Introduction

What is religion? Religion is a collection of beliefs systems, cultural systems and worldviews that relate humanity to spirituality and sometimes, to moral values.
Whereas Family Values are political and social beliefs that hold the nuclear family to be the essential unit of society. Religion and the Family have had a close link throughout the history of humanity; they both are an independent institution which co-exists together and influence each other in the Western society.
Over the past decade, considerable research has emerged that demonstrates the benefits of religious practice within society.[1] Religious practice promotes the well-being of individuals, families, and the community.
Of particular note are the studies that indicate the benefits of Religion to the poor.[2] Regular attendance at religious services is linked to healthy, stable family life, strong marriages, and well-behaved children. The practice of Religion also leads to a reduction in the incidence of domestic abuse, crime, substance abuse, and addiction. In addition, religious practice leads to an increase in physical and mental health, longevity, and education attainment. Moreover, these effects are intergenerational, as grandparents and parents pass on the benefits to the next generations.
Does religion make a difference for the family in the modern world? If so, in what ways? How does the practice of religion assist the family to be a better family?
In the recent decades drastic changes have taken place in the configuration of the family unit and the cultural and social pressures on family structures. As a result many sociologists of religion as well as others interested in the health and vitality of this institution are engaged in studying the place and role of religion in the family. In addition there is considerable focus on the function and changing shape of