How can you tell your family you don't believe in god?

Answer 1

If your family are die-hard Christians, and you value your family, better keep your Atheism in secret. I've seen families torn apart not because one member switched to Atheism, but that member switched to a different Christian denominations. This phenomena is not restricted to Christianity alone. It affects all religion. Just bear in mind that no religion ever unites. It divides. Since you restrict your question to Christianity, there are now about 9,000 major Christian denominations; this is only a partial list. The total number is closer to 38,000 and counting.

There is no need for Religion to come between family members. If all members of the family really love each other, then you should be able to talk freely about your beliefs.

There may be some disappointment on your families part, but if you explain to them in a calm manner, they will also be calm in like manner.

Be honest in telling them why you are an Atheist, tell them how glad you are that they have found God, and that perhaps one day you may also find Him. It might be helpful for them to understand that as an Atheist you deny the existence of God because of...? and then give your reasons.

Remember that a calm will turn away any thought of an argument.

Before this discussion even comes up, let them see that you are still a good person, someone whom they can still be proud of. And remember that you are not really obliged to tell your parents, if that would cause them distress.

If your parents are in the practice of going to church, let them know that you no longer wish to, without at first saying why. Do not criticise Christians, but if the opportunity arises, casually point out the good reputation of people who are not Christians.

If all seems well, choose a time and place where you are all comfortable and can talk without distractions. Raise the subject gently and remember you do not have to use the word 'atheist' if that seems too strong - you need only go as far as to say you no longer believe in God. If you feel the need to explain what caused your conversion, stay away from giving reasons that would too strongly challenge their beliefs. Remember, you are not trying to convert them, and honesty does not require offence.

Hopefully, you can reach an understanding, where your parents agree not to try to convert you back to their beliefs, while you agree not to push your beliefs onto them. In the years ahead, you and your family do not need the stress of competitive proselytising. Think very carefully about what your family's reaction may be. Ask for advice from other people who come from a similar background. This may be a good place to start:

http://www.ex-christian.net/

Easy, go up to them and tell them

Answer 2

If that were me, i would simply tell them that i have other beliefs and that i dont feel as strongly in god. also i would just tell them why i feel i dont believe in god and then hope they dont mind it.

Answer 3

I think if the parents are really Christian and you are not, they will already know by your behavior. If you really belief that Christianity is a bunch of non-sense then you need to be honest with yourself and your parents and tell them. Yes it would break their heart. I do not know what kind of people you have come in contact with who call themselves Christians but I would counsel you to be careful before you make the final decision.

Answer 4

Before this discussion even comes up, let them see that you are still a good person, someone whom they can still be proud of. And remember that you are not really obliged to tell your parents, if that would cause them distress.
If your parents are in the practice of going to church, let them know that you no longer wish to, without at first saying why. Do not criticise Christians, but if the opportunity arises, casually point out the good reputation of people who are not Christians.

If all seems well, choose a time and place where you are all comfortable and can talk without distractions. Raise the subject gently and remember you do not have to use the word 'atheist' if that seems too strong - you need only go as far as to say you no longer believe in God. If you feel the need to explain what caused your conversion, stay away from giving reasons that would too strongly challenge their beliefs. Remember, you are not trying to convert them, and honesty does not require offence.

Hopefully, you can reach an understanding, where your parents agree not to try to convert you back to their beliefs, while you agree not to push your beliefs onto them. In the years ahead, you and your family do not need the stress of competitive proselytising.

Answer 5

Say "I am agnostic".