How Does Religion Shape My Identity

Cambridge defines identity as, ““the qualities of a person or group that make them different from others.” However, I believe that the word identity is quite abstract because it can not only mean different things to different people, but can also be expressed in different ways. A cultural aspect that has shaped, formed and influenced my identity is my religion. From birth, I have been brought up as a Catholic and this has played a large role in both my life and forming my identity. This influence can be seen through my personal experiences, values, morals and the ways in which I interact with the others around me.

Both the importance and influence of religion on me personally, is heavily due to being brought up in a Catholic environment that
Due to the Catholic environment that I was brought up in, throughout my life I have been taught the core catholic morals, values and beliefs which today, align with my own personal values and beliefs. Two of the core Christian values are love and service which have become important values to me personally, as I strive to love and share love with everyone around me as well as help people whenever and wherever I can, even if it’s just opening a door for someone. These values have played a large role in shaping my identity because I identify myself as someone who exercises these values by being positive, happy as well as loving and appreciative of those around me. In addition, Catholicism places a special importance on family and the values within the family unit such as unity and respect. Throughout my life, I have placed the highest importance on family and respecting my family as they have been the biggest influence on my personal beliefs, opinions and views which have formed my identity and the person I am today. The large role of Catholicism in shaping my identity has clearly been seen through the ways in which religion has influenced my personal values and morals that contribute to my identity