Secular and nonreligious communities in North Alabama
Secular people live by values drawn from reason, experience and compassion rather than from a religious creed. Pew Research estimates that about 1.9 billion people worldwide identify with no religion, making the unaffiliated one of the largest groups on earth. Even with no place of worship, secular people look for friendship, meaning and ways to serve their neighbors, and NAWD lists the groups that make that possible in North Alabama.
Values and outlook
Secular is not the same as hostile to religion. Many secular people have religious family and friends, respect the freedom to believe, and want government to treat every belief and nonbelief equally. Common values include honesty, curiosity, kindness, community service and a commitment to evidence.
Gatherings and community
Secular groups include discussion circles, volunteer teams, student alliances, family meetups and community events that borrow what people value from congregations, such as music, reflection and mutual support. Trained celebrants can officiate weddings, memorials and naming ceremonies without religious content.
Observances and visiting
Many groups mark Darwin Day in February, the winter solstice, Earth Day and the National Day of Reason in May. Everyone is welcome, believer or not. Contact the organizers for meeting times and places.