pete:

don-seems to me you are making some sweeping and unwarrented statements claiming[if i dont misunderstand you]that religion only benifits its adherents.there are numerous faith based charities that give aid and support to all comers regardless of whatever faith position.

Indeed, you do misunderstand me. The church I belong to does not benefit only its adherents. It's a small church, with a congregation of about 200, most of whom are fairly young working people (including, I might add, a number of attorneys and one state legislator). It is not a wealthy church, but it is not poor, either.

When people come into the main room in the parish house next to the church, where the meals are served, they are not subjected to having to "pay for the soup by listening to the sermon," NOR are they asked what their religious affiliation is—nor are they asked if they HAVE any religious affiliation. The "soup" (a considerably more sumptuous meal that merely a bowl of soup) is free to anyone in need. The same holds true for LATCH (the Lutheran Alliance To Create Housing). No one is asked about their religion, if any, as a precondition to living in one of these facilities, nor are they hassled once they do.

Anyone in need. pete, I don't think Jesus had the sick fill out a questionnaire before He healed them.

I know for a fact that there are many self-proclaimed "Christians" who haven't a clue as to what Christianity is all about.

Don Firth