In this episode of Connection from Here, hosts Ashley and Michele Perry delve into the evolving landscape of spirituality and the shifting trends away from organized religion. Join us as we discuss the concept of being "spiritual but not religious" and explore the significant role that non-religious, clinically trained chaplains play in providing care and connection for those on this journey. Discover how chaplains are uniquely equipped to support individuals seeking meaning and purpose beyond traditional religious structures. Key Takeaways: Understanding the demographic shift towards a "spiritual but not religious" identity and its implications for modern society. The importance of finding connection and purpose outside of organized religious frameworks. How chaplains offer a compassionate, non-judgmental space for individuals to explore their spiritual journeys. The distinct differences between chaplains and pastors, and how chaplains provide care without imposing religious beliefs. Personal stories highlighting the impact and potential of chaplain care in various stages of life. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments below. We'd love to hear your perspective on this important conversation! Stay Connected: Website: https://www.gethopebase.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get_hopebase/ CHAPTER MARKERS: 00:00 The Role of Non-Religious Chaplains in Today’s World 04:24 Reevaluating exclusionary belief systems. 09:15 A chaplain’s role in understanding diverse beliefs. 10:59 How chaplains meet you where you are and where you find meaning. 15:08 A personal story of connecting with someone as a hospice chaplain. 19:09 The need to increase access to this chaplain care model. 23:24 How chaplains guide an individual’s personal spiritual journey. 24:46 The gifts that chaplains provide. 27:33 Naming your emotions to reduce their power.

Join Michele Perry and Ashley Perry as they explore the evolving concept of community in modern society. In this enlightening episode of "Connection from Here," we delve into the significance of finding genuine connection and purpose beyond solitary pursuits of happiness. Discover key insights about the power of relationships, the meaning of community, and how to truly belong in a world that's constantly changing. Key Takeaways: *The historical meaning of community and its transformation in modern times. *The importance of genuine connections beyond superficial "communities." *Insights from former Surgeon General Vivek Murthy on the loneliness epidemic and the role of purpose in true community. *The distinction between friendship and community and the unique roles each plays in our lives. *The importance of being your true self in a community that values inclusion and purpose. *How the care model of non-religious chaplains inspires genuine community building. *Practical tips for reflecting and validating in conversations to foster deeper connections. Links Referenced: New York Times- Ruth Whippman 2017 "Happiness is Other People" https://www.nytimes.com/2017/10/27/opinion/sunday/happiness-is-other-people.html Former surgeon general Dr. Vivek Murthy's key elements of community: https://www.acofp.org/news-and-publications/blogs/acofp-voice/2025/02/21/parting-prescription-from-us-surgeon-general-dr.-vivek-murthy New York Times- Carina Chocano 2018 "What Good is Community When Someone Else Makes All the Rules?" https://www.nytimes.com/2018/04/17/magazine/what-good-is-community-when-someone-else-makes-all-the-rules.html Podcast: The Double Shift https://www.everand.com/podcast/827356851/The-Crucial-Differences-Between-Community-and-Friendship-Explained-Audio Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor https://www.crisistextline.org/ Stay Connected: Website: https://www.gethopebase.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get_hopebase/ CHAPTER MARKERS: CHAPTER MARKERS: 00:00 The Essential Elements Of True Community 06:35 Community Over Solitude 07:46 Isolation Through Individualism 12:21 Caring Community Connections 15:36 Modern Community and Connection Challenges 17:46 Modern Isolation in Mobile Society 23:26 Chaplains: Model of Compassionate Community 27:03 Reflecting and Validating Feelings 28:16 Grateful Acknowledgment of Connection

In this inaugural episode of Connection From Here, hosts Ashley Perry and Michele Perry delve into the profound impact of the loneliness epidemic on both physical and mental health. Key Takeaways: *Discover startling statistics, such as the 50% of Americans who report daily loneliness, and the potential health risks linked to isolation. *Explore the role of technology and the decline of in-person interactions in this digital age. *Uncover how shifts away from traditional religious communities have left many searching for new forms of connection. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of the human need for community and belonging, and a call to build new spaces for meaning and togetherness. Tune in to learn how we can foster a sense of belonging in our modern world. Don't miss the upcoming episodes, where we'll continue to unravel the complexities of our quest for connection. Subscribe now for more engaging discussions on building caring communities and finding purpose beyond religion. Links Referenced: [NPR] America has a loneliness epidemic. Here are 6 steps to address it: https://www.npr.org/2023/05/02/1173418268/loneliness-connection-mental-health-dementia-surgeon-general [Pew Research] Spirituality Among Americans: https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/2023/12/07/spirituality-among-americans/ [The Atlantic] The True Cost of the Churchgoing Bust: https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2024/04/america-religion-decline-non-affiliated/677951/ Stay Connected: Website: https://www.gethopebase.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get_hopebase/ CHAPTER MARKERS: 00:00 Creating Community After Leaving Religion: New Paths to Connection 01:02 The Impact of The Loneliness Epidemic 05:25 Loneliness from Declining Involvement in Religious Organizations 08:45 Family Tension Caused by Religious Departure 10:28 Growing Up in Progressive Christianity 13:57 Faith in Action: Advocating (or Failing To Advocate) For Justice 16:53 Our Story of Stepping Away from Religion 21:38 The Value of Community in Religion 25:00 Rebuilding Community in Religion 27:03 Spirituality Beyond Religion 30:27 Showing Empathy and Leaving Space to Share Feelings