Not everyone is a member of mainstream religion. Even if they are,
they may not think alike. This may or may not be something an
investigator or group has encountered yet but may eventually.
Sometimes these differences can create a point of difficulty in
investigations -- relating to the point of view of the client,
searching for resolutions for certain encounters, or purely addressing
the issues at hand.
Religion can be a diversive topic.
It can generate anger when misunderstood.
Occassionally, groups suggest or use certain ritual or ceremony to bless, cleanse, or exorcise a home.
Anyone run into a religious barrier they've had to overcome? Anyone walked away due to religious differences? Anyone recommended a ritual or ceremony for a purpose to a client? Anyone work with a group or person of non-traditional system?
I agree, that I too, do not go into an investigation with a religious alterior motive. It is not for me to relay what I believe, spiritually, but what I can show them physically in dealing or communicating with spirits.
I think religion and the paranormal are a weird mixture. Without one, we really wouldn't have the other, no matter what you believe.
I go into an investigation for research into a paranormal event. If it is paranormal at all. I do have religious beliefs but I do not let that interfere with an investigation. Even if the client has the same beliefs, I am there just to recorded and monitor paranormal happenings if they do occur. If confronted by a negative force. I do not worry about it. Its part of what may happen during an investigation. If the clients wish to have something removed. Then suggestions are made on who to call or where to find people who clear houses or do pass over work. If they wish for me to assist these people I will do so at their request.
I for one never come at my investigations from a religious point of view. I do not seek spiritual or religious solutions to a haunting. I do not encourage or discourge the use of clergy.
I also am not there to remove or attempt to remove a haunting. I am a researcher and I am there to observe, document and study the haunting if one does in fact exist.
I have often wondered about this. How does one approach a cleansing or exorcism if the ritual is in direct contradiction to the client's religious beliefs? Good questions. I don't have answers but am looking forward to reading some of the responses.
I am thinking of starting a free banner exchange for anyone with a paranormal website. If you think this is a good idea then let me know. If there is enough interest I'd start it up.
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