
Religious "Nones?"
This lesson explores three scenarios where chaplains work with people who do not have any current religious affiliation. The Pew Research Center calls these types of people religious “nones” - people who declare themselves to be either agnostic, atheist, or “nothing in particular.” In this lesson, we will focus on those who identify as "nothing in particular." Some of these religious “nones” have experienced trauma associated with religion. Others may have grown up in a religion, but grew away from their beliefs and practices in adulthood. Learners will navigate each scenario, identifying how to best serve people with adverse or indifferent reactions to spiritual care.
As a result of this lesson, you will be able to:
- Identify strategies for engaging someone who identifies as non-religious
- Articulate the chaplain’s role in making meaning for a non-religious person
This case study was developed by: Shelly Webb and Lars Mackenzie.