After analyzing the transcripts, we found that a majority of parents consider spirituality as different from religion. At the same time, many parents also acknowledged that spirituality is informed by religious experiences and teaching. Parents said that through their children’s involvement with religion, they are provided with the tools necessary to be spiritual. Furthermore, most parents (again, there was not consensus on this issue) believe spirituality to be an innate force which exists in everyone.
When asked to explain their understanding of spirituality and religion, parents responded that:
“Spiritual is the inner person. Religion is the outer person but they are linked.”
(Malta)
“So I think spirituality is when you are able to take the—in my opinion—good things in
your religion and be able to distill it and try to practice it. That’s what I feel is
“spirituality.”
(United States)
“As for spirituality, it is a world unity concept. It is not exclusive and not divided by any sects; it is not limited to some very strict religious doctrine. So it is more humanized. This is the innate difference.” (China)
“As for the spiritual, it is one hundred percent from within him.”
(Syria).
“There is an underlying need in everyone to be spiritual and to grow. Spirituality isn’t always connected to Christianity. Someone might believe in God but he doesn’t necessarily go to church. This is someone who is very vulnerable to be affected by others. Children who are still searching carry many uncertainties within their hearts.”
(South Africa)
Although there may not be consensus on the relationship between religion and spirituality, parents find spirituality to be an innate and an important part of their child’s lives.
