Journey Into Self

Spiritual vs Religious Prayer

Is there a difference between spiritual and religious prayer, or is prayer simply prayer?

• Connection
  Spiritual prayer arises from a sense of unity—physical, emotional, and mental—with God-Goddess All That Is.
  Religious prayer is often rooted in a feeling of separation between oneself and God.
• Communication Style
  Spiritual prayer is a two-way dialogue, an open line between oneself and spiritual beings.
  Religious prayer tends to be a one-way conversation directed at a higher power.
• Empowerment
  Spiritual prayer is self-empowering, drawing on self-authorized inner strength and connecting one’s various levels of consciousness and higher selves.
  Religious prayer often involves requests, pleas, or a search for empowerment from an external source.
• Experience
  Spiritual prayer is a multifaceted experience—an interactive journey that engages the senses.
  Religious prayer tends to be a one-sided conversation, often focused on petitions, apologies, and self-reflection.

All prayers—spiritual and religious—are heard, acknowledged, and responded to. The answers reflect both our deepest, often hidden desires, and the intentions of the spiritual beings who inhabit our prayers.