My Spiritual Journey: From Catholic to Generalized Theist
Irrespective of whether or not you consider yourself religious, the journey of faith is a deeply personal one. My own path has been a complex and evolving process. Let me share my experience and beliefs with you.
My Current Beliefs: Generalized Theist
As I reflect on my spiritual journey, I can confidently say that I have moved beyond traditional religious labels such as Catholic or Christian. While I still believe in a divine being who loves and roots for humanity, my views have evolved significantly over the years. I do not consider myself a Catholic anymore as I no longer fully subscribe to its doctrines. Similarly, I cannot accurately call myself a Jew because I don’t identify with all the cultural and religious practices associated with the Jewish faith.
A Shift in Faith
My journey began as a practicing Catholic for most of my life, despite not fully believing in all its doctrines. I found comfort in the idea of God as a loving yet powerless figure, much like a sports team coach who wants the best for us. However, early in 2018, my faith in Jesus as the divine Messiah waned. I now see Him as a remarkable person, but still just a human. My belief in God’s omnipotence increased, but I still see Him as more of a sympathetic bystander.
The Impact of the Pandemic
The wretched pandemic brought significant changes to my life. It forced me to re-evaluate my priorities and, unfortunately, put an end to my regular church attendance. In 2022, I contracted Covid-19 and was left with lingering symptoms, which made attending Mass every Sunday unfeasible. Now, I only attend Mass when I am with my parents, marking a return to my familiar Catholic roots. However, the majority of my weeks are spent without any religious services.
Engaging with Other Faiths
Interestingly, the pandemic also introduced me to a different spiritual community. Through an old friend, I found myself spending more time with Jewish people and even attending Jewish events. Before the pandemic, I attended fewer Jewish religious services than Christian ones, but now the balance has shifted.
While I still believe in a God who loves us and roots for us, I no longer see Jesus as divine. My theological beliefs remain consistent, just interpreted through a lens of generalized theism. I am a generalized theist—a term I use humorously to describe someone who believes in a god but adheres to no specific religious doctrine.
Conclusion
As I stand at this crossroads, it’s clear that my religious identity is not fixed. It’s a fluid and evolving journey, shaped by personal experiences and changing beliefs. I am more of a generalized theist now, choosing to embrace a broader, more inclusive perspective on faith. This journey underscores the importance of personal belief and individual choice in the realm of religion.