Importance of Religion: According to a recent CBS News Poll 45% of Americans say the most important part of religion is following the teachings and traditions of their faith as closely as they can. 38% say the search for spirituality — no matter where it takes them — is more important than sticking to those traditions. When asked if they ever bring teachings or philosophies from more than one religion into their own practices, 36% said “yes,” 52% answered “no,” and 10% responded, “religion is not important.” Almost half of people who say religion is at least somewhat important, but who do not attend religious services more than once or twice a month say they combine practices. Only about 25% of people who attend services at least weekly are likely to do so. 23% of all Americans bring into their own religious observances different philosophies or practices they first learned about from friends or family of other religions. (Pastors Weekly Briefing 7/9/05)
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