From:   John D. Alleyn-Day [SMTP:[log in to unmask]]

Religion originated as a way of explaining the way the world works and
influencing that working if possible (this is the reason Galileo got into
so much trouble with the church and why creationists won't accept
evolution).  Of course, science is a belief, in the sense that any idea is
a belief;  however, there is one crucial difference between science and
ritual religion.  Science works.

[Dave Gale]  Never discuss politics or religion.

That being said:

First of all, Galileo got in trouble because he would not let the church
have his idea. The church at that time was not just a religion, but a form
of extended government. In this case, religion had little to do with it.
Loss of control over millions (and their money) was a much larger factor.

This sounds to me to be more a case of having blinders on. Yes, we accept
information on faith, whether it is creation or big bang. Did you really
research Galileo's situation (and that of the Vatican) or did you take on
faith that you understood the series of events that lead up to this
confrontation?

Science is limited to our perception and ability to perceive. Indeed,
science doesn't always work. History teaches us that our science is
evolving as our perception of the universe changes. Science is in it's
infancy and I look forward to the great discoveries that await us.

Religion? To each his own.