A woman from Tennessee has expressed her struggle with returning to church after a long absence. After regularly attending services throughout her upbringing, she stopped attending about 15 years ago during a challenging period when her father was ill. Now, after a breakup that occurred 2.5 years ago, she finds herself contemplating her faith and the necessity of church attendance.
The woman, who identifies herself as twice-divorced and without children, recalls her upbringing by deeply religious parents who instilled in her a strong foundation of faith. Despite her ongoing belief in God, she has found herself making excuses to avoid returning to church, citing reasons such as feeling too tired after work, enjoying time at home with her pets, and struggling to wake up early on Sundays.
Seeking Clarity on Guilt and Belief
In her correspondence, she questions whether her guilt about not attending church stems from her upbringing or if it is a genuine need to reconnect with her faith community. She wonders if it could be perceived as a sin not to attend services, given the varying doctrines among different religious denominations.
Abigail Van Buren, known for the advice column “Dear Abby,” responded to her concerns by emphasizing that motivations for attending church differ widely among individuals. Some people attend services for community, others for the sense of obligation, and some simply enjoy the sermons. Van Buren pointed out that while some denominations may consider it a sin to miss church, the decision should ultimately be personal and based on an individual’s needs.
“If you believe in God and read a daily devotion every morning, it may be enough for you,” Van Buren advised, suggesting that personal faith does not solely rely on formal church attendance.
Reflecting on Spiritual Practices
The woman’s situation highlights a broader trend of individuals reevaluating their relationships with organized religion, particularly in the context of modern life and personal circumstances. Many find themselves balancing traditional beliefs with contemporary lifestyle choices. For this Tennessee resident, her journey reflects the ongoing exploration of faith, community, and personal spirituality.
This discussion raises important questions about the role of faith in daily life and how individuals navigate their spiritual paths outside of traditional frameworks. As more people reflect on their beliefs and practices, the dialogue surrounding the necessity of church attendance continues to evolve.
Readers can engage with “Dear Abby” and submit their own questions through the official website or by mail. The column, which was created by Pauline Phillips and is now written by her daughter Jeanne Phillips, remains a popular platform for seeking advice on personal matters.
