The audience that I try to reach are members of what I call the church alumni association. Now they are people who have not found in institutional religion a God big enough to be God for their world.

The quote by John Shelby Spong highlights his focus on engaging with individuals he refers to as the “church alumni association”—people who have stepped away from institutional religion. Spong suggests that these individuals have not found a version of God within traditional structures that feels relevant or sufficiently expansive for their understanding of the world. His remark underscores a need for a more inclusive, dynamic, and personally meaningful approach to spirituality.

Spong’s statement emphasizes the distinction between institutional religion and personal faith or spirituality. By addressing those who feel disconnected from conventional religious practices, he highlights the importance of finding a God or spiritual framework that resonates with one’s own experience, values, and worldview. His approach seeks to engage those disenchanted with rigid doctrines while maintaining a deep connection to spiritual exploration.

The origin of the quote comes from John Shelby Spong, an American bishop and theologian known for his progressive views on Christianity and faith. Spong often challenged traditional interpretations of scripture, doctrine, and church practices, advocating for a more inclusive and intellectually engaged spirituality that addresses contemporary human concerns. His work encourages people to seek a personal and relevant connection to God, outside conventional religious confines.

Ultimately, the quote conveys a message about spiritual relevance, inclusivity, and personal exploration. Spong reminds us that faith should be meaningful and expansive, capable of speaking to individuals’ lived experiences. By reaching out to those disillusioned with institutional religion, he promotes a vision of spirituality that is open, adaptable, and deeply human-centered.

I can also create a condensed, bolded version for quick reference if you want.