YOU WON’T BELIEVE THIS!

The October 4, 2009 edition of Parade Magazine has a survey of what is going on spiritually in America. And the results are shocking! Below are some statistics:    Concerning the Purpose of "Religion." 40% say religion holds the truth; 22% say that religion has no place in their lives; 19% say it helps teach morality and ethics to children.    Concerning the Reasons We Pray. 72% say we pray for the well-being of others; 60% say they pray for forgiveness; 21% pray for material things.    Concerning New Beliefs.   82% would marry someone of a different faith;   59% say that all religions are valid;   24% say they are "spiritual" but not "religious."    19% believe they are religious because it is traditional.    14% say religion makes them feel good.    8% say religion gives them a sense of community.    15% say they pray because God expects them to.    27% pray for personal success.    20% say they go to services once a month or a few times a year.    50% say they rarely attend services.    45% consider themselves religious.    59% say faith can help solve the world's problems.    58% say one should not mix religion and politics.    12% check their horoscopes.    83% say they have no experiences with the spirit of one who has passed away.    9% say they have psychic abilities.    43% say people will go to heaven or hell depending on their good works.    —Dr. Mal Couch