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"The issue isn't whether Jesus or Christianity is real," he said. "The issue is, are Americans willing to put Christ first in their lives?

This is a question that all of us should be asking ourselves.

Personally, I have a constantly evolving, improving, relationship with Jesus Christ. As a Catholic Christian, I view my faith as not static, but something that is living and growing, getting stronger and better. I am still selfish, but I am less selfish now than I was five years ago -- I hope to be less selfish five years from now, though the grace of God. I still want a comfortable lifestyle, but am more willing to sacrifice for my family and God than I was five years ago; I hope to be less concerned with material things as I grow further under God's grade and guidance.

I don't believe that there is one "conversion" experience, and simply a "before" and "after". I believe that conversion is an ongoing process, that you must every day reaffirm that Jesus Christ has the most important place in your life. Some days it's easier than others, but the constant conversion helps us grow in our faith, helps us listen to God when He speaks to us, and understand Him when He does.

These poll results are discouraging, but I see some positive trends. More non-Catholic Christians are turning away from artificial birth control. Statistics show that couples who practice NFP have far lower divorce rates than those who don't. While church attendance isn't up post-9/11, those who attend church are more devout. As both Catholics and other Christians who are trying to live their lives for Christ actually do succeed, they will bear witness to the Catholics and other Christians who may have fallen away.

So, while the poll is discouraging, I also see good. We are the Christians that must stand up and bear witness. We are the Christians who must show others how to live for Christ. We set the example, and our salvation requires it.

God bless.

Very well said. I have to say, my faith is much like yours, living, breathing, and growing. Some of the things you said about having another conversion made me think fondly on communion. I feel this way particularly each time that I take it.

Btw, I was just talking to a friend about the trend in parenting. Couples, even non Catholics, being more likely to use NFP vs artificial bc, have bigger families, a stay at home parent, and effective, biblical discipline.