Before I start, can I ask you guys to share your definition of Religion?

So when we say Religion, especially to Christians, we think about God, faith, worship, rituals, churches,
and fellowship. So religion sounds very simple right but there’s a problem.

People have different definitions of religion, and no one can agree well what a religion really is. If I were
to ask you what religion is, which already happened, some stated that it is a “blank bank”. So we can see
how many people have different ideas of what religion is.

Therefore, we can say that defining religion is complex.

So Religion is made up of 3 ASPECTS – these aspects are the pillars that create any religion or belief
system.

1. Spiritual Aspect - The spiritual aspect of religion pertains to an individual's connection with the
divine or a higher power, seeking meaning, and understanding of existence. It involves practices
such as prayer, meditation, and rituals aimed at achieving enlightenment, inner peace, or a sense
of transcendence. For example, in Buddhism, meditation is a spiritual practice used to gain
insight and attain Nirvana.

o In Christianity, the spiritual aspect involves cultivating a personal relationship with God
through prayer, worship, and devotion. For example, Christians may experience a
profound sense of connection and spiritual fulfillment through participating in
contemplative prayer, where they seek communion with God in silence and reflection,
deepening their faith and sense of divine presence.
(basically, this aspect is all about having or building a relationship with God)

2. Personal Aspect – The personal aspect of religion includes the individual's internal beliefs,
values, and moral principles influenced by their faith. It shapes one's identity, ethical decision-
making, and personal growth.

The personal aspect of religion is about what someone believes inside themselves and how those
beliefs affect their actions and decisions. For example, Christians might try to be kind and
forgiving in their daily life because they follow Jesus' teachings, which are important to them.

3. Social Aspect - The social aspect of religion encompasses the communal and cultural practices
that bring individuals together, fostering a sense of belonging and community. It involves
participation in religious services, festivals, and communal activities that strengthen social
bonds.

An example is the Born-Again practice of gathering for communal prayers at the church.

So this brings us to our practice of religion,

THE PRACTICE OF RELIGION

The practice of religion may include rites, rituals, worship, sacrifices, fiestas, trances, and culture. It is
more limited than belief since this would influence other individuals.

Religion involves things people do together, like prayers, ceremonies, and celebrations. These are called
religious practices. They're more like group activities that show people's beliefs. For example, going to
church on Sundays is a religious practice. Beliefs, on the other hand, are what individuals personally
think or feel about life and the world around them.

Imagine someone who believes in God and thinks it's important to worship and show gratitude to God.
That's their belief. To express this belief, they might go to a church and ask in prayer to God to give them
confidence in sharing the word and preach the word to other believers through fellowship or grouping.
Or sometimes, like us born-again Christians we go to campuses and reach out to students which is the
new generation to share the gospel. So, our beliefs influence our religious practices.

I have a question, is religion necessary or not?

Religion is often considered necessary because it provides individuals with a sense of purpose,
community, and moral guidance.

However, it can also be viewed as unnecessary when it leads to conflict, intolerance, and division among
people of different beliefs.

Ultimately, the necessity of religion is subjective and depends on individual perspectives.

But personally, para sa akin Religion is not necessary because I believe that religion can’t save you. Good
works can’t save you. Being nice, generous or kind can’t save you. Because we are saved by grace
through faith in Christ Jesus and not by our own efforts or works. It is Grace Alone and Faith Alone.

Rebecca Stein (2011) defined religion as a set of cultural beliefs and practices that usually include
some or all of the basic characteristics. These characteristics include:

1. A belief in spirit and gods- an anthropomorphic being.

2. A focus on the sacred supernatural, where sacred refers to the dedication to a religious purpose
and so deserving veneration; a feeling of reverence and awe.
3. The influence of divine force or power found in spiritual entities, human creatures, and objects
as well.
4. Performing ceremonial practices involving manipulating holy artifacts to interact with divine
forces and/or shaping or regulating events.
5. Articulation of worldview and moral codes by beliefs and through other means.
6. Provide the formation and preservation of social relations and social control systems within a
society; provide a reason for the unclear and offer individuals a sense of control.
Belief in spirit and gods: Anthropomorphism is a representation of a deity, spirit, or supernatural entity
that possesses human-like characteristics. This characteristic entails the acceptance of anthropomorphic
deities or spiritual beings as part of a religious worldview. For instance, in Greek mythology, the belief in
gods like Zeus and Athena shaped cultural practices and rituals.

Focus on the sacred supernatural: It involves reverence for supernatural realms or entities deemed
sacred within a religious context. In Christianity, the Eucharist ceremony is seen as very special and
important, making believers feel a deep sense of respect and wonder.

Influence of divine force or power: In Shintoism, people believe that natural things like
trees and rocks contain special spirits called kami. Kami is a spirit that is honored and
respected para ma-maintain nila ang harmony and receive blessings.

Performing ceremonial practices: It encompasses rituals and ceremonies.

Articulation of worldview and moral codes: In Islam, The Five Pillars of Islam serve as the fundamental
acts of worship and submission for Muslims, guiding their faith and practice. They provide a framework
for spiritual and moral conduct, as well as the foundation for a Muslim's relationship with Allah.

1. Shahada (Faith)
2. Salah (Prayer)
3. Zakat (Charity)
4. Sawm (Fasting)
5. Hajj (Pilgrimage)

Formation and preservation of social relations:

In medieval Europe, the Catholic Church played a central role in organizing and governing society. It
influenced not only religious matters but also aspects of politics, education, and even daily life. For
example, the Church was responsible for running schools, providing charity to the poor, and resolving
disputes through its legal system. It also had significant political power, with the pope often having
authority over kings and emperors. As a result, the Church's influence extended to all levels of society,
making it a key institution in medieval European life.