One question I am asked quite often is a simple one: do we need to go to church?

From what I have experienced over the years, the honest answer is no, you do not have to go to church. But that doesn’t mean church is not a lovely place to be. For many people it can be a place of peace, reflection, and prayer.

The important thing is not simply going to church, but why you are going.

Religion and Control

Throughout history, religion — in many forms — has often been used to guide or control populations. That is something most of us are aware of.

But it is important to separate that history from the true message behind many religions.

Personally, I am a Christian and I believe in Jesus. But I also believe something very simple: any religion that teaches love is a holy religion. It really is that straightforward.

Is Church Important for the Afterlife?

People sometimes ask if going to church regularly makes life easier when we pass over to the other side.

From my experience giving readings and connecting with people who have passed, I cannot say that attending church automatically gives someone an advantage. It simply doesn’t work that way.

What truly seems to matter is the kind of person you were while you were here.

The people who find it easier to come through in readings are often those who lived good, kind lives. Whether they attended church or not is usually irrelevant.

They were people who cared for their families, helped those around them, and treated others with kindness.

We all know people like that. When they pass away, what they leave behind in the minds of others are beautiful memories. People say, “They were a good person.”

When Church Is the Wrong Reason

There are also people who attend church for the wrong reasons.

Some go simply to be seen, almost as if saying, “Look at me, I must be a good person — I go to church.”

But spiritual life doesn’t work like that.

When someone passes to the other side, who you truly are becomes completely clear.

With what I would call spiritual sight, which we all have when we leave this world, you cannot pretend to be someone else. When you look at another person, you see them as they truly are.

Life Is a Learning Experience

Life on earth is, in many ways, a learning experience. It is similar to a child going to school. During our time here we learn, grow, make mistakes, and hopefully become better people.

When someone passes over, they can look back on their life.

If they have been kind, loving, and helpful to others, they see how those actions created good around them. Love spreads. When you give love to someone, there is a good chance they will pass that love on to someone else.

But the opposite can also happen.

If someone has treated others badly, they may later see how that behaviour influenced others to act in the same way. It can be difficult to realise that you were the starting point for that negativity.

The Most Important Thing

So when people ask me whether they should go to church, my answer is simple.

If you want to go, go. Many churches are beautiful places with a wonderful atmosphere. They can be peaceful spaces to pray, reflect, and connect spiritually.

But the most important thing is not whether you attend church or follow a particular religion.

The most important thing is how you treat other people.

Love those around you.
Help others when you can.
Care for your neighbour.

Because one day we will all pass to the other side, and when that moment comes we will see our lives clearly.

And from what I have witnessed through the many readings I have given, those who have lived with kindness and love find that transition far easier.

In the end, it all comes back to one simple truth:

Love matters most.