
It has been all over the internet–and my theological journals too–recently, that a large percentage of so-called Millennialsdon’t identify with any religion at all, and the new classification assigned by pollsters is “none.” This makes me, a Gen-Xer, very curious. I have to admit that as a “Cradle Catholic” and product of Catholic schools the concept is quite foreign to me.
I do understand being disillusioned with the Catholic Church, especially over gender issues and the ongoing sex scandals. But for me, the closest I came to leaving was talking to a friend about becoming an Episcopalian, an inquiry I abandoned once Pope Francis was elected (I really love him). Although I am not a perfect Catholic (the phrase “Cafeteria Catholic” fits in certain ways–but then it does for most Catholics on either side of the spectrum) I can’t imagine believing in God and not being part of a faith community, despite the flaws inherent in any institution run by imperfect human beings. And for me, I’ve always found the dichotomy between spirituality and religion a false one; after all, any study of the great mystics and spiritual leaders throughout history shows that many, if not most, belonged to a church community.
But I want to hear about your experiences, too. What do you consider yourself, faith-wise? I regret using labels for such a huge part of our human experience, but for now it will have to do. Do you reject all organized religion, and if so, why? Do you consider yourself a spiritual person, or do you want nothing to do with any of it (in which case it is highly unlikely you are reading my blog, but one never knows)? Please, I invite you to share your story. I promise I won’t proselytize or preach. I just want to understand better.
Related articles
- Andrew Greeley on the Catholic Imagination (homespunresources.wordpress.com)
- Spiritual Journeys of Millennials (ourcommunityatfbcdc.wordpress.com)
- Dropouts: Suspended or Expelled? (rescueuth.wordpress.com)
- Integrating families into youth ministry may keep more young adults affiliated with churches (readingeagle.com)
- Jesus Was A Hipster? 7 Funniest Ways Christian Churches Are Trying to Get Hip With the Kids (alternet.org)
Thanks for the links to your blog and your arguments for and against organized religion. Fantastic and very thorough!
LikeLike