atheist version of that until now — but the Atheists, Humanists, & Agnostics at the University of Wisconsin – Madison did something very similar to that on the side of Bascom Hill, a popular thoroughfare on campus. It was all part of a service they’re offering called “Faith Questioning,” the goal of which is not to create new atheists, but to help anyone unsure of where they stand come to a stronger understanding of their own beliefs:
Through faith questioning, we encourage students to examine their religious beliefs, whatever they may be. Almost everyone can relate to the struggles associated with questioning faith. When faced with religious doubts, individuals can be at risk of straining relationships with devout loved ones, and of mental or emotional stress resulting from the challenges of changing one’s world view.
Because of this, AHA officers are available to talk to questioning individuals at any time upon request. By providing a personal connection to a highly experienced AHA officer, we can help students transition to a new belief system — or reaffirm their current beliefs. We see either of these outcomes as positive, as this person has progressed to a position where they are more comfortable and confident with their religious identity.
You can check out each of the posters on their site.
Great program and great execution — there’s no doubt students will see these signs as they walk through campus and, very likely, talk about them even when they’re not in sight.