I'm not religious, I'm spiritual!

Have you ever heard the phrase, I'm not religious, I'm spiritual, or I don't believe in organized religion?

Recently I had the privilege of discussing my writing at a Catholic Daughters of the Americas meeting.  After the event a woman approached me and asked how I respond to someone who says they're not religious but spiritual.  I could only smile as I had heard this statement many times before. My brief reply was as follows:

First, I recommend that you ask them to define what they mean by religious and spiritual.  This will make them think and vocalize their beliefs - perhaps for the first time – and also put you two on the same page for discussion.  Second, listen carefully and respectfully.  This is an opportunity to share your faith.  Based upon their answer, you may reply something like this:

"I understand what you are saying.  I am not sure I would fit into those definitions; however, I can say that I am a devoted follower of Jesus Christ and his teachings."

Allow the Holy Spirit to direct your conversation, yet do not assume the Spirit will do your work for you!  When it comes to a deadly serious discussion on eternal salvation, we are responsible to know what we believe, and why.  Our first Pope, Peter, declared, “But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” (I Peter 3:15) Whether or not the person respects or believes what you say is up to them, but do your best to lay down a firm foundation in their mind.  A degree in theology is not required.  Here is a simple formula I have used all my life.

1.      Humans are born separated from God by sin.

2.      Jesus died to reconcile humanity to God.

3.      He taught that we are born once (in the flesh) and must be born again (in the spirit).

Of course, this may lead to many questions on their part, or even argument, but it is not necessary to argue.  Be respectful, state the truth, and try to leave the door open for them to inquire further.

As for the person who says they don't believe in organized religion, my approach begins with a question rather than a statement.  For example, I might say to them, "Let me ask you this.  When it comes to professional services, like medical or financial, do you prefer the service be organized or disorganized?"  Then point out that every institution - which desires to uphold its mission with integrity - must have standard operating procedures in place and practiced.  It is no different for the Church that Jesus Christ founded.  He used written instructions (Sacred Scripture), the authority of his word (teaching), and trained his disciples to pass their knowledge and practice on to others who would succeed them (apostolic succession).  Creating an unbroken line of integrity in the global mission of the faith.

When Jesus ascended into heaven, he did not leave behind a vacuum for chaos to fill; though chaos in the form of the devil and division have tried!  He clearly placed the Apostles in authority with Peter as the first Pope (CEO) to carry on his crucial mission of the Gospel of Salvation.  Why would Jesus be less orderly than a Henry Ford or Bill Gates or Jeff Bezos?

Hopefully, in speaking with a follower of Jesus Christ, the person will leave the conversation understanding more about our Catholic faith…and want to learn more.