Having grown up in a suburban congregation in a well-educated area, I have not had many bad experiences within the organization. No one has ever tried to step out of line in telling me how to dress, what music to listen to, who to have over, etc. (except for my parents when I was living with them, but all parents set their own rules).
I have a strong set of moral values, a close family who cares about one another, and have had some good times with friends within the org. It would be easier to question the teachings if I did not have such good experiences myself.
That's only one side of the spectrum, though. Some of my friends who have moved to more rural areas have had serious problems with the elders in those congregations.
What makes for a more balanced elder body and therefore congregation? The only difference I see is the location - my hall is more affluent, good schools, etc. These rural ones typically have less money and a weaker school system.
This also back to the whole notion of your place of birth determining your religion. Maybe that's not just dependent on the country you grow up in - maybe that also works on a more finite basis - our spiritual direction depending on our own personal circumstances.
Anyone else see this trend or one similiar?
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