Why I Left The Seventh-day Adventist Church?

Note: This text reflects the personal story shared by one of our readers.

Early Days: A Spiritual Home

As a child, the church was my sanctuary. Sundays were filled with warmth, familiar faces, and rituals that made me feel connected to something bigger than myself. My mother’s unwavering faith guided me through moments of uncertainty, and the church became a cornerstone of my identity.

A Growing Sense of Disconnection

As I grew older, I began to notice cracks in the structure that once felt so solid. Sermons about love and acceptance were often overshadowed by rigid doctrines and exclusionary practices. The LGBTQ+ community, women in leadership, and questions about literal interpretations of scripture became sources of tension. I started to ask myself: Is this truly a reflection of my values?

Balancing Tradition and Change

Despite my concerns, leaving wasn’t an easy decision. The church wasn’t just a place of worship—it was a community, a shared culture, and a family. Memories of potlucks, choir practices, and shared prayers were deeply ingrained in me. I loved the people who filled those pews, but I couldn’t reconcile the institution’s principles with my own sense of justice and inclusivity.

The Decision to Step Away

One pivotal moment came during a discussion on acceptance and grace. While I advocated for more inclusive practices, I felt resistance from those who equated change with compromise. It was then I realized that staying in the church, as it was, felt like condoning beliefs I could no longer support.

I made the painful decision to leave, not out of anger or rebellion, but out of a desire for authenticity. I needed to be true to myself and my understanding of faith.

Faith Without Borders

Since stepping away, I’ve embraced a personal spirituality that transcends the walls of any institution. My faith is no longer confined to a set of rules or rituals but is instead centered on love, compassion, and understanding. I still cherish many of the traditions I grew up with, and I continue to draw strength from prayer and scripture.

A Message of Hope

Leaving a religious community is never simple, and it comes with its share of grief and loss. But it’s also an opportunity to grow and rediscover what faith truly means. To those who feel torn between staying and leaving, know that your journey is valid. Faith isn’t about where you worship but about how you live and love.

This choice, though challenging, allowed me to remain true to both my spiritual roots and my evolving understanding of what it means to follow a path of faith.