In the eyes of many, Maine may seem to be the least religious state (May 19). I do not believe that to be true.

Yearly, I write down in the book of the dead the deaths that have occurred at St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center and the d’Youville Pavilion. We lose about 120 to 200 people yearly. That accounts for why church pews are getting empty. And, years ago, people had large families. Not so now.

If young people are not raised in any faith tradition, that is also a reason why churches are getting emptier as the older people die off.

And, years ago, parents often left it up to the clergy or nuns to teach young people the faith. If parents do not come to church, even though the children are instructed in the faith, the children will probably follow the example of their parents later.

I taught religion classes in the past and found that some children did not know basic prayers.

My faith has sustained me all of my life. I do not know how people can manage facing life’s difficulties without God in their lives.

Gabrielle De Moras, Lewiston