by Steve Martin

Created on: February 04, 2007   Last Updated: March 18, 2007

Is there a rise a secularism? This supposed rise is accepted as a truism. However, three points should be borne in mind before accepting this.

1. In many areas, there is an increase. Due to immigration, there are now approximately two million practising muslims.

2. Although there is a decline in church attendance, there is a huge increase in interest in spiritual matters, as evidenced by the growth in new age spirituality. The churches are increasingly irrelevant in the modern world. Today's society is very complex and there are many issues on the poltical, societal and scientific front which need answers. Unfortunately, the churches seem fixated on their preoccupations (sex etc) and show little interest in helping people in contemporary society.

3. Bear in mind that, although there has been a decrease in church attendance, this does not necessarily mean a decline in interest in religious matters. In the past, many people were forced to go to church (e.g. children) or felt pressure to attend; to be seen to be a good person. Less people may attend services nowadays, but those who do are genuinely committed to their faith.

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