My last post about religion and childlessness has brought in so many comments I think we should keep talking about it.

Let’s talk about another aspect of the religion question. I wonder how many childless people stay away from organized religion because most churches are so family-oriented. The pews seem to be filled with couples and their children. The older folks bring their grandchildren. And here you are, sans offspring. If you’re like me, widowed, divorced, single, or married to someone who doesn’t share your faith, you also come sans spouse. It’s lonely. You feel left out of all the “family” activities. Perhaps you stop going to church.

On the other hand, the people at church can become your family. They have for me. I sing for the children, sing with the choir at Mass, share lunches, dinners and picnics with the other parishioners, and spend holidays with my church friends and their kids. On my last birthday, it was the church ladies who surprised me with a big party and a pile of presents.

I suppose it’s a question of attitude. Organized religion, with its “go forth and multiply” philosophy, can make us feel worse about not having children, reminding us that we are different. But if we can get past the fact that we aren’t like the other parishioners (or members of the temple or mosque), if we can join in the activities and trust that God knows what he’s doing, religion can be a great comfort. When I really look around, I realize I’m not the only childless woman or widow there, and it’s good to not be alone.

What do you think about all this? Again, be kind in your comments. No religion-bashing, okay?