Navigating the Shifting Sands of Faith

JUNE 27, 2025

We're incredibly proud to celebrate Julian DeShazier, McCormick Theological Seminary's Director of Experiential Education, who recently earned the distinguished title of "Top Columnist" at the Associated Church Press awards. This well-deserved recognition highlights his profound ability to articulate the complex spiritual landscape of our time, particularly through his award-winning essay, "Religiously Fluid," published in The Christian Century.

DeShazier's piece isn't just an observation; it's a window into the evolving nature of faith for a significant portion of today's population, especially millennials. It bravely introduces and unpacks the concept of "religious fluidity," a term that captures the dynamic and often multi-faceted spiritual journeys many are undertaking.

His article, "Religiously Fluid” — read it here:  http://bit.ly/3HJD0UA, he argues that for many contemporary Christians, especially millennials, faith isn't a singular, exclusive stream. Instead, it's more like a diverse river system, where individuals draw spiritual nourishment from multiple sources. DeShazier, drawing from his own experiences, illustrates how one can remain deeply rooted in Christianity while also openly exploring wisdom, practices, and perspectives from other traditions, be it Islam, Buddhism, or even secular philosophies.

This fluidity isn't about abandoning faith; rather, it's a testament to a generation's profound cynicism toward traditional institutions – including the church, which they've seen falter or fail to meet their promises. In response, they are proactively constructing their own spiritual ecosystems. This means finding guidance and solace not just in sermons, but also in therapy sessions, mindfulness practices, social media communities, and personal reflection. It's a highly personalized, authentic quest for meaning and connection.

Julian DeShazier's "Religiously Fluid" isn't just an award-winning essay; it's a vital contribution to our understanding of modern spirituality. It invites us all to broaden our perspectives and engage with the evolving landscape of faith with greater wisdom and inclusivity.

Join us in celebrating Julian's remarkable achievement and his invaluable contribution to contemporary theological discourse!