From Doctrine to Love: Sheri Pallas on Leaving Religion to Embrace Unconditional Love

by:

August 22, 2024

Rev. Dr. Sheri Pallas is a woman who embodies resilience and transformation. After a life steeped in religious tradition, Sheri embarked on a courageous journey to find her own truth, one that led her away from dogma and towards a deeper understanding of unconditional love. Her experiences, challenges, and triumphs are beautifully captured in her book, We Have Ruined God: My Journey Out of Religion and Into Unconditional Love. In this interview, Sheri shares her personal story, offering insight and inspiration for anyone seeking to break free from the confines of fear-based beliefs and embrace a life rooted in love and acceptance. Her message is clear: love is the truth, and it’s available to everyone.

What inspired you to write We Have Ruined God: My Journey Out of Religion and Into Unconditional Love?
When the church discriminated against my 10 month old grandson, I knew I had to speak up.
Can you describe your personal journey and how it led you to question and ultimately leave your previous religious beliefs?

I went from my entire life being church/Christ centered to learning that most of what I was taught was inaccurate. My family and church focused on laws, not love. Now, my entire focus is how I can be a more loving person. More like Jesus, less like religion.
How did your departure from religion impact your mental health and overall well-being?

It freed me from shame, paranoia, and constant fear of hell and the apocalypse.
What were some of the most challenging aspects of leaving a religious framework and embracing a new perspective on unconditional love?

Trying to find the “truth.” I discovered that love is the truth; for everyone.
How did you cope with any feelings of guilt, fear, or doubt during your transition?

More study, overcoming cognitive dissonance, and realizing love was the answer. Discovering the man made laws due to agendas, not divine doctrine alleviated “all” of those.
In what ways has your understanding of unconditional love evolved through this journey?

Unconditional love now means what it’s meant to: unconditional.
How did your experiences with religion shape your views on hate and acceptance?

Religion taught me a lot of hate. Love teaches me acceptance.
What role did support systems or communities play in your journey out of religion?

My journey started before social media. Not until the book was almost done did I find communities online. So I walked the path alone.
Can you share a specific moment or event that was pivotal in your decision to leave religion?

I was 27 and learned that the Bible was not historically factual. I talk about it in the book. It was devastating.
What advice would you give to someone who is questioning their own religious beliefs and considering a change?

Read my book lol. And to start at the places that cause the most damage. Discovering the invalidity of the doctrine removes its power over us.
How do you practice self-care and maintain your mental health while navigating such a significant life change?

Good friends, therapy, and focusing on the most loving outcome for all involved. And “Thy will be done, oh Lord” has calmed when nothing else would. Releasing control of outcomes has been tested and proven in my life. When I live “in the flow” everything works out and usually beyond my wildest dreams!
What do you hope readers will take away from your book?

Doctrine and dogma mean nothing if it doesn’t make us more loving, accepting people. All religions are flawed, because they’re run by humans. But the main components of “love” and “let go/go with the flow/fear not” are universal truths. And it starts with loving ourselves.
How has writing this book helped you in your personal healing process?

OMG In every way! I lived in survival mode, along with shame and fear. That’s (almost!) all gone now.
Can you share any challenges or obstacles you faced while writing and promoting your book?

People take too long to read it and then send me the review instead of posting them on the retailer’s site. lol
What message or lessons do you hope to convey to other women who may be on a similar journey?

The Patriarchy is everywhere! They want our division and submission. But together, we are stronger and can change things. We are sisters and knowing that makes things less mountainous. Together, we can create a more loving world.