[Zippy]

Religion has without doubt been incredibly damaging to the human race. It's at the root of millions of deaths and certainly the cause of many many prejudices and narrow minded, judgemental opinions.

That said, it's unavoidable. I think human beings have always had an instinctive need to look to a higher force. Animals don't but we humans just think to damn much. Not me, Ive never felt any need for religion.

But to answer the question; I'm sure religion is very helpful to people in times of bereavement. Or in helping people come to terms with their own mortality even. Used wisely I can see that it could be very comforting in certain situations. I guess it depends on how you apply the bibles teachings to your life. You can pretty much pick and choose which bits you choose to live by and which bits you ignore. Thats more or less what religious people do anyways.