In this episode of Spiritual Stew, we engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Jacob, also known as JL, a software developer from San Antonio, Texas. Jacob identifies as an atheist and is a member of the Satanic Temple, offering a unique perspective on spirituality and religion. Throughout the episode, we explore Jacob's journey from a devout Catholic upbringing to his current beliefs, focusing on the themes of identity, community, and the complexities of faith.Jacob opens up about his childhood in a heavily Catholic household and reflects on the doubts he began to experience around the age of ten or eleven. He shares candidly about the inner turmoil he faced, grappling with the fear that abandoning his faith would equate to personal failure. As he moved into his twenties, Jacob found liberation in relinquishing the weight of expectation that accompanied his former beliefs, ultimately identifying as agnostic and, later, atheist. We discuss the importance of being honest with oneself regarding belief systems and how Jacob has navigated familial tensions, particularly with his father, over his departure from Catholicism.The conversation takes a broader turn as we delve into the role religion plays in society today. Jacob articulates concerns about theocracy and the potential for privilege among majority religions, specifically referring to the Christian context in the United States. He emphasizes the need for respectful discourse between believers and non-believers, advocating for a balanced approach that allows for individual beliefs without imposing them on others. Jacob expresses admiration for the moral teachings found within Christianity while also criticizing the influence some interpretations have on societal values.Our discussion also highlights Jacob's involvement with the Satanic Temple, clarifying its focus as a political and atheistic collective rather than a traditional religion. He describes it as a counterbalance to Christian influence in government and shares insights into how the organization helps establish rights for non-theistic beliefs. Jacob articulates the misconceptions about atheism and association with hatred toward Christianity, emphasizing that while he critiques specific aspects of the faith, he recognizes the positive values that can be derived from religious teachings.The episode further explores the evolving landscape of spirituality, including the rise of neo-paganism and the search for community among individuals who may be moving away from organized religion. Jacob reflects on how his moral compass has shifted from seeking divine approval to focusing on the welfare of those around him, showcasing a desire for community engagement and activism, particularly regarding social justice issues.Throughout our conversation, Jacob shares his personal experiences and interests, including his fascination with the supernatural and the importance of finding joy and connection in exploring diverse belief systems. He tackles the challenges and fears that come with openly identifying as an atheist in various environments, particularly the workplace, where discussions around faith can become uncomfortable or lead to misunderstandings.In closing, Jacob shares where listeners can connect with him on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, inviting everyone to join in on the ongoing dialogue around spirituality and belief. This episode embodies the core mission of Spiritual Stew: to create a respectful and empathetic space for exploring the myriad ways individuals navigate their spiritual journeys, regardless of their beliefs or lack thereof.

Get full access to Spiritual Tramp at spiritualtramp.substack.com/subscribe