Minx ~ 
It is not religion that raises a child, you are right, it is the PARENTS duty or privledge.  But many don't see rearing children as a serious responsibility.   They seem to believe or behave in a manner that is destructive - what will be - will be.    NOT WITH KIDS.  They need serious, loving, and disciplined GROWN-UPS  to teach them, to nuture them, to encourage them, and the guide them. 
Kids are not born knowing the difference between right and wrong.  Hell - many adults don't even know the difference.    If having strong morals in a church or religion helps child rearing - why not?