I am constantly being challenged - 'Islam isn't really a religion of peace', 'Why aren't you as a Christian denouncing Islam'. This is the language of hate and enmity, erecting barriers between people who need to meet, understand and build relationships with each other. But Jesus said, 'love your neighbour'. We need to hold on to that, whether we are Christian, Muslim, Hindu or atheist...

Yes, there are a variety of beliefs about marriage in society. Yes, there are people on all sides of the gay marriage debate. But should your beliefs about that issue result in you being pushed out of your job? Should your career be abruptly ended because you think marriage is only for men and women?

No one's religious anymore. Not anyone with any sense. Religion incites hatred, starts wars, and vilifies anyone who challenges its narrow-minded views. Believing in a big bearded man in the sky is stupid. I can say and do what I want because when I die I'm either going to be burnt or rot in the ground. That's it.

I recently returned to what Bertrand Russell, perhaps Britain's best known philosopher, had to say about religion.