Photo by Ksenia Chernaya

Tony Antonellis is the author of For the Love of God, a God-centered book with inspirational lessons to help society welcome God in the public space again.

Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God.

– John 8:47

In a world that has become increasingly divided by ideology and belief, the question of God remains a potent source of tension and misunderstanding. From the rise of religious extremism to the decline of organized religion in the West, the way we navigate the topic of God in the public is more important than ever.

Here’s why open conversations about God are essential:

• Understanding Each Other: In a pluralistic society, respectful dialogue about differing beliefs is crucial for building bridges and fostering empathy. It allows us to step outside our own echo chambers and appreciate the diverse tapestry of human experience.
• Navigating Conflict: When left unspoken, disagreements about God in the public can fester and escalate into violence or social division. Open dialogue provides a platform to examine these differences rationally and constructively, seeking common ground and finding solutions.
• Personal Growth: Engaging with different perspectives on God can challenge our own assumptions and deepen our understanding of ourselves and the world. It can lead to intellectual and spiritual growth, regardless of one’s individual beliefs.
• Meaning and Purpose: The question of God is often intertwined with fundamental human questions about meaning and purpose. Open conversation allows us to explore these existential questions together, drawing from the wisdom of diverse traditions and experiences.

Talking About Faith More Openly 

While the need for open conversation is clear, several challenges must be considered when talking about God in the public space. Be sensitive. Religious beliefs are deeply personal, and approaching them with respect and sensitivity is paramount. Avoid judgment, proselytizing, and inflammatory language. Be forthcoming. Be aware of potential power imbalances between participants. Avoid silencing or marginalizing voices based on their beliefs or lack thereof. Be humble. Open conversation requires an honest appraisal of one’s own limitations and biases. Be willing to learn from others and acknowledge the complexity of the topic.

While you might have learned a lot about how to engage in conversations about God with your fellow believers and in the household, you should still be aware of the following:

• Start with Shared Values: Find common ground in shared human values like compassion, justice, and the pursuit of truth. This can serve as a foundation for respectful dialogue even with differing beliefs.
• Active Listening: Focus on truly understanding the other person’s perspective, not just waiting for your turn to speak. Ask clarifying questions and avoid interrupting.
• Empathy and Respect: Acknowledge the emotions that other people have and also their life experiences. This is especially the case if you are in disagreement with their conclusions. Avoid personal attacks and disrespectful language.
• Focus on Shared Questions: Explore common human questions about life, death, suffering, and purpose together. Seek answers from diverse sources, not just personal doctrines.
• Ground Rules: Establish ground rules for the conversation beforehand, such as respecting different viewpoints and avoiding personal attacks.

God in the Public Space

Open conversation about God in the public space, though challenging, is vital for navigating the complexities of our interconnected world. By approaching these conversations with respect, humility, and a genuine desire to understand, we can foster empathy, build bridges, and enrich our own understanding of ourselves and the world around us. 

Remember, the journey is more important than the destination, and the goal is not to convert anyone but to learn, grow, and connect on a deeper level.

Tony Antonellis’s For the Love of God is a God-centered book with inspirational lessons to talk about God in the public space better and foster better understanding between each other.