[alexasmyths]

Spirituality and Religion are not quite the same thing.

Even hearing Angels is not necessarily very religious (and of course, we may hear a lot of things with chemical help ...).

Spirituality is a personal, intellectual, possibly experiential thing.

Religion often entails cultural overhead, community, and generally a lot of work: those who have had the opportunity to 'see angels' have the responsibility of then promoting their new understanding in the world, living as examples to others yada yada, i.e. it's mostly hard work and heavy cross-bearing, i.e. 1% inspiration (seeing angels) and 99% perspiration (being a good person, which is hard).

[turc1656]

"Spirituality and Religion are not quite the same thing."

Exactly. I've been saying this for years to anyone who asks me if I'm religious. I say "no, but I am spiritual". I reject the notion that God takes attendance every Sunday and doesn't like me eating meat on Fridays. I also find zero need for organized religion. Spirituality is something different.

But, hey, if the religious thing works for other people, then have at it. It doesn't work for me, but maybe it does for them.

Spirituality doesn't require religion, just as getting in shape doesn't require a gym membership or a group class.

[alexasmyths]

"Spiritual but not religious"

Maybe you missed my point?

I'm kind of saying spirituality is easy, less practical part. :)

The 'work' of spirituality is hard. It's often done through religion.

Crazy point: those who 'religious and attend services' are least likely to commit crimes, but those who are 'spiritual but not religious' commit the most! Sorry no reference. Point being, we are creatures of habit, and action speaks louder than words.

I guess there is a lot of theological debate about whether or not it's more important to 'have faith' which is a matter of spirituality, or to 'go to church and be a good person' ...