My beef all along has been one of an institution failing to remain relevant to an increasingly questioning public. The rise of fundamentalism, in many religions, is to my mind a reflection of losing control so combating it with assertion.

Why should I care? Because a grown up mature function would be an asset but the continuing out of step with society approach of many religions hastens their demise. Even a non member like me would think that sad. I support a multi denominational chaplaincy team in hospital care and see them as tangible healthcare provision. Considering the vast majority of our patients do not tick any specific religion box, their supportive role is, once explained, welcomed by many. It helps hasten recovery or make palliative care more comfortable.

But whilstever leaders of religious organisations polarise or abuse their place in society, the social care element, hard wired in everyone, including we cynics, will be vulnerable to being lost. And that would be throwing out the baby with the bath water.