In the last year or so, I have really begun to examine my faith and what it means to me. In all honesty, I still have quite a bit to figure out, but I think many of us do.

All throughout my time spent in Sunday school, Bible camps, and confirmation classes, I couldn't help but to feel like I was being taught that there is only one correct way to be a Christian. I understood that Jesus is supposed to be the way, the truth, and the life, and it is through a belief in this that brings eternal salvation.

However, this became so indoctrinated in my brain that I was not able to fully see how alienating Christianity can be. It's all about believing a certain way, having to act a certain way - if you don't want to spend an eternity in the fiery pits, that is.

I could never understand why there was a need for the vast number of denominations under the umbrella of Christianity. If most of us believe in God and Jesus and try to be good people, why do we need to differentiate between Methodists and Catholics?

Even within the Lutheran faith, there are a number of different divisions, with different beliefs. I grew up in a Missouri Synod church, which is one of the more conservative branches of Lutheranism. Literal translations of scripture are taught, and women are not allowed to become ordained ministers.

These teachings do not align with my more liberal beliefs, and so I definitely have moved away from the Missouri Synod church.

Then I was blown away when I first attended a service at a more contemporary ELCA church (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America). I had no idea worship could look like that - upbeat songs instead of hymns, a band instead of an organ, and more relatable sermons.

But I still had concerns about churches' messages. Another issue I have with Christianity is that someone cannot be regarded as a devout believer if they do not attend weekly services.

There are people who truly enjoy going to services and worshipping with others, but I have never really been drawn to it. If I can skip church and instead think about my faith on my own terms, that's good enough for me.

My faith has just never been a huge part of my life, and I don't think it ever will be. I don't think this makes me a bad person, and I don't think differently of people who do have a strong foundation in their faith life.

I still enjoy talking about my beliefs with others, and also listening and understanding theirs. I think if we all did this a little more, we could become a more compassionate population.