By some measures the USA is the world’s most religious country. Yet, Americans are the least religious now than they have ever been. We will briefly examine the views of three exceptional people – a famous preacher, a famous scientist, and a highly regarded physicist turned Anglican priest. We will conclude with a brief story (Plus 1) that may surprise you.

Dick Smythe is an entomologist retired from the research division of the US Forest Service. Throughout his life he has maintained two dominant interests: first, his fascination with the natural world – our non-human environment and endless source of wonder; second, his abiding interest in religion/theology – a subject of continuing education and challenge.