As millions move away from traditional organised religion, the quest for spiritual and community connections has never been more pronounced. If you’re grappling with a departure from conventional faith structures, you’re not alone. Many are discovering solace in spiritual and secular communities that offer inclusivity and shared values.
Brad Ruggles, once a devoted evangelical pastor, faced a significant transformation when he stepped down from his role. Struggling with issues like LGBTQ inclusion and societal crises, he yearned for the brotherhood he once found in his congregation. His search led him to C3, an inclusive spiritual collective in Grand Haven, Michigan, which has redefined itself from its roots as Christ Community Church to become a sanctuary for the spiritually homeless.
Why Traditional Religion is Losing Ground
The decline in traditional religious affiliations is striking. In the early 1990s, 90% of Americans identified as Christian. By last year, that number had dropped to 63%. This shift is increasingly evident among younger generations and particularly affects Protestants, including the 60% who are evangelical. The rise of the “nones”—those identifying as agnostic, atheist, or with no particular religion—now stands at nearly 30%.
The Pew Research Center’s 2024 survey highlights that 80% of adults believe religion’s role in American life is diminishing. This trend is mirrored by the Southern Baptist Convention’s loss of over 2 million members since 2006. Researchers Jim Davis and Michael Graham estimate that around 40 million Americans have stopped attending church over the past 25 years.
The Quest for New Forms of Community
Despite the drop in traditional religious participation, the desire for community and spiritual exploration persists. For many, it’s not about abandoning spirituality but finding new avenues to connect. Here’s how various communities are meeting these needs:
1. Vinings Lake Church – Mableton, Georgia
Vinings Lake Church emerged from the decline of Vinings Lake Baptist. The church’s shift reflects a move away from rigid evangelicalism to a more inclusive spiritual collective. Under the leadership of Cody Deese, who embraced same-sex marriage and social justice issues, the church transformed into a community centred around spiritual exploration rather than doctrinal certainty.
Highlights:
- Transition from fundamentalist evangelical background to a broader spiritual perspective.
- Activities include meditation, music, and diverse readings.
- Emphasis on evolving spiritual values over dogmatic beliefs.
2. Awakenings – Houston, Texas
Awakenings serves those who feel their social justice values clash with traditional Christianity. Founded 19 years ago, this nondenominational community welcomes individuals from various faith backgrounds, focusing on inclusivity and self-care.
Features:
- Weekly online meetings and monthly in-person sessions.
- Open discussions about identity, faith, and justice.
- Focus on exploring wisdom from Christian traditions and beyond.
3. Aldea Spiritual Community – Tucson, Arizona
Aldea Spiritual Community redefined itself from a traditional evangelical church to a vibrant, inclusive spiritual community. It emphasises values over beliefs, drawing from multiple spiritual traditions to create a sense of belonging.
Notable Aspects:
- Embraces diverse spiritual journeys.
- Regular gatherings feature talks, music, and meditation.
- Designed as a communal space rather than a hierarchical church structure.
4. Heartway Church – Davie, Florida
Founded as a Southern Baptist plant, Heartway Church evolved into a contemplative community focused on love and openness. Danny Prada, the founder, emphasises exploring spirituality with uncertainty and inclusivity.
Key Points:
- Incorporates diverse teachings, including Sufi, Hindu, and Buddhist influences.
- Offers sessions like “Christian yoga” and therapeutic sound healing.
- Aims to connect individuals with their past faith traditions in a non-judgmental environment.
5. C3 Spiritual Community – Grand Haven, Michigan
C3 represents a transformative journey from a Reformed Church in America to a flexible spiritual community. It offers a space for those seeking meaning beyond traditional dogma.
Features:
- Focus on individual spiritual exploration within a supportive community.
- Average Sunday gatherings include discussions, music, and guest speakers from various faith traditions.
- Emphasises a modern approach to spirituality without rigid adherence to old doctrines.
Finding Your Spiritual Home
For those leaving traditional religious settings, these communities provide alternative paths to spirituality and connection. Whether you’re seeking a new way to express your faith or looking for a supportive group to navigate life’s challenges, the diversity of options available reflects the evolving landscape of spirituality.
Explore these communities and consider how they align with your journey. The move away from traditional religion doesn’t have to mean a loss of spiritual or communal connection. Instead, it can open doors to richer, more inclusive experiences that resonate with your values and beliefs.
