As an adult, I’ve never really considered myself a religious person – I do however, consider myself to be more of a spiritual person. Maybe that’s “trendy” of me, but it’s how I have felt for a long time.

I struggle internally sometimes with things in the name of religion…. this has been a very private battle I have had with my testimony for years. Do I believe every.single.thing I hear at church?

No, I actually don’t.

There have been times I have left feeling frustrated and confused. However, I don’t always view religion as a negative thing.

In my experience, there can be so much joy, peace, and love in religion.

I participate and volunteer in my church community because it changes my experience. I’m buoyed up and I find I’m not alone. I believe in religious freedom, which *I feel* has kind of been taken away from me this past year.

I’ve missed meeting with my church community and being uplifted by them. I’ve missed their warmth, their stories, testimonies and love. They lift me up and strengthen me.

I’m grateful for this time I have had to reflect over the past six months on what my church community means to me, and what my testimony in God and my Savior is.

I am strengthened and continue to learn so much. I’m grateful I have religious freedom to worship how I please. I will continue to pray and seek personal revelation for my own answers and build my personal relationship with Christ.

But today, being among friends and seeing my community who I love at church (we sat every other pew with masks) on lifted me up so much. So grateful for this beautiful Sunday back in the chapel. 💒

Thanks for being here and hearing what’s on my heart.

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