Predictions: Religion in 2002

(RNS) Here are some predictions of things to come in 2002:

1. The search for personal religious experience will intensify in the new year.

Even before the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, millions of Americans were immersing themselves in something called "spirituality." While Judaism and Christianity have been an integral part of American society since the 17th century, their once exclusive religious market has been sharply challenged by New Age teachings, Eastern meditation, cults, and a host of self- empowerment/self-discovery groups that promise spiritual fulfillment.

Synagogues and churches that once depended upon spiritual inertia for their members -- "Your parents and grandparents were members and we know you will continue that tradition" -- have discovered that people require more than family history before they affiliate with a religious institution.

Jewish and Christian leaders have also learned that an emphasis on social justice issues like poverty, illiteracy and the homeless no longer attract new congregants as they once did. As a result, established religions have gone back to basics by focusing on "God," "prayer," "Bible study" and "home liturgy."

The search for spirituality will increase in 2002, as people stay physically closer to home, but also dig deeper into themselves and religion in a sometimes desperate effort to find strength, solace and meaning in a frightening world.

2. Religious extremism will increase in 2002.

Even if terrorist acts carried out in the name of Islam cease, and the influence of Osama bin Laden, whether dead or alive, dissipates, Islamic extremism is here to stay. It can only be overcome by the courageous actions of Muslim leaders who offer a different path than extremism to express authentic Islamic faith.

But sadly, evidence of spiritual intolerance is also present in the Jewish and Christian communities.

In late December members of the Alamogordo, N. M., Christ Community Church tossed at least 30 copies of Harry Potter books on a bonfire. Jack Brock, the church's pastor, claimed, "Harry Potter is the devil and he is destroying people."

Brock admitted he had not read any of the four Potter novels, but that didn't stop him from claiming that young Harry taught wizardry and magic. As a further safeguard, Brock urged his congregants to remove everything from their homes that interferes with communicating with God.

Continued on page 2: »