In Theory:

According to the Pew Forum, those who see their spirituality as “unaffiliated” make up 16% of Americans, but they are the fastest-growing segment of spiritual life in the United States. Why do you think so many Americans are moving away from religious affiliation?

It does seem that a certain number of people are moving away from religious affiliation and focusing more on spirituality. I think one reason for this is the recognition that religion and spirituality actually depict two different experiences. In other words, the two terms are not interchangeable. Another reason is that some have been disappointed by their faith community.

Spirituality can be described as a personal quest for meaning and purpose in life. It usually leads to the discovery of a higher power or God, which helps the individual to experience hope, love, peace and understanding. This discovery also contributes to the formation of our inner belief system.

Religion, on the other hand, is more of a corporate endeavor. The individual finds meaning and purpose by belonging to a group or organization that adheres to certain beliefs and practices. These can be described as the externals of our belief system.

Many people find spirituality through religion. However, some people find spirituality through other means, for example, music and nature. The implication here is that religion is not a requirement for spirituality.

This understanding of spirituality appeals to some, especially in a society where autonomy and individualism are stressed. It also attracts the individual who has been the victim of spiritual abuse or a toxic faith system.

Unfortunately, some people have been disappointed and even betrayed by their faith community due to various issues. This can run the gamut from sexual abuse to a dictatorial and authoritarian leader. Also, we send the wrong message when we use fear and guilt to motivate others. Many of these things “turn people off” to organized religion. It’s no wonder some are reverting to spirituality.

CHAPLAIN AL GARCILAZO

Glendale Adventist Medical Center

To be brief, the “unaffiliated” identified by the Pew Forum want religion, but they want neither God nor truth. “Unaffiliated” people may wish to place “Deed before Creed,” as they say, but the reality is that your creed always determines your deeds.