Spiritual and Religious
It is with great respect to those who undoubtably find connection with divinity outside the church (or Synagogue, Mosque, Temple, Monastery, etc.) that I offer a brief exploration of the benefits (often challenging) of being part of a religious community. Just today I mentioned to someone that surfing "checks all the spiritual boxes for me." When I surf (sometimes alone) I experience God through nature, exercise, my body, in beauty, and in solitude. I get it. Maybe it's fishing or art or contemplation for someone else. I am a big fan of finding your own way. I actually think that's an essential part of being religious, but there is more. Being part of a faith tradition (for me it's "the Episcopal branch of the Jesus movement", to quote our Presiding Bishop Michael Curry) offers experience, tradition, and accountability. Those things challenge me to get outside of myself, and to consider the experience of others. Trinity by the Sea, our Episcopal Parish i