In my own life, going deep in the Christian religion of my birth
has enabled me to see the same Spirit and Love in other religions as well.
Religion has, arguably, been the source of much human behavior the opposite of what Jesus Christ taught and lived.
Spirit
We realize many of you reading this are o were religious. Berna and Johnny were raised in Roman Catholic families. Both have now left the faith of their families.
Religion, throughout human history, has been a blessing and a curse.
It’s a blessing because it teaches humans there is something bright and beautiful beyond the darkness and dread physical life seems to bring to them.
So religion has certainly brought peace and comfort into the lives of many down through the centuries. But it has also created many of the horrors humanity has known from times long ago.
You’ve all been given a rigid set of rules by your religions. Rules that govern every aspect of your lives. Rules that benefited few beyond those church authorities who could bend their followers to their will.
It was all about control, and all about money.
So here we see the light and the dark sides of religion.
The point we wish to make here today is you do not need religion. If you choose to make it part of your lives, recognize its light and dark sides.
You do not need religion, or any of its “authorities,” to connect with God. Or to whatever the Divine means to you.
As we have often said over the years, you are your own highest and best authority. You are God. We’ve also said that many times over the years. But at this particular time in your human evolution, it’s critical for you to accept and embrace the fact you are God.
When you know that, when you live that, you will not need religion.
Copyright © 2022 by John Cali and Berna Copray
Edited by Berna Copray
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The late comedian, actor, author, and social critic George Carlin was known, among other things, for his irreverent humor. Here’s a short talk he gave on religion.
Please share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
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Lynn M Schneidewind
Thank you for this. I also was raised Roman Catholic. Now I am on my second year of ACIM so I believe differently now but it takes a long time to change long held beliefs. I feel some anger. I feel some fear yet about a vengeful God and sometimes I’m just confused. Forgiveness is key. I felt comfort from this post so thank you again.
John Cali
You’re most welcome, Lynn. It does take some time to change old beliefs. And it’s not always easy.
It’s been many years since we gave up religion. Life without it is more peaceful and joyful for us. That’s certainly not everybody’s experience. Religion does bring comfort and a sense of belonging to many.
As you said, forgiveness is the key. We have to let go of past pain and sadness, and move back into joy and peace. That is certainly what God wants for us.
We’re delighted the post brought you comfort. Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and feelings with all of us. God bless you!