Journeying Forward Toward Spiritual Freedom

For persons who wish to be guided by faith in God and who find Jesus to be an inspiring figure and who, at the same time, do not feel at home in their religious institution, this book offers helpful guidance. Journeying Forward Toward Spiritual Freedom acknowledges the fact that many of us are not fulfilled by a religious institutionalism which reflects an unhealthy emphasis upon doctrine and a moralistic/legalistic approach to ethics. Moreover, it offers an alternative view of spirituality which is rooted in Jesus' teaching as exemplified in his Great Commandment to love God and to love one's neighbor as oneself. Therefore, this book explores how one can move beyond the confines and limitations of religion which is reflected in many churches. However, recognizing the value of healthy religious institutions, the book calls the reader to consider whether one must reject the institution in searching for spirituality. The author believes that religion and spirituality need not to be adversarial alternatives and invites readers to consider them as complementary dimensions of a healthy-and sometimes tense-dynamic that challenges religion to become less a doctrinal head trip and more of a soul adventure into companionship with God and others while, on the other hand, offering to spirituality the challenge to become more structured and disciplined for the good of all persons of faith.