Pew researchers said last week that 65 percent of American adults describe themselves as Christian. That is down from 77 percent in 2009. Pew also reported that both Protestant and Roman Catholic churches are losing members. Twenty-six percent of Americans now describe their religious identity as atheist, agnostic or “nothing in particular.” That is up from 17 percent in 2009. Atheists are people who do not believe in God. Agnostics are not sure whether or not a God exists. The increase in so-called religious “nones” is happening across all groups of people. Education level also does not seem to matter. “Nones” are growing among college graduates, as well as those with lower levels of education.
