I simply meant that I found these practices to be common. Questioning some of the fundamental beliefs is very much discouraged, a practice dating back to the pre-Luther days, when the Church was the only interpreter of the scriptures. Now that we have printed, rather than hand-copied Bibles, we all have both the right and the responsibility to inform ourselves of what the scriptures mean and how we interpret them for ourselves. When we're young, we get some guidance in this, but as literate adults, it's up to us to read, think for ourselves, and conclude what we will. Not everyone will agree, but in exchange for being allowed the liberty of free thought, we have to extend that same privilege to others.

Generally speaking, it's customary to gather and worship with those with whom we do agree. That's why there are many churches from which we can choose.

RE