I was raised in the Protestant church. It was always a positive influence in my life. My kids were raised and baptized in the church. My husband and I were active but not to any wild extent.
Fast forward to a severe, severe depression. I was huddled in the closet and I felt like just one small push over and I would die. Not a sui thing, just so depressed I felt death was very near....the low point of my life. So I remembering asking God or Jesus or anyone up there for a sign or something. Just some encouragement. And absolutely nothing came.
So when I eventually got better, I decided I had no interest in church. And I didn't attend for ten years.
Recently, though, I got the urge to go to church again. Not through any big interest in God, but more of an interest in meeting people. The first Sunday the pastor mentioned that the church was open and welcoming to all... and I could tell he meant it. The people were friendly but not in your face. So I've been slowly going and getting involved on the edges. We've been taking food and donations in when the church collects things. I got on the prayer chain. (I figure even if I'm not the most religious, my prayers can't hurt.) I haven't gotten close to any specific people but I like the Sunday service. The church has a big glass window and I can look out and see the beautiful desert during the sermon. And I like the music.
I'm not so worried about whether I believe or not. For me, right now this church is meeting my needs. I think I could approach the pastor if I decide to disclose my illness to him. I feel good about helping and giving back where I can. And if I get depressed or manic, I can just drop off the radar if I like.
So I'm on both sides of the religious debate. Sometimes, good but can be bad.
I agree with the above poster that the idea is just to be good to others and help as you are able.