The front-page article "Religion? More reply 'none,'" Oct. 21, about the decline in our community, particularly in my demographic, forced me to think about why I still go to church, despite its flaws.
As I continued through the paper, I found my answer in the obituaries.
I met Dr. Wesley Bradley at Trinity United Methodist Church about five years ago. I was immediately drawn to him — to the earnestness of his handshake, to the comforting advice he offered me as a new dad, to the way he proudly strolled down Lark Street with his lovely bride as if it was their first date.
Although I did not know the extent of Dr. Bradley's professional accomplishments until I read his obituary, I knew the greatness of his grace. I witnessed the faith that had sustained him, and I learned from his humble and caring example.
The church provides a time and place for God's grace to touch and connect us. But, for church, I would not have known Dr. Bradley. My soul, which now grieves his passing, would have remained unaffected.
I go to church to feed my soul. It's not the only way to do it, but I think that Dr. Bradley's life of faith is worth my generation's consideration.
BENJAMIN W. HILL
Albany