You distort the basic beliefs of Christianity when you say it's based on a passionate belief in heaven and hell. Those are certainly part of the beliefs of almost all Christian denominations - but the primary emphasis of Christianity is on having a relationship with God, of seeking That which is beyond us. I know that's had for a nonbeliever to understand, and that may be why all they see of religion is sin and guilt and heaven and hell.

It was the Vatican spokesperson who introduced the concept of a passionate belief in heaven in hell. And I do not say that it is Chirstianity that is based on this. What I said and stand by - is that this whole organised religion (i.e. the Catholic Church) is founded on this belief and maintains it grip on its members by the threat of heaven and the promise of hell - in that order.

If anybody can only see organised religion being sin and guilt and heaven and hell as you say - this is surely perfectly explicable given the times and history of organised religion? And where Christianity may be about a relationship with God and seeking what is beyond us as you say - I can go along with that. But what has any human constructed organised religion really got to do with God or a personal faith?

It is surely possible to have a relationship with God, to seek what is beyond us and have faith - without being a member of or accepting the tenets of any organised religion?

And if it is - what purpose does organised religion now serve?