Distinction: Definitions

Spirituality - a sense of connection to the universe and to a higher
power

Religion - an organized system of worship that gives a framework to the relationship we have with the universe and with a higher power

Comparisons: internal sense vs. external system

Example: If you experience a sense of connection or "know" that people and events have come into your life for a reason, you are experiencing spirituality. When you go to church, recite certain prayers, and celebrate certain holidays, you are practicing your religion.

Key Point:

Spirituality comes from a sense of mystery and an unprovable sense that we are connected to the universe.

Religion is the organized and formal system that was created to help human beings understand and maintain their relationship to that mysterious sense of connection.

Benefit:

Religion is given life by the spirituality of those practicing it.