(V): [Now it seems in the US that the Bible is being used to decide policy and or allegiances.]

It doesn't seem that way to me, but for someone who denounces religion you seem strangely preoccupied with religious matters. I was encouraged to not believe in God while I was growing up, so I honestly cannot relate to anyone who harbors bitter catholic school memories. I was so firmly rooted in atheism I can honestly say I had no reaction at all towards people who believed in God... it just wasn't something I could relate to one way or the other.

Several years ago I spoke to someone from my home town who also went to catholic school, until he entered public high school. He knew that I had become a Christian, but was surprised that I was still a Christian. And I mean genuinely surprised. He said, "You still believe in that?" I could tell he didn't mean it as a put down, but I was surprised that he was surprised.

Anyway, I've seen the same kind bitterness towards religion you have in other people who've attended catholic schools. In fact, it's become so obvious to me that I believe I've spotted at least one other person at this board who fits that profile.