Bored Panda reached out to Nathan Monk, a former priest, human rights activist, and book author, who recently wrote the novel “The Miracle” which deals with our complicated relationship with our creator. Nathan also shared the viral Facebook post on the funny signs from Redeemer Presbyterian Church.

The former priest believes that “many of us grew up with the idea that we are to 'fear God' and that leaves a mark.” But there has been “a slow shift in the Church over the years of allowing good humor in and a softening of approach.”

It’s partly due to the fact that churches are shrinking and that poses new challenges. “Faith communities have to find new ways to engage, both in the digital age, and in a post-pandemic world,” he said.

Nathan is convinced that humor is extremely important, especially in the time we live in now. “We have to laugh! There are those who think religion is supposed to be only serious and reverent.

“But God is both majestic and silly. The same God who daily paints the most beautiful sunset also created the fart,” Nathan added.

The former priest also said he understands very well why people have complicated relationships with religion. “I’ve had my own. I grew up in a faith healing church as a kid and then left that for the structured environment of the Eastern Orthodox Church.”

Nathan left the priesthood “in support of marriage equality.” It turns out, “humor and love is what got me through all the difficult days.”