The Handbook of Leaving Religion introduces a neglected field of research with the aim to outline previous and contemporary research, and suggest how the topic of leaving religion should be studied in the future. The handbook consists of three sections: 1) Major debates about leaving religion; 2) Case studies and empirical insights; and 3) Theoretical and methodological approaches. Section one provides the reader with an introduction to key terms, historical developments, major controversies and significant cases. Section two includes case studies that illustrate various processes of leaving religion from different perspectives, and each chapter provides new empirical insights. Section three discusses, presents and encourages new approaches to the study of leaving religion.

The Handbook of Leaving Religion introduces a neglected field of research with the aim to outline previous and contemporary research, and suggest how the topic of leaving religion should be studied in the future. The handbook consists of three sections: 1) Major debates about leaving religion; 2) Case studies and empirical insights; and 3) Theoretical and methodological approaches. Section one provides the reader with an introduction to key terms, historical developments, major controversies and significant cases. Section two includes case studies that illustrate various processes of leaving religion from different perspectives, and each chapter provides new empirical insights. Section three discusses, presents and encourages new approaches to the study of leaving religion.

How and what to teach about religion is controversial in every country. The Routledge International Handbook of Religious Education is the first book to comprehensively address the range of ways that major countries around the world teach religion in public and private educational institutions. It discusses how three models in particular seem to dominate the landscape. Countries with strong cultural traditions focused on a majority religion tend to adopt an "identification model," where instruction is provided only in the tenets of the majority religion, often to the detriment of other religions and their adherents. Countries with traditions that differentiate church and state tend to adopt a "separation model," thus either offering instruction in a wide range of religions, or in some cases teaching very little about religion, intentionally leaving it to religious institutions and the home setting to provide religious instruction. Still other countries attempt "managed pluralism," in which neither one, nor many, but rather a limited handful of major religious traditions are taught. Inevitably, there are countries which do not fit any of these dominant models and the range of methods touched upon in this book will surprise even the most enlightened reader. Religious instruction by educational institutions in 53 countries and regions of the world are explored by experts native to each country. These chapters discuss: Legal parameters in terms of subjective versus objective instruction in religion Constitutional, statutory, social and political contexts to religious approaches Distinctions between the kinds of instruction permitted in elementary and secondary schools versus what is allowed in institutions of higher learning. Regional assessments which provide a welcome overview and comparison. This comprehensive and authoritative volume will appeal to educators, scholars, religious leaders, politicians, and others interested in how religion and education interface around the world.

If you think the only logical response to bad Christianity is to leave Christianity completely, this book is for you. In an effort to help those who’ve been hurt by or turned off by negative religion, Martin Thielen explains that there is an alternative to abandoning religion: good religion. Thielen uses personal stories to illustrate the dangers of religion that is judgmental, anti-intellectual, and legalistic. While addressing the growth of the new atheism movement and the “Nones” (people that have no religious affiliation), this book argues that leaving religion is not practical, not helpful, and not necessary. Thielen provides counterparts to the characteristics of bad religion, explaining that good religion is grace-filled, promotes love and forgiveness, and is inclusive and hope-filled. This study is perfect for individual, group, or congregational study.

Examining a wide array of ancient writings, Brent Nongbri dispels the commonly held idea that there is such a thing as ancient religion. Nongbri shows how misleading it is to speak as though religion was a concept native to pre-modern cultures.

Help for Cult Survivors and the People Who Care About Them! There are 3000 to 5000 cults in the US alone, with millions of members. Those who become disenchanted and leave often experience profound distress. The Leave the Cult Handbook offers solace, insight, and practical guidance to former members and their families. It also provides a rare glimpse into the inner workings of cult-like groups and how they affect followers for anyone wanting to know. What's In the Book?Readers find chapters on cult characteristics, cult leaders, assessing whether their group was a cult, evaluating losses and gains, and moving forward. A free, downloadable Workbook comes with the package, providing readers a chance to process their own journey and use the links to resources. What Readers Are Saying on Amazon"With sensitivity and compassion, the author brings one through the self-misgivings that accompany the decision to sever affiliation with an organization that is no longer providing emotional, psychological and spiritual happiness. Having made her own way through the healing process and counseled others through the same journey, the author is able to concisely lay out a process for restoring one's faith in life and oneself such that wellness can be regained in the most expedient manner possible. I found it very helpful." -- Mary Goodyear "Very insightful, great book for parents, friends or anyone who is in a group and wondering if they are in a "high demand group". -- Samuel Bradshaw "This is a wonderful handbook, and I only wish it had been available when I left a cult and struggled through much what the author describes on my own. I hope others find this when they need it, and that they use this guide as they listen to their own inner wisdom to build and rebuild their lives outside of a cult." -- Anni Gardner About the AuthorHiyaguha Cohen spent 23 years inside of an Eastern cult before making the difficult decision to leave. She since pursued a doctorate in human development and professional coaching and wrote her doctoral dissertation on helping survivors of cults. She has written this book with an insider's eye. Dr. Cohen lives in Hawaii and writes engaging books that help people.

Will You Stay? Caleb Breakey prays to God you do. In Called to Stay Breakey takes a refreshingly honest look at the church, the problem of Millennials leaving, and the stark reality of why the church desperately needs them. He holds nothing back as he unleashes an ambitious rallying cry to heal the church and inject his generation’s desire for truth, passion, and conviction into other believers. Caleb knows that answering the challenge of his own generation leads to a transformed church. And a changed church can change the world.