Hi Angela, A LOT of Catholics here in the U.S. have 'voted with their feet'. The church ( & parochial school ) I attended as a child is the only one of four Catholic churches within a few miles of each other in Pittsburgh that remains open. They call it consolidation, but that's just another word for empty pew syndrome. I have been a happy Atheist for MANY decades, & will soon depart as one.

hey angela,maybe we could have a nice talk over a coffee or tea in cardiff one day,would love to know more about you and the experiences you had in africa,message me anytime. = )

Hello Angela, it was nice reading your comments on the religion in Africa blog. In my 20s I did some volunteering abroad. I must confess the number one reason I have not since volunteered is religion. I've found that most volunteer/aid organisations require that their members do not discuss religion, and since I've always seen it as the principal causal agent for the need for aid in the first place. I could no longer participate... How could we possibly, logically, chose to help people get a better life and better health if we refuse to broach the number one problem! Anyway, I commend you on your years of efforts. I have been only once, to S. Africa, where I spent 6 months. The objective was both educational (I got my captain's licence and diving certificates in Durban) and cultural exploration. I found my time in S.Africa quite memorable.

Keep me in mind about a year from now-- I'm still a student. It would be excellent to learn from your experience and to be allowed to return to such a beautiful and underappreciated continent.

I spent a month in Zimbabwe when I was fourteen. I have always, always, always wanted to return to Africa and I hope to through my nursing eventually. Thank you for your work there!