Michael's reasons for joining the clergy were partly personal - interested in literature, languages etc - and partly driven by a sense of doing good in the community. I'm sure he did plenty of the latter and I think this is where most religious people are at their best - helping others in many different ways without ever counting the cost. There is, of course, plenty of non-religious, free help and advice out there, but nothing yet to compare with the church. The closest (in the UK, at least) is probably the Samaritans who everyone knows as a non-religious brand to trust. It was started by a vicar though!

My point is that, if we are to, successfully, challenge religion, we need to find a good substitute for the warm feeling of community and help that is provided by churches.