Reply #23: Yes, I've been to many churches! Here are the answers to your questions.

[RamblingRose]

"If an Islamic Mosque offered the use of its hall"
I would be thrilled. I've always wondered what one looks like inside. However, I can only think of maybe 2 Mosques in the county, and they are very small. I would have no problem going there, if they would allow a non-Muslim in.

"Do you believe there were no religious rites performed during their attendance"
From my previous experiences, I would say no religious rites will be performed. Many school choirs take advantage of the large churches in the area for their high quality organs, great acoustics, and size. I've never heard a prayer or seen anyone preach at one yet, except for the choir director or whoever to thank "x" for the use of their building.

"What do you suppose the communities reaction would be"
I would hope it would be positive, however I cannot speak for everyone. I think it could be a very positive thing to educate others and overcome our stereotypes.

"What do you suppose a child that attended the church but was struggling with their belief would have felt in being made to go there for a school event"
First, it is not a required school event, but a "promotion ceremony". I'm not sure when these ceremonies first started, but suspect they started in the upper class burbs. Secondly, I have taught my children that there are many religions, and no "one" is right, and no "one" is wrong. With that being said, we have lots of friends of all faiths, and we love learning about all of them, and respect their beliefs.

And for the most part, Baptist, Methodist & Presbyterian churches are not big into the idolatry. A Catholic church would be a bit harder to accept, since they usually have a large cross with Jesus nailed to it up on the altar.

If we are to become a society that truly accepts the beliefs of others and want to live together in peace, then we should to teach our children early to respect the beliefs of others, and not let it become a divisive issue.