This is not the sort of thing I usually ask; I need some perspective from people of various faith/spiritual experiences.

Do you ever feel uncomfortable around people of other religions who are especially vocal about their beliefs?

I have recently relocated and found myself in a group that I *thought* was secular. While it is, technically, there seems to be a very large number of members who are very vocal about their religious convictions. Nothing has been said to me in particular regarding my beliefs (& I would not discuss them if anything was said). As much as I might have in common with these ladies, I just can't feel comfortable and I think it's because of their constant mention of religion. In the past I have had close friends who were strongly religious and it never effected our relationships so why is this different. The only thing I can figure is that my friends weren't open about their religion and these new people are (very). I'm at the point now where even the religious tag lines on their e-mails is making me feel uncomfortable.

Has anyone else ever felt this way? Would it be inapproprate for me to ask that religious conversations be refrained from? Should I just leave the group and find one that really is secular?

Thanks everyone

Chole

I don't think I have ever felt like that. However, I sometimes worry I AM like that.

My religious beliefs are so much a part of me, that without conscious constant effort on my part to keep them out of anything I say or do, they slip in.

I try not to be in your face about things, but I know sometimes I come across that way simply because what I think and believe is so much a part of me.

Could it be possible that is coming through with these people? Then again, my sig and such would never reflect that - just only my online responses to specific threads.

I'm sorry you're uncomfortable! I can definitely see why you might be. That's why I fear that I'll be one of those causing the discomfort.

Without knowing more about the group, it is hard to give any definitive answers.

But

Would it be inapproprate for me to ask that religious conversations be refrained from?

Yes, I tink that would be inappropriate. If you're the one who is uncomfortable, then you either need to find a way to be comfortable in those circumstances or leave the group if you are in the minority. If they aren't trying to force their beliefs on you, I can't genuinely see any good reason to feel uncomfortable, and certainly can't see a good reason to ask them to accomodate your discomfort.