Spiritual but not religious

A growing number of people today describe themselves as being spiritual but not religious.  They acknowledge the need to find purpose, meaning, hope and love in life (spiritual needs) but refuse to join a community of faith (religious institution) commanded by a Higher Power (God).  Are spirituality and religion opposed to one another?  Can anyone find the meaning of his life outside of a church community?  Today’s gospel explores that question.

That Gospel presents the touching parable of the prodigal son: the need of freedom (autonomy) on the one hand, and the resentment of making room for or living with others (community) on the other hand.  This parable constitutes one of the peaks of spirituality in literature of all time.  Jesus invites us to trust in the Father’s infinite mercy and to return home (community) with hearts purified by repentance.  Through the sacraments of Penance and the Eucharist, may we grow in sorrow for our sins and discover anew the Father’s loving embrace.  Upon you and your families I invoke God’s Blessings of joy and peace.  I wish you all a good Sunday.