Why is religion a "hot topic"?

Why are people so passionate about religion? What role does it play in our lives? What can we do to be sure we don't offend people when we are talking about their religion and their beliefs?

Why study world religions?

Is it important for middle school students to learn about religions besides their own? Why?

What do you believe?

If you had to explain what you believe to someone who didn't know anything about Christianity, what would you tell them?