...Reflection #7 Religion and spirituality is a subject that I have been conflicted with since freshman year. What does it mean to be spiritual and now religious? My grandma, a devout Pentecostal, considers it “sinner doing what they like and thinking they can enter the kingdom.” For such a long time, I thought she was right. How can one ignore religion but still feel some level of spiritual connection? As I have traveled along this college journey, I have begun to question my faith and even scrutinize it. The same things that I thought that were inherently un-debatable are now up for discussion. Many of them revolve around women and sexuality. Growing up in a Pentecostal background, the way I viewed women were more on a level of high respect and dignity according to standard principle and reflection. It was not in good taste to see a women make more than her husband or lead the household. It was looked down upon to see women wear pants or act out in a very flamboyant or bold manner that drew abnormal amounts of attention. Women, in many ways were seen as the strong supporting cast role in a film that seems to spotlight the leading male performance. For most of my life, I was groomed to be this leading man and that often shaped how I viewed the role of women. Marriage was to be something that was expected, otherwise there would be no discussion of love or sex or children. “A man is worse than an infidel if he does not take care of his children,” my elders used to preach. I...
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...Vincent Coughlin PATHE 200 Final Project Spring/15 RELIGION AND SPIRITUALITY IN MEDICINE THESIS STATEMENT: Patients with multiple religious beliefs are treated everyday by emergency care workers which creates a void in respect towards the patient and their beliefs if the proper training and knowledge are lacking. INTRODUCTION When the subject of religion and spirituality come up in conversation in the governmental arena most people will argue that they are both on separate planes and should remain that way. But when people were asked if there is a place for religion in the medical field, the majority of those asked will say that they would prefer their physicians inquire about their individual faith and beliefs. In fact, polls indicate that the U.S. Population is highly religious; that most people believe in Heaven and hell. The same people also believe in the healing power of prayer and the capacity of faith to aid in the recovery from disease (N.E.J.O.M. 342). Religion and Spirituality have become an intricate part of patient care in the last 20 plus years. Religion is understood as a set of beliefs, rituals and practices usually embodied within an institution or an organization. Religion is more generalized and all-inclusive. Spirituality is more defined and specific to each individuals Religion. Spirituality is thought of as a search for what is sacred in life, one’s deepest values, along with a relationship with God...
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...Despite its central importance in lives of people all over the world religion and spirituality are often largely absent from management education and management textbooks. However, there is growing acknowledgement of the significance of religion, spirituality and the related concepts of ethics and values for people working in organisations. The preconceptions that people bring about organisations, about wealth creation, about authority and leadership and about the capacity of organisations to contribute to social change - whether for good or ill - are, for many , profoundly influenced by their religious traditions. These traditions can be a source of enormous creativity, for example in Confucian approaches to management, studies of leadership based on Hindu ethics, the enduring influences of Quaker philanthropy, the interest in the potential of spiritual practices such as meditation for managing stress at work to name but a few examples. However, as people are increasingly brought into contact with traditions that are very different to their own, there is also potential for conflict and intolerance. The examples of increasing intolerance towards people of the Islamic faith in the UK and US since 9/11; increasing tensions between Christians and Hindus in India and the resurgance of anti-Semitism in Europe are evidence of the difficulties societies face in creating productive working relationships across different communities. It is essentail that managers working in multi-cultural...
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...Spirituality in Counseling Integrating Religion and Spirituality In Counseling Anntoni Leonard University of the Cumberlands COUN 636 Abstract Religion and spirituality are arguably among the most important factors which structure human experience, beliefs, values and behavior. Religion and spirituality are clearly important to most Americans; however, most counselors have little or no training in dealing with religious and spiritual issues. Since the mid-1990’s, the integration of spirituality and religion into therapeutic sessions has generated much interest as an area that needs to be addressed with regards to diversity in clients. This paper will address the inclusion of religion and spirituality in client’s session and counselor’s attitudes toward a client’s faith based on the assumption that the client’s faith and the counselor’s attitude can have significant impact on the outcome of the treatment of the client. A counselor’s willingness to attend to faith as a means of growth can build rapport and lessen potential resistance with clients who are religious (Worthington, 1989). Spirituality in Counseling: Integrating Religion and Spirituality Spirituality has become increasingly important in counseling and prayer has become the spiritual intervention of choice for Christian counselors, as well as secular counselors. The controversial nature of including prayer in counseling requires much consideration on the grounds of ethical boundaries. Majority of mental health...
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...Spirituality affects one’s everyday life. Happiness, a sense of fulfillment, self-worth, and even physical and mental health are all affected by one’s spiritual health. So of course many would wonder where dos the spirituality supposedly comes from and how do you control or get in touch with it. There are many different aspects of spirituality and it affects everyone differently. What is spirituality? A denoted definition of the word spirituality would say that it is the experience of connection to self, others, and the community at large, providing a sense of purpose and meaning. It is the connectedness spawning from personal values and beliefs. Together, all of these factors affect who someone is as a person, how someone chooses between good and bad, and what is even considered good or bad. Commitment in spirituality can even increase positiveness in one’s physical and mental health. Physically, there is a lower chance of acquiring depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, substance abuse. Mental benefits from being spiritual are being more forgiving, loving, compassionate, and even coping with sudden life changes. The most complex and controversial part of spirituality is differing it from religion and could you have one without the other. According to research and professional studies, spirituality actually derived from religion. “The difference between spirituality and religion is the freedom to choose your own path towards enlightenment.” Many believe religion...
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...Inventory The concept of spirituality is a part of the human experience and encompasses the search for meaning in life. It is a sense that there is a power greater than ourselves and it connects us to each other and other creatures. Spirituality is about seeking a meaningful connection with something bigger than yourself, which can result in positive emotions, such as peace, awe, contentment, gratitude, and acceptance ("Spirituality," n.d.). Philosophically the search for spirituality encompasses asking the questions “Who, what and why are we, what is my purpose and where did I come from?” ("Spirituality," n.d.). Some people seek the answers to these questions through their religion while others find them through art or nature. Sociology’s definition of spirituality is based on the study of relationships where people influence other people. Sociology describes spirituality as spiritual practices, rituals, and social morality of a group of people (Seaward, 2013, p. 34). Thus sociology would encompass the idea of religious pluralism. Religious pluralism is the concept that no one religion is the way to god. Rather it recognizes that there are religions other than Christianity that seek to commune with god ("Pluralism," n.d.). The ecumenical concept has only recently become part of western culture ("Pluralism," n.d.). People perceive their lives through the lens of their experiences based on their cultural and spiritual background. Spirituality and scientism to the writer...
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...Spirituality is about the concept of soul that deals with issues of inner beliefs and feelings. It included a belief in a power operating in the universe that is greater than oneself and an awareness of the purpose and meaning of life and the development of personal plus absolute values. In another word, it is the way you find hope, comfort, meaning and inner peace in your life. Some examples of the characteristics of spirituality would be the acts of compassion and selflessness, altruism, and the experience of inner peace. (Spirituality, n.d.) Religion is defined as the human quest for, experience of, and response to the holy and sacred. In religion, the religious expressions are in thought – the intellectual expression, in action – the practical expression, and in fellowship – the communal expression. These are also known as the ways that universal human activity expresses itself. (What is religion?, n.d.) Secularism is a wider view to the world that assures the independence in connection with all its strengths, qualities, values and behavior towards all sects, religion and other spiritual actions. Apparently, there are 3 different historical types of secularism - secularism that is against, secularism that is compliance too, and secularism that is bias towards religion. (What is secularism, n.d.) Although spirituality and religion have their own definition, but the truth is both of them are actually closely associated with each other. However, we often heard people said...
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...Health & religion as social determinants of health: (Summary) In 1946 the WHO (world Health Organisation) introduced a new public health paradigm which concentrated on health as being holistic approach explaining the complete state off wellness is to be “Physically, emotionally, socially and spiritually” healthy. There have been many literature articulated by sociologist regarding the aspect off religion and spirituality influence or effect on health of individuals lives. Spirituality often described being more fluid, eclectic and individualised than religion in which religion is often highlighted as structural and formal and embedded in tradition and doctrine. However there are differing perspectives and one may be religious but not spiritual and vice versa. Case study: positive impact of religious & spiritual practices. One case study undertaken in one Sydney hospital revealed that approximately 80% of interviewees claimed rituals can help when they are sick due to support, strength, relaxation and guidance it offers the human being. Cases of societal tension based on religion, spirituality and health: Although there are many positive aspects accompanying religion/spirituality with health, there have been cases of societal tension. Such events include: • The avoidance of immunisation of children from parents with fundamental religion and philosophical background. Within contemporary society there have been great emphasis on minoring...
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...Spirituality in Nursing: Where Do I Fit In? Abstract Spirituality has many definitions. For some it is a belief in a greater power, a sense of being connected with all living things, or the development of values. For others it is the way to find peace and comfort for their lives. Spirituality is an important component of the care provided to patients by health care providers. Before spiritual care can be given the provider must understand the patient’s spiritual needs. However, this is not always possible due to barriers that arise. Spirituality in Nursing: Where Do I Fit In? Spirituality has many definitions. For some it is a belief in a greater power, a sense of being connected with all living things, and the development of values. For others it is the way to find peace and comfort for their lives. Spirituality is often associated with religion, and some say they develop their spirituality through music, art, or by connecting with nature. Others say they find spirituality through acts of compassion and selflessness. One’s religion is different than spirituality (Munoz-Garcia, 2008). Religion is beliefs and behaviors based on religious traditions or denominations. If a nurse does not understand the difference, the patient’s spiritual needs may be neglected. History Spirituality in healthcare dates back to the earliest of times. Some of the earliest images date back to approximately 7,000 years ago. These images portrayed the nourishment and protection...
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...and abstract, forming a definition is not a challenge; however the question, “What is ‘religion’?” has spurred millions upon millions of definitions from countless people who can be divided into two categories; insider or outsider. In Gary Kessler’s book, Studying Religion, Kessler does not preach his own views of religion; instead he teaches readers how to be a sympathetic outsider, while studying the practices and religion of an insider, among many other aspects that make up the foundation of religion. After reading portions of Kessler’s book, I would confidently say that although I do not incorporate a religion into my personal life, Kessler’s writings have influenced me to become a better student of the aspects of religion that he writes about, including sacred power and spirituality as well. If you had asked me to define religion ten years ago, I would have said that I was a Christian, I go to church at my school every Friday, and that I believe that Jesus Christ gave his life for my sins. It seems like a very standard response, albeit it does not necessarily answer the question, but more importantly is the context of my answer. Throughout my young adulthood, from kindergarten till sixth grade, my parents put me in private, Christian schools to get my education. Because of this, I incorporated school with religion and vice versa, so I guess you could say that I never found religion independently, nor did I...
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...Topic: Religion vs. Spirituality Controlling Questions: Can you be spiritual without being religious? What role does God have on your soul and the cultivation of your soul? Working Bibliography "CHRISTIAN READER." 'CHRISTIAN READER' N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Oct. 2013. The Holy Bible: New International Version. Colorado Springs, CO: International Bible Society, 1984. Print. Infoplease. Infoplease, n.d. Web. 29 Oct. 2013. McSwain, Steve. "Why Christianity Is Dying While Spirituality Is Thriving." The Huffington Post. TheHuffingtonPost.com, 10 Oct. 2012. Web. 29 Oct. 2013. Michaelson, Jay. God in Your Body: Kabbalah, Mindfulness and Embodied Spiritual Practice. Woodstock, VT: Jewish Lights Pub., 2007. Print. "Religion vs. Spirituality." About.com Agnosticism / Atheism. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Oct. 2013. "Religion vs Spirituality." Religion vs Spirituality. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Oct. 2013. "Religious vs. Spiritual: Study Says the Truly 'spiritual but Not Religious' Are Hard to Find." DeseretNews.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Oct. 2013. Scougal, Henry, and Robert Leighton. The Life of God in the Soul of Man, Or, The Nature and Excellency of the Christian Religion. Baltimore [Md.: Edward J. Coale, 1810. Print. "Soul." CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA:. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Oct. 2013. "Soul (religion and Philosophy)." Encyclopedia Britannica Online. Encyclopedia Britannica, n.d. Web. 29 Oct. 2013. "Spiritual, But Not Religious." - Beliefnet.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Oct. 2013. Spirituality and Religion...
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...Spirituality in the Workplace ABSTRACT In this paper I will attempt to study and understand the need for spirituality in the workplace. Workplace Spirituality is awareness, interconnectedness with one another and a higher existence, a sense of fulfilment, and value and meaning to one’s calling. Spirituality in organizations is an area gaining increasing popularity. The growing interest, however, is on how spirituality improves organizational performance, and the impact of spiritual influences in a workplace. Introduction: In today society’s organizations want their employees to be able to come to work and manage their emotions while working with coworkers and customers. However, employees are constantly under stress which may reduce the effectiveness of his or her work ethics. Workplace spirituality is the method of incorporating one’s personal idea of “spirituality” in their daily work schedule. Spirituality can give employees a sense of balance and security and therefore improve their organizational efficiency and effectiveness. With spiritualty now incorporating itself in to the workplace it is helping the organization enhance its performance and increase the development of business ethics. The importance of a business to incorporate spirituality within the workplace will continue to influence the culture of business in the anticipated future. What is Spirituality? Webster’s College Dictionary defines spirituality as the quality or “state of being...
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...Human Spirituality Professor Jan P. Hatcher 1/17/12 What is Human Spirituality? People from all over the world take a moment each and every day to reflect upon their certain religion. These practices can consist of going to church, watching television, or simply saying a quick prayer just before the person goes to bed. Human Spirituality inspires people’s everyday day life. There are about 20 major religions studied in today’s society. Human Spirituality is known as the inner path that allows a person to discover his or her well being. Spiritual practices can be done through prayer, meditation, and contemplation. Believing in a specific religion allows one to devote themselves to that specific religion. All of their faith and dedication turns to that special god or leader. In times of dire need, humans can turn to their faith to help them overcome certain hardships in their lives. As a believer in Catholicism, I myself, always turn to God in situations in which I feel as If I may have a chance of failing in. Before a big game, I will kneel down in the corner of the locker room and ask our lord to be there with me throughout the game. There’s nothing better than having someone to turn to for help or guidance, at any hour of the day. Human Spirituality has been known to cleanse the soul of stressors and nerves. Human Spirituality is not a necessity in today’s world. People can choose to either partake or not partake in a certain religion practice. Human Spirituality allows...
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...Assessment Evaluation Spirituality has been part of nursing from its’ infancy. Initially, nursing care of the sick, was provided by monks as part of a religious order. Florence Nightingale who is credited with revolutionizing modern nursing was said to have chose the profession, because God called her to serve (Nursing-Theory.org, n.d.). Nightingale was the first to revolutionize this thought process, as she realized that healing was holistic, and even involved the patient’s environment. As a result, our profession now recognizes the need to treat the patient holistically, to include the patient’s spirituality. Two examples of assessment tools that assess spirituality are the HOPE assessment tool and the FICA spiritual assessment tool. The HOPE assessment tool uses the acronym to remember all elements of the assessment. H stands for hope, O stands for the patient’s organized religion. P stands for personal spirituality, and E stands for end of life decisions (LaRocca-Pitts, 2009). The FICA spiritual tool acronym stands for Faith or belief, Importance of the patient’s spirituality, their individual spiritual community, and Addressing spirituality (Borneman, Ferrell, & Puchalski, 2010). The author believes that patient spirituality should be assessed immediately in order to ensure holistic care, so a new spiritual assessment tool called, “RAPID” was developed. The RAPID assessment tool acronym is representative of important elements of spirituality so the healthcare...
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...Spirituality and Prayer Christian Spirituality and What is Spirituality and Where is it Found? The Catholic and Christian stance on the idea of spirituality states that spirituality is something that is mainly related to religion and that there are different ways to go about forming a spiritual tradition. Not everyone will experience a sense of spirituality the same way. Some people have a life changing experience; some reveal it through an artistic expression, while others have already been accustomed to it from previous generations. I realized that the Christians also see spirituality as a way of discipleship. It is through this discipleship that you will come to realize that this is “the way” you lead a Christ-centered life. It seems that Christians use discipleship and spirituality hand-in-hand. Although I personally believe that while spirituality can be found within in a religion, it does not always have to be associated with one. Spirituality and prayer are two different things; spirituality does not always pertain to a God or some kind of higher being. However, according to Johannes Metz, Metz says that, “Every attempt to know him [i.e. Christ], to understand him, is therefore always a journey a following…Following Christ is therefore not just a subsequent application of the church’s Christology to our life; the practice of following Christ is itself a central part of Christology…In this sense every Christology is subject to the primary practice” (12). The Church...
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