re: Religion as social club
Very nicely said, and I agree with your observations.
Right after my divorce, when I moved into this neighbourhood, I had two different churches come by and invite me to their Sunday meetings. Although I declined, I found this scarier than a Welcome Wagon! I have my own religious beliefs, but not convictions; but my common sense was these church-going individuals were more nosey than caring; and I certainly wouldn't be giving them anything to talk about anytime soon!
And yes, people have a comfort zone that they're brought up with. That's why our country is in the shape it's in. Bush building his Christian right base before moving in for the kill, was brilliant.