Religion seems much on America’s mind. What else is new? A Newsweek cover story, “The End of Christian America,“ provoked debate and consternation. Critics who likened the article to an attack on Christianity either misread the piece or read it without clarity and, for that matter, without charity. The author, Jon Meacham, identifies himself as a Christian, albeit a “poor” one, which places him among the multitudes, including the writer of these words. Then there is the controversy regarding Notre Dame, Barack Obama, and an honorary degree. Accusations have been traded regarding another movie based on another comic novel by Dan “Da Vinci Code” Brown. Editors of Britain’s Economist have published a book about religion’s resiliency. God Is Back proclaims the title, a prospect a reviewer in The New York Times evidently considers appalling.

I have friends who are members of Christian churches where the Apostles’ and Nicene Creeds are said. As we know, these creeds incorporate belief in Christ’s virgin birth and resurrection. Several of these friends, however, do not accept these parts of the creeds. They are clearly people of good character who do believe in the teachings of Jesus. They give generously of their time and resources to helping others and serving their church.

What is Advent? It’s that time of year again when nifty Advent calendars, temptingly positioned at child’s-eye view, are stacked on shelves in almost every store just waiting for the day when each of the 25 window covers will be pulled back and the surprise hidden within will be revealed.

During the season of Advent, which begins on the fourth Sunday before Christmas, Christians hear Scripture readings and sermons about the events that preceded the birth of Jesus Christ.