Religion under the spotlight

There have been some interesting articles on the subject of religion recently - according to a piece on the BBC News website, a new survey carried out to coincide with the 2011 Census suggests nearly two-thirds of people do not regard themselves as "religious". The online poll asked 1,900 adults in England and Wales a question that is on this month's census form. The British Humanist Association (BHA), which commissioned the poll, said people often identified themselves as religious for cultural reasons.

In another article, BBC Science and technology reporter Jason Palmer suggests religion could be on the way to extinction in nine nations.

Thought provoking stuff indeed for anyone whose work involves helping people at times of crisis in their lives.

Tune in – and win!

A German music radio station has caused controversy with its latest competition.  http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-12663460

Over 600 listeners have penned their own epitaphs in a bid to win insurance to pay for their own funeral – but local funeral directors have sued the radio station over the ‘tasteless’ competition.

In their defence the promoters at Radio Galaxy say they wanted to tackle the taboo topic and get young people talking about death.  A court ruling is expected next week.

Many a family fall out has been caused by disagreements over ‘what mother would have wanted’, so can it really be such a terrible thing to encourage people to make provision and plans for their own funeral?

Regardless of what really prompted Radio Galaxy to run the contest, one thing’s for sure – it’s got people talking – right around the world!