Things I Loved Most in America #3 : Hope & Faith
The other day I met with a group of mormon girls. In the bus. In Toulouse, France. I couldn't help but reach out and chat in English for a bit. But mostly, I really wanted to know how they were doing on a “mission” in a very secular country like France.
France is indeed one of the most secular country in the world. While still considered a predominantly Christian population, barely 5% of French people actually go to church. I grew up in a very secular family, my two parents having studied sciences, not practicing religion, and not liking religion for the most part. So I felt a bit wary arriving in a heavily Christian culture. But I was ready – I was willing to go to church is this was the only place to connect with fellow human beings.
Not much perspired at first. Most of my early friends (those actually seeking me and my difference) had strayed from churches. Then I met my pastor neighbor and his family – they felt teachers, just a bit more involved. Some of my workmates went to Bible study. I was invited to an Easter celebration by an Orthodox workmate. All together great people, leading meaningful lives, serving others, practicing kindness, spreading hope, and opening their hearts to me.
My quite progressive artist neighbor was dumfounded when I explained my parents pretty much didn't believe in anything but rationality and science – and despite that had very strong ethics they imparted to me. And I started to wonder myself: how could I hold myself to such high standards when I had no transcendance to refer to? It was really hard to explain to others – and to myself. I had no reason to be good, or the best I could be. No reason to be faithful in my marriage. No reason to practice compassion. It was simply who I was, and the best way to live in my opinion.
Then I moved to the South and everyone's second question for me was “Where do you go to church?”. And I honestly had no answer for them. I didn't belong anywhere. I had always envied all my friends who went to church. I had tried Sunday school. I had even tried Mass in Harlem, NYC at some point. All of a sudden I was surrounded by people with strong bounds to their churches. Most non-profit work depended on churches, many celebrations and social events were held at churches, most preschools, playgroup and kids activities belonged to churches. Even non-religious groups like professional organizations started meetings by a prayers or a blessing. Main street shops quoted scriptures on social media. I didn't get it but I deeply understood the need to belong – sharing certitudes and community. I also saw the damage certitudes and limited social spheres could do and I set off to open as many hearts as possible.