Editor, Manteca Bulletin,

As an organizer for the Stockton Area Atheists and Freethinkers, I am encouraged by the many thoughtful comments and letters that I have been reading in the Manteca Bulletin in the past few days, leading up to our big event this Wednesday.

When we decided to book the Manteca Public Library for our colloquium series, we knew that there would be both positive and negative reactions. What we didn’t expect was the outpouring of support from new members and the religious community, which easily overshadowed the war-inspired efforts of a few local churches.

This Wednesday’s event, hosting acclaimed historian Dr. Richard Carrier, will be fascinating for those who want to learn how the scientific process and math can be applied to religious claims – such as Jesus’ resurrection.

Carrier has debated William Lane Craig, has spoken yearly at SkeptiCon, has participated in the authors’ panel at Sacramento Freethought Day, and has made numerous TV appearances throughout the years. This will be a presentation not to miss.

We also humbly ask that those who gather nearby to worship will be more considerate to our guests. We ask them to leave us a few parking spaces, not to block our exits with burly “security guards”, and not to surround us with a prayer circle this Wednesday evening. 

Most importantly, we want everyone who arrives – from all churches and secular groups – to bring canned food. We have chosen the Second Harvest Food Bank as our charity this month, and a bag of food is your admission fee.

It is our hope that we can work together to improve the lives of others despite our disagreements, and have an enjoyable evening for all that is open to critical thought and goodwill.

Coffee and Girl Scout cookies will be served. Doors open at 7:45 p.m. on Wednesday, with the event starting at 8 p.m. Learn more, to RSVP, or contact us at StocktonAAF.org.

David Diskin

 Stockton Area Atheists & Freethinkers