The images above are all symbols that have meaning in various religions . They are NOT spiritual reality itself (no image or words can adequately describe what we encounter in the spiritual dimension of reality). Symbols point toward some aspect of that reality that groups of believers share. Thus, there is a difference between spirituality and religion.

Spirituality is seeking and honoring the deepest spiritual dimension of reality, taught by individuals whose names we all recognise: Jesus, the Buddha, and in our time the Dalai Lama and others. The reality they reveal in their teachings is spiritual, and we encounter it by following their way of discernment.

Jesus is different than all other spiritual leaders because he claimed that he IS the way to God. Imitating him is the way to spiritual growth and eternal life. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth and the life.” [John 14:6] Jesus personifies the beauty of  heaven and the cosmos.