Perception of Acceptance and Discrimination Among the LGBTQI + Community in their Churches and its Association with Spiritual Dryness: Findings from a Cross-Sectional Study in Germany.

Data from a cross-sectional survey with options for free text statements revealed that people who identify themselves as part of the LGBTQI+ community (n = 417) experienced both acceptance and discrimination by church members. Their negative experiences affected their relationship with God in terms of spiritual dryness and loss of faith. In regression analyses, the best predictors of life satisfaction and psychological well-being were self-acceptance and low spiritual dryness. This self-acceptance as a resource, mediated the link between spiritual dryness and life satisfaction. Nevertheless, 96% still wish for a church/faith community that welcomes all people-and accepts them as they are and feel.

Perceived Changes of Attitudes and Behaviors of Seventh-Day Adventists During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Findings from a Cross-Sectional Survey in Germany.

To analyze which pandemic related changes of attitudes and behaviors were perceived by Seventh-day Adventists (SDA) and how these relate to wellbeing, a cross-sectional survey with standardized questionnaires was performed. Participants (n = 1,494) stated changes for Relationships, Digital media usage and Nature/Silence/Contemplation, but not for Spirituality or Reflection of life. Best predictors of psychological wellbeing (WHO-5) were Spiritual wellbeing, perceived Restrictions and Awe/Gratitude (R2 = .32). Mediation analyses (R2 = 0.51) revealed a mediation effect of Awe/Gratitude between spiritual to psychological wellbeing (ß = 0.11, p < 0.0001). Perceived changes were less relevant to buffer the negative effects of the pandemic; instead, they were related to fears of future. More relevant to stabilize SDAs´ wellbeing was their spirituality.

Experience of Spiritual Dryness and Acedia Symptoms in Seventh-Day Adventists.

In a cross-sectional survey among 626 Adventists, we investigated their perception of spiritual dryness, and its association with indicators of Acedia, well-being and emotional exhaustion. Women, younger persons and those without a specific duty within the church had significantly higher spiritual dryness scores. Spiritual dryness was predicted best by perceived Excessive Spiritual Demands (indicating spiritual exhaustion) and low perception of the sacred. Further predictors are Acedia's Difficulties in Prayer Life, reduced well-being and emotional exhaustion. The underlying causes might be complex and thus to support persons experiencing these phases, a thorough differentiation of the underlying 'spirits' is required.

Strategies to Cope with Phases of Spiritual Dryness in Seventh-Day Adventists.

In Adventists (n = 603) 45% were less effective and 55% more effective in coping with phases of spiritual dryness, particularly those with leading roles in the church. Strategies such as devotion/trust in God, private prayer/meditation/scripture reading, openness, talks with close others, and self-care were most often utilized. Their ability to cope was predicted best by low Acedia, Living from the Faith, low emotional exhaustion, well-being and having a duty in the church (R2 = .24). When these phases were overcome, several perceived spiritual depth and were able to help others all the more. Helpful strategies should be made available to support persons struggling with spiritual dryness.