The Rise of the 'Nones,' Loretto Sisters at 200, and More
October 17, 2012
Summary: Why nearly 20 percent of Americans don't identify with a faith, the trailblazing sisters of the Loretto community, and religion and sci-fi
Unaffiliated in America
October 17, 2012
Since the 1990s, more and more Americans have answered the question “what religion are you?” with "atheist," "agnostic" or “nothing in particular.”
The so-called "nones" now make up nearly 20 percent of the population, and they're not what you might expect. Most believe in God and are open to spirituality. About 40 percent say they pray, and about 20 percent even say religion is somewhat important in their lives. This week: a portrait of who the unaffiliated are, what they believe, and why they might affect the Presidential election.
Maureen takes us on a journey to Kentucky hill country--to the home base of her community, the Sisters of Loretto. It's a story that began 200 years ago, when three pioneering women traveled from the east coast to provide education for the local children.
Pictured: The 1943 Sacred Heart Elementary faculty in El Paso, Texas. The school was opened in 1892 by the Sisters of Loretto.
