Many researchers have suggested several explanations for the reasons people believe in religion. One possible explanation is that people develop their religious affiliation during their formative years. The reasons for this are varied, but parenting and cultural influences often play an important role. Many people grow up in a particular religion and tend to stick with it throughout their lives.
A spiritual path involves establishing a connection with an intangible power or essence that transcends our own life. The purpose of religious practice is to experience union with Christ or a higher power. This is the purpose of Christian mysticism. Many other forms of spirituality can be categorized as a form of religion.
Some religions have an inherent power to help us grow spiritually. They provide language, context, and a community to help us explore our personal and communal journeys. These practices are often informal and non-institutional in nature. But, many people find that these practices provide the necessary tools for a fulfilling spiritual life.
In addition, many people don’t belong to a particular religion. This group is called “spiritual but not religious.” Despite these differences, they are categorized as religiously disaffected. And, compared to those in the religiously inclined, they have more ambivalent views about religion than non-religious people. One-third of non-religious people still identify as spiritual.