Space Places

Some believe that by uploading their brains and shooting their mind files into outer space, they'll be able to achieve immortality. The apostle Paul has a better idea.

When we think of a religious or sacred space, we normally envision grand cathedrals, quiet retreats or modern worship centers. Right?

If you're a practitioner of a new religion called Terasem, however, your center of worship is actually a satellite dish in Florida. While televangelists use dishes to broadcast their messages, this particular dish isn't about beaming out another appeal for donations; instead, it's about beaming out memories.

"The name Terasem comes from the Greek word for 'Earthseed,' which is also the name for the futuristic religion found in [an ironically named] Octavia Butler sci-fi novel Parable of the Sower" (Roy). The novel inspired Bina and Martine Rothblatt to start their new faith, which is based on four core doctrines: "life is purposeful, death is optional, God is technological and love is essential." According to the Rothblatts, the high priests of Terasem, you don't have to give up being a Christian, Muslim, Jew or any other faith to be a practitioner -- you ...