While most freethinkers are tolerant of other's viewpoints and belief systems, the prospect of being intimately/romantically involved with a theist is often repellent. We often feel that there are such fundamental differences between a person with an atheistic perspective and one with god-beliefs that it would be unfulfilling and fraught with problems.

This hurdle has probably faced many of you, and, as always, there are various ultimate outcomes. One man I knew became involved with a woman who assured him that his lack of faith would not be a problem for her-- only to try to convert him later. Another couple I know have no difficulties navigating his lack of belief and her Jewish leanings.

Some religious people have issues partnering with people of a different faith; to become involved with someone of no faith whatsoever is nigh unthinkable. Sometimes it's a make-or-break deal.

This is not a discussion we secularists engage in often, usually pursuing topics such as church/state separation, creationism, civil rights, and many other educational topics. Freethinkers tend toward the rational end of the spectrum, and talk of emotions or relationships with people isn't always high on the list of priorities. To be sure, there is some awareness on this level-- non-religious unions presided over by Humanistic Celebrants, as an example.

At my student group, Campus Atheists and Secular Humanists (CASH) at the University of Minnesota, we've had a number of discussion sections over the years that addressed familial issues with respect to atheism ("Coming out as an atheist"), but never one specifically devoted to partnerships. So, that's what we're doing this week.

Since you will not likely be able to attend our meeting this week (although I'm sure you'd like to!), I wanted to start this discussion here. Have you dealt with these issues in your personal relationships? Have you made it work with a believer? Is it a non-issue to you? Is it a deal-breaker?