Why Does Spiritual Community Matter?
By Toby Armstrong
A vibrant, diverse, messy, and beautiful group of people where stories are shared, struggles are met with understanding, and we explore what it means to live with purpose. But why does being part of a spiritual community even matter? Isn’t finding meaning a personal journey, something we figure out on our own, in our own way? While personal reflection is important, being in community is essential too. Here’s why spiritual community matters more than ever.
“Connection is why we're here; it is what gives purpose and meaning to our lives.” — Brené Brown
Think about the rise of co-working spaces or meet-up groups—spaces where people can come together, share ideas, and support one another. There’s a reason these are so popular: we crave community. Just like we gather at concerts or volunteer events, being part of a spiritual community connects us to others who are also searching for deeper meaning and understanding.
“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” — African Proverb
Consider the power of teams in sports or creative collaboration in music and art. Whether it's a band crafting a song or a team strategizing on the court, the magic often happens when people come together and push each other toward excellence. A spiritual community is similar; it’s where we challenge and encourage each other to think differently, grow personally, and expand our understanding.
“Sometimes, reaching out and taking someone's hand is the beginning of a journey. At other times, it is allowing another to take yours.” — Vera Nazarian
Think of mutual aid groups or community support networks that sprung up during the pandemic. When everything felt chaotic and uncertain, people came together to support one another, whether it was delivering groceries or offering emotional support. In a spiritual community, we find this same kind of support—a network of people who are there to help and encourage us when life throws us a curveball.
“The greatest gift you can give yourself is to find a community where you can be unapologetically you.” — Unknown
The popularity of shows like “Ted Lasso” reflects our deep desire for spaces where people can show up as they are, flaws and all, and still find acceptance. In the show, the locker room becomes a place where people find unexpected healing and support. Similarly, a spiritual community offers that kind of welcoming space, where we can bring our true selves, find empathy, and start to heal.
“Individually, we are one drop. Together, we are an ocean.” — Ryunosuke Satoro
Think about the movements for social justice or environmental change—when people come together with a shared purpose, incredible things can happen. Just look at the power of grassroots campaigns or community-driven projects. Being part of a spiritual community helps us discover how our individual lives fit into a larger story and empowers us to make a difference together.
“Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.” — Desmond Tutu
In a world that can often feel overwhelming, like scrolling through a never-ending news feed filled with bad news, being part of a spiritual community can be like finding a beacon of light. It’s a place where we are reminded that we’re not defined by the chaos around us, but by our capacity to care, connect, and hold on to hope together.
At The Outpost, we believe that community matters because it makes life richer and more meaningful. It’s not about having it all figured out or fitting into a certain mold. It’s about showing up, being real, and doing life together. Whether you’re questioning, searching, or just looking for a place to belong, there’s a space for you here.
We invite you to come check us out at The Outpost. No strings attached, just a group of people trying to figure out life together. Come as you are—we’d love to meet you.
