Atheists' Protocol

[Thorne]

So, my questions are,

(1) Should leading politicians admit they are atheists where this is so, or hide the fact?

I don't think any politician should be required to divulge his/her religious beliefs, regardless of what they are. On the other hand, professing a false faith just to garner votes would be lying, and we all know politicians don't do that!

(2) Should self-proclaimed atheists participate in Christian activities such as Carol Services at Christmastime?

Why not? If they enjoy the music, and that's their sole motivation, what's the harm? Should we prevent Christians, Jews or Muslims from singing "Jingle Bells" since it's NOT a religious song?

PS: I should declare an interest. I do not believe in God, but I married a Roman Catholic and sent my children to a Catholic School. And I love going to Midnight Mass at Christmas.

I was raised a Roman Catholic but turned away long ago, and haven't been in church for anything other than weddings or funerals since. Living in South Carolina my kids picked up a smattering of Southern Baptist from their friends and teachers and some Catholic from their grandmother, but neither of them are religious, either.
And don't worry, people. I don't sing ANY Christmas carols, ever! Though I do enjoy Handel's "Hallelujah Chorus."