What? An universal church of atheism?
Most atheists do not identify themselves as atheists, just because, the whole question for them is a non-issue. They don't believe in the pheonix, either, but don't go around calling themselve apheonixes. The whole idea of identifying oneself in terms of what one does not believe in is ludicrous.
Most people identify atheism with a small radical and vocal number of individuals who are actually anti-religion. Atheists are not anti-religion.
They may believe the religious are mistaken, and may engage in discussion about specific points which the religious frequently put forward, but the one thing any thinking atheist would always insist is that every individual be free to think and believe what they choose. Every atheist knows, freedom begins with the freedom to pursue one's own beliefs, to promote them, practice them, and follow them in their personal choices."
Thomas Paine, possibly the most famous of Atheists, (though actually a Deist), said, "As to religion, I hold it to be the indispensible duty of every government, to protect all conscientious professors thereof." This is the predominant view of those who are not themselves professors of any religion, but who understand the necessity for liberty in belief and thought for all men.
Hank
The ones that do have a pretty lousy track record.
Thomas Paine, possibly the most famous of Atheists, (though actually a Deist),
Ponder that statement.
Look, if you say "I can't believe this guy rose from the dead" or "the universe doesn't have a supernatural cause" I can respect that.
Those, however, who say "Jesus didn't rise from the dead" or "the "universe does not have a supernatural cause" or "only the weak and superstitious believe in God" are fools.
Those who say that the teachings of Jesus should not be recognized as our cultural foundation because many believe Him to be God are also fools.
I don't know what category in which you fall.
I defend your right to atheism, but starting the public school day with a Bible reading or prayer, putting a stone inscribed with the 10 Commandments in a courtroom or singing Christmas carols at a public event don't infringe upon this right.
These things have long been part of our culture, and they are good things. They buttress the values that are -- as noted -- our foundation.
Why would he? Why should the atheist care? Where does this supposed atheistic conviction to achieve this freedom for all come from, simply his wanting it for himself? But why would wanting something for himself mean he should insist that it is provided for everyone else as well? How does this sense of 'fair play for all' originate with the atheist?