The First Church of Atheism, Tampa Bay Chapter went online this week and opened its "virtual" doors to new members. Reverend Barbara Vaka, an ordained minister with the First Church of Atheism, heads up the chapter.
Atheism is the fastest growing religion in the United States even in the Bible Belt. Atheists do not belive in God or a higher power. Their creed espouses compassion and love for their fellow man and reason and scientific fact. "I was the little girl in Sunday School that always asked questions," Reverend Vaka said. "For years I was afraid to share my true beliefs until I discovered I was not alone."
The church will hold weekly "gatherings" on Google Hangout until they find a location in New Tampa to hold services.
"We are open to everyone," Vaka said. Many Atheists are just now coming out of the closet despite the fear they will be rejected by friends and family for their beliefs. Many famous actors are proclaimed Atheists including Bruce Willis, Johnny Depp, Morgan Friedman, Jodi Foster and many more. Recently a group petitioned McDill AFB for the right to hold meetings.
The church will serve the community by supporting local charities and meeting the needs of the hungry and the homeless.
"I do not disbeive in God ," Vaka said, "I just have no eveidence that such a supreme power exists."
To learn more or to join go to www.fcatampa.org.