I hear you, and I definitely understand your disgust for organized religion. But I think I would be remiss if I did not point out that some of my friends in affirming denominations are wonderful people who use their spirituality for good rather than evil.

It would be difficult to characterize the Episcopalian Church, the Quakers, Unitarian Universalists, etc as engaging in any kind of scams. These religious movements among others center love and social justice in their activities.

I reserve my disgust for the Roman Catholic Church, Evangelical churches, and other religious organizations that teach hate and engage in hateful practices.