This is a really interesting topic for me, in my current state of momhood. I was raised with religious instruction. Is that the right word for growing up in a house where we went to church each Sunday, attended confirmation classes, bible school? We weren't bible thumpers, by a long shot. But, morals/values/christian behaviour was taught. I am Presbyterian, btw.

I don't regularly attend church today (or any day). But, have wondered what will I do when I have my baby. Lilycat and I have discussed this. She really supports a religous upbringing. To deprive my child of one would be 'wrong', or a shame, in her opinion. I feel to deprive him/her of one would be a parental misdeed. I don't think I want my child to grow up without some relgious foundation. If this is the same one he/she turns away from at some age..that is 'ok'. I mean I won't like the decision, but, at least he/she will be turning away from something. There isn't any guarentee that what I teach/bring my child up will be the same thing that child will take with him/her forever.

As to 'letting my child decide'...YIKES! Should I let my child decide if education is the primary way to get ahead in this world? Should I let my child decide if law abiding ways are the better route to happiness? Should I let my child decide that kindness is better than spite? No, absolutely not. My child is my child. She/he will be brought up the way I see fit. And, if that means by exposing him/her to regular religious instruction of MY BELIEFS, so be it. I could do a far cry worse. Hello early Sunday mornings...