The key difference between deconstructing religion and deconstructing religious families lies in the focus and the nature of the conflicts. Deconstructing religion is primarily an internal process of examining and potentially rejecting specific religious beliefs. It involves cognitive and emotional shifts that relate to one's worldview and personal identity. In contrast, deconstructing religious families is relational and involves addressing the interpersonal dynamics that arise when religious beliefs are no longer shared. This process can uncover and amplify existing family issues, such as communication breakdowns, unmet emotional needs, or unresolved childhood trauma, which may have been obscured by the religious framework.

The construction of the sacred canopy begins with the establishment of religious institutions. These institutions, such as churches, mosques, temples, and synagogues, play a critical role in shaping and maintaining religious beliefs and practices. They provide a sense of order and purpose, presenting themselves as the ultimate arbiters of what is sacred and profane.

From birth, individuals are shaped by the values, norms, and expectations of the societies and cultures they belong to. Family, schools, religious institutions, and media all contribute to this process, instilling a sense of who we should be rather than allowing us to explore who we are.