In a world where religious institutions often promote discrimination, marginalization, and violence, it is no wonder that many people have turned away from organized religion.
For those who still find meaning and solace in their faith, what happens when they are forced to leave behind all that was familiar and start anew in a foreign land? How can they rebuild communities without the support of traditional religious structures? This is the question explored in "Exiled Believers: Creating Community Outside Institutional Religion," a new book by sociologist Dr. Jillian Schroeder.
According to Schroeder's research, exile can be a time of great transformation for believers. It forces them to reexamine their relationship with God and their community, and to rethink how they express their faith in a secular society. In this process, some create new forms of spirituality that are more open and inclusive than before.
Many refugees form informal prayer groups or study circles that welcome all members regardless of background. Others build support networks around shared values and interests rather than religious dogma.
Schroeder also found that exiles often look outside the church for community. Some join political activist groups, while others turn to social service organizations. Many connect with other diaspora groups through cultural events, music festivals, or sports leagues. These non-religious activities provide opportunities for friendship, connection, and belonging, but they do not replace the deep sense of community that comes from worshiping together.
Schroeder notes that building new communities takes time and effort. It requires developing trust and understanding among people from diverse backgrounds. And it means navigating complex issues like language barriers and cultural differences. As one exile told her, "It's not easy to make friends when you don't speak the same language as everyone else."
Despite these challenges, many exiles find joy and strength in their new communities. They may even discover new ways of practicing their faith that are more authentic and meaningful than before. As one woman said, "I feel closer to God now than I ever did in my old life."
So what can we learn from the experiences of exiled believers? According to Schroeder, their stories remind us that community is more than just a place - it is a state of being, an experience that happens between individuals who care about each other. And it can be created anywhere, by anyone, if they have the courage to reach out and connect.
How do exiled believers reimagine community outside institutional religion?
Exiled believers have a unique opportunity to reimagine what it means to be part of a spiritual community when they are not part of an organized religious group. Instead of seeking out a specific church or synagogue that meets their needs, they can create their own communities based on shared values and beliefs. This may involve gathering with other exiles for prayer, study, or service projects, or simply finding ways to connect with others who share similar spiritual practices and perspectives.