On November 1, 2023, Pope Francis issued a concise document encouraging theologians to address the everyday challenges of life and actively participate in dialogue with non-believers. Keeping this in mind, I would like to reflect on my own experiences with non-believers and offer a few suggestions that can help us better understand their perspective of life.
During a journey, I engaged in a conversation with a person who identified as a non-believer but was curious about religious life. Initially hesitant, I mustered the courage to answer his questions. When he inquired about how it is possible to remain unmarried, I responded, “By God’s grace.” He then challenged me, asking where God is. Stunned, I explained that we believe God is present in others, as we are created in His image and likeness. He further questioned the need for an invisible God when one can practice values like love and respect without it. I defended my belief by stating that our conscience, which directs us to do good, is a manifestation of God. The non-believer argued that he lives a meaningful life by helping others based on his conscience. When I asked what guides his conscience, he admitted he couldn’t express it.
Sr Benny D’Cunha UFS
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