As a teenager, I chose a church that became and still are the roots of faith and spiritual life. It shaped my early adulthood and led me to train as a teacher and youth minister, eager to share the love of God and help others discover their own spiritual home.
In my late twenties, when my marriage dissolved, that same church began to feel less welcoming. Whispers, the silent treatment and an unrenewed contracts made me realize I no longer belonged. For a long time, I carried this pain quietly, reluctant to share my story, grieving the loss of connection.
Spirit guided me onto a wider path. Zen meditation taught me silence, Buddhism opened me to compassion, the mysticism of Judaism and Islam revealed new layers of God’s mystery, and time in nature reminded me of the goodness woven into creation itself. Each step whispered: you are enough.
I have attempted to “reconnect” and “re-engage” only to face rejection again as I followed my heart’s path and embraced my evolving spirituality. Through it all, spiritual direction became a safe and sacred space to hold these questions and experiences, grieve what was lost, and trust that God’s love had never left me. Slowly, I realized that my belonging is not dependent on any one community but rests in the infinite embrace of the Divine. It rests in a felt sense and a knowing that rejection is not about me but about them. I admit that it isn’t easy to let go.
If you, too, have felt turned away by the church you once called home, know that you are not alone. Spiritual direction and/or spiritual coaching* offer a gentle, confidential space to be seen and heard, to explore your questions, and to listen to Spirit’s guidance in your life. There is a place for you at God’s table—however and wherever you seek it. You are welcome. You are enough. Always.
If you haven’t experienced a disconnection or judgement from your faith community, and want to deepen your spiritual connection with God, I am available to hold a non-judgmental and safe space for you to seek and explore. You, too, are welcome.
Blessings ~ Christy
(**Spiritual direction is not therapy and I am not a therapist nor is it business or life coaching. I don’t tell you what to do! Spiritual direction allows YOU to discover the answers to your questions you already have within you. I create spaces for deep listening, creativity, and gentle presence helping people to reconnect or in some cases, connect with what matters most.)