Mom, Dad, I’m an Atheist: A Conversation with David McAfee

David McAfee grew up going to church with his family, but says he never really believed the stories of the Bible were true. But when he discovered that his family truly did believe them, instead of being driven away from religion he became obsessed with learning more about it – so much so that he began visiting other churches and eventually went on to earn degrees in religious studies.

And while McAfee identifies himself as an atheist, his obsession with religion has turned into two books, including "Mom, Dad, I’m an Atheist: The Guide to Coming Out as a Non-Believer."

Houston Matters' Michael Hagerty asked McAfee how and when he knew he was an atheist and why it's important – and often so difficult – for atheists to "come out" to their religious family and friends.

McAfee spoke last weekend at Houston Oasis, a regular gathering of "free thinkers." He’s just finished a children’s book to teach kids about the different forms of belief.

MORE: How a Former Atheist Became an Episcopal Minister (Houston Matters, Nov. 19, 2014)