The latter was typically perceived to allow for and support religious beliefs while the reverse is not always so. In the workplace, these distinctions are important for various reasons. To seek the latter is to court an infringement of religious freedom lawsuit. Understanding this is necessary because again, spirituality is not the same as religion. Spirituality is considered nondenominational, inclusive, universally applicable and embracing of diverse expression while emphasizing interconnectedness of being.
Religion tends to be dogmatic, exclusive, divisive and narrow.
Obviously, this is a generalized sentiment, but one shared by many study participants. The question of how to address spirituality in the workplace is undeniably challenging and made more so because empirical studies of its affects are few. Two research projects that examine these matters include the Sloan article already mentioned and a study by the High Tor Alliance regarding contemplative practice within corporate life. Both conclude workplace spirituality is beneficial and possibly necessary for long term organizational survival. For the most part, workplace spirituality is handled as intriguing yet uncomfortable.