There is a concept that I was unable to dig up a citation for, but it goes something like this: those that believe in God do good out of fear of punishment or in anticipation of eternal reward, while atheists do good out of pure intent to help better a situation. I feel this is true, but it may also be a moot point. If you’re doing good, you’re doing good, and I really don’t care what your underlying motive is.
Many Christians and Christian sects feel that there is no morality without the guiding hand of religion. According to a 2016 Pew Research article written by Michael Lipka (source), volunteerism is higher among the highly religious (45%) versus those that do not identify as such (28%); these stats have been self-reported. I do not believe that atheists are any less caring than anyone else, I simply think that the disconnection from community (any community) makes an individual less likely to feel able to make any changes.
I want to make a place that atheists, agnostics, and any other faith, can come and work. I absolutely endeavor to nix purity testing: if you’re helping, you’re helping. I also hope that Gardening will serve as a sort of active roundtable where the religious and the non-religious may be able to find common ground. If God made us, then He made all of us, and we all deserve the love and kindness He intended for us, regardless of if you’re a member of a house of worship.
Tithing is a requirement of official membership of the Green Garden Church, in order to keep it functioning, but membership is not required to participate in Works. This membership requirement is necessary to keep the pool of potential beneficiaries to a manageable level. People outside of the church will receive benefits by virtue of being neighbors or community members with people that we are able to help, but those who have paid in seed money have priority.
In short, the Green Garden is meant for everyone, so we welcome everyone. If you decide to choose membership, you don’t have to proclaim your acceptance of Jesus into your heart or be baptized or anything of the like - God is love and love is God, so if you feel loved, you’re close enough!
Sincerely,
Lady Sun