Religion Brings Healthy Families, Strong Marriages and Well-Behaved Children - But Cherry Creek Parents Don't Want That

Patrick F. Fagan, Ph.D. published a paper on the effect of religion on families, titled Why Religion Matters Even More: The Impact of Religious Practice on Social Stability. In it, he states:

Over the past decade, considerable research has emerged that demonstrates the benefits of religious practice within society. Religious practice promotes the well-being of individuals, families, and the community.

Of particular note are the studies that indicate the benefits of religion to the poor. Regular attendance at religious services is linked to healthy, stable family life, strong marriages, and well-behaved children. The practice of religion also leads to a reduction in the incidence of domestic abuse, crime, substance abuse, and addiction. In addition, religious practice leads to an increase in physical and mental health, longevity, and education attainment. Moreover, these effects are intergenerational, as grandparents and parents pass on the benefits to the next generations.

Unfortunately, when the Cherry Creek Colorado schools' "40 Developmental Assets" program recommended spending one or more hours in a "religious institution" (Asset #19), parents sued the school on the grounds of "separation of church and state."

Cherry Creek Schools Faces Federal Lawsuit - Suit: Illegally Urges Churchgoing