In John Irving's "A Prayer for Owen Meany," the author critiques self-centered religions that serve personal ambitions rather than genuine spiritual growth. This kind of belief system can lead individuals to manipulate faith for their own benefits, ultimately undermining the true essence of spirituality. Religion should ideally connect individuals with a higher purpose and foster community, yet a self-serving approach distorts this potential. Instead of promoting altruism and compassion, it may encourage selfishness and personal gain, diminishing the faith's power to inspire true values.

This is what a self-centered religion does to us: it allows us to use it to further our own ends.

In "A Prayer for Owen Meany," Irving illuminates these issues, urging readers to reflect on the authentic nature of their beliefs.