Frequently asked questions
What is Lantereanism?
Lantereanism is a modern, secular philosophy rooted in reason, compassion, and personal growth. It offers a way to explore meaning, connection, and ethical living without relying on supernatural beliefs. Drawing from science, the arts, critical thinking, and shared human experience, Lantereanism provides a framework for living with depth, purpose, and integrity. It is not about rejection. It is about building a thoughtful path forward.
Is Lantereanism a religion?
No. Lantereanism is a secular practice that recognizes the human longing for meaning, ritual, and belonging. It offers these through reason, creativity, and shared values instead of faith or dogma. While it may share some outward forms with religion, such as community gatherings and reflective texts, it remains grounded in naturalism and personal autonomy.
Who is Lantereanism for?
Lantereanism is for anyone seeking meaning, beauty, and community without relying on traditional religion. Whether you identify as atheist, agnostic, humanist, spiritual-but-not-religious, or are simply exploring, if you care about honesty, growth, and connection, you are welcome here.
What is the Lanterean Oath?
Those who feel deeply aligned with the values and vision of Lantereanism may choose to take the Lanterean Oath. This is a personal commitment to the journey of Becoming, which means living with intention, clarity, and compassion. Taking the oath makes someone a Lanterean.
You do not need to take the oath to attend gatherings or participate. The oath is a meaningful declaration of commitment, not a barrier to belonging.
Why not just call it humanism?
Humanism is one of Lantereanism’s roots. What sets Lantereanism apart is its focus on shared ritual, poetic language, symbolic meaning, and an evolving philosophy of Becoming. It is not only an ethical framework. It is also a way of cultivating wonder, reflection, and community in everyday life.
Do you believe in anything supernatural?
No. Lantereanism is grounded in naturalism, which means it relies on evidence, reason, and honest inquiry. But we still cherish mystery, awe, and reverence. These are not based on belief in the unseen, but arise from a deep response to the beauty and complexity of reality itself.
Is this just reinventing religion?
In some ways, it is a reinvention. But it is also a transformation. Lantereanism seeks to preserve the wisdom and structure that religion has offered while discarding hierarchy, dogma, and supernatural claims. It is an effort to carry forward what is meaningful in a way that is honest, inclusive, and relevant to modern life.
What are your core values?
Lantereanism values:
Reason as a guide
Compassion as a compass
Growth as a lifelong pursuit
Beauty as nourishment
Community as essential to thriving
Integrity as a measure of truth
What does “Becoming” mean?
Becoming is the heart of Lantereanism. It reflects the idea that we are never finished. We are always growing and unfolding. To live as a Lanterean is to approach life with openness, responsibility, and curiosity. Becoming means moving forward with care and clarity.
What happens at a Lanterean gathering?
We gather every other Sunday to reflect, connect, and share. A gathering may include a reading or short talk, music or poetry, quiet reflection, conversation, and time to be present with others. It is a space for thoughtful engagement, not performance or pressure.
How do I become a Lanterean?
You become a Lanterean by taking the Lanterean Oath. This is a personal expression of alignment with the values of reason, compassion, and Becoming. It is not required to attend events or engage with the community, but for many, it marks a meaningful point of commitment.
Is there a book or text?
Yes. The Book of Becoming is our living guide. It includes reflections, values, secular rituals, meditations, and poetic insights. It is not fixed or final. It grows with us.
Does Lantereanism have political goals?
Lantereanism is not a political stance, but it is grounded in a sense of justice, dignity, and care for others. We support civic responsibility, informed thinking, and systems that value human flourishing. While we do not take specific political stances, we oppose harm, oppression, and dishonesty in all forms.
How does Lantereanism relate to religion?
Lantereanism is not anti-religious. It simply offers an alternative path for those who seek meaning and community outside of religion. We honor the dignity of people of all beliefs. Our focus is not on opposition but on offering something constructive and inclusive for those walking a secular path.