Houses of worship provide good sense of community

First, this is not a commentary about atheism versus faith, belief versus skepticism, or God versus no God. Timing being everything, the Freedom from Religion Foundation's annual conference runs Friday through Sunday . That conference juxtaposes itself against November and December -- months stuffed with holiday events that are resplendent with religious overtones, undertones, and tones of angels heard on high.

Spirituality, a primary buzzword these days, with individuals seeking after their own spirituality outside of or on the fringes of organized religion, isn't in the mix here, either.

This is, however, a commentary about the value of organized religion that does not run up to the gates of heaven, but rather to the portal of communities.

Organized religion is simply community. And community is one of the things organized religion does best. In an age typified by far-flung families, not knowing your neighbor, and being even less sure of who to trust, the house of worship levels the playing field of relationships. The experience brings people together who otherwise might never have the opportunity to meet, and through that meeting, discover new friendships.

The church, it turns out, is not so much in the community as the community is in the church.

The real value of that community, however, manifests itself when people are suddenly confronted with, for example, illness so sweeping in its visage that to face it square on would mean paralysis as galvanizing as the eyes of a cobra. Then, in all its power and sincerity, does the community within those walls extend itself to wrap individuals and families securely within its hallowed folds.

Far from mere platitudes inviting phone calls if you need something, communities of faith really do help in ways so compelling as to leave no one in doubt of a power of love far greater than any mere mortal could generate.

Maybe you have experienced that. Maybe you have not because you have not needed to. Maybe you need to, but are not part of that community, or any community, that can provide it for you, and provide it gladly, bringing with it hope and joy in the midst of absolute darkness.

Just don't let this freedom from religion thing rob you of community.

Do you absolutely need to believe to be part of such a community? Most likely not. Belief, if it is to be found in you, takes its own course and will, when it should, show up.

The most important thing is to become part of a good community, and houses of worship provide the best ones, bar none.

It costs you nothing but the time to show up. And who knows? What you now consider a cost could just be the best investment you ever made.

Michael J. Murschel is a church image consultant, grant writer, and spiritual director. He may be reached for comment at mjmurschelfeedback@gmail.com.