Any Christians/former Christians here who left the church?

I'm a former Catholic, as much as anyone is a former Catholic.

I've never understood the concept of hating that which informed and educated you. The pure antipathy some people have with religion belies a deeper struggle, I think.

I loved Catholicism. It’s ornate, traditional, theatrical…all the fun stuff. But my sensibilities outgrew Catholic doctrine. That’s not to say I didn’t gain intellectual independence and declare myself the center of the universe the way many atheists do. Mine evolution was quiet and thoughtful, following my soul to its own answers.

I’m happy with where I’ve found myself, though the scenery continues to change as I evolve. But a solid foundation in a world religion is never a bad way to begin to understand the concept of religion and spirituality and what mankind values. And most churches strive to instill good values. Too much time is spent on the 10% of troublesome churches and little consideration is given to the tens of thousands of churches that carry out the business of God every day.