Q&A (qanda): Religion, Faith and Love 1 April 2013 (ABC Australia) [SD 512 x 288]

OFFICIAL WEB SITE: Find out everything (Panellists, Transcript, Questions and Tweets) about this episode at the official ABC Q&A (qanda) web site: http://www.abc.net.au/tv/qanda/txt/s3717805.htm PANELLISTS: Tony Jones (Religion = Unknown) - host Archbishop Mark Coleridge (Religion = Catholic) - much better speaker than George Pell Dr Mohamad Abdalla (Religion = Muslim) - finally a calm, logical Imam gets a voice in our media) Robina Courtin (Religion/Philosphy = Buddist) - fast talking and non-commital Josh Thomas (Religion = Non Religious (Atheist)) - articulate, straight-to-the-point in this discussion but usually a comedian Deborah Conway (Religion = Jewish by birth by Atheist by choice) - easily balances a foot in both camps and a musician by day AUDIENCE: A sample of the Q&A Audience tonight: Christian 48%, Muslim 8%, Jewish 6%, Buddhist 4%, Athiest/Agnostic 32% MY $0.02: The show reminded me of a roller-coaster ride. Slow to get started with an airy-fairy discussion about Heaven, picked up speed, some comments made me want to vomit, Dr Mohamad Abdalla was a breathe of fresh air and all-in-all it was a very enjoyable and entertaining experience. It was great to seeJosh Thomas out of his comedic clothes and engaging in serious debate. Josh was out of the gate succinctly answering the "everything has a creator" question and finished strongly with the final topic on homosexuality. Unusual ending with a song but Deborah Conway still has a magnificent voice and the song lyrics matched the discussion topic perfectly. GREAT TWEETS: (1) A wonderful group of panelists tonight. Civilised and enlightening conversation taking place despite diverse views at the table. (2) so great to see a strong muslim voice on #qanda educating Australians