“Deconstruction is the opposite of both construction and destruction; it is the responsible identification of the constructed elements of one’s faith and then taking them apart in order to see the underlying layers of construction wondering what might be useful again and in what configuration.” – Josh de Keijzer
“Deconstruction of Christian faith refers to the process of critically examining and dismantling previously held beliefs, doctrines, and practices associated with one’s religious upbringing. It involves questioning and reevaluating the tenets of faith, often leading to a reformation or even abandonment of certain beliefs. This process is deeply personal and can be driven by a desire for a more authentic and individualized spirituality.” – David Hayward, The Naked Pastor https://nakedpastor.com
Faith, as with anything worth contemplating in life, is both more straightforward and more complicated than many people think. It is both an intensely personal and collective experience, with implications for living that affect individuals, couples, families, and society as a whole. It is imperative then, to approach it with every tool at our disposal, including (especially) critical thinking and encouraging questions.
Religious deconstruction can be uncomfortable – and in some cases devasting. But examining one’s faith cannot be stopped just because someone tells you not to question. So deconstruction happens anyway and instead of knowing what to do and how to grow into maturity, people are increasingly finding themselves ostracized from their homogenous group or leaving the group of their own free will.
If you are already familiar with religious deconstruction, you probably know all of this ↑ and more.
And if you’re here reading this, chances are you are looking to learn more – and hoping to feel less alone. There are more and more people deconstructing their faith every day.
So whether you are deconstructing and ready to leave, deconstructing and longing to stay, or anywhere in between, we’re glad you’re here.