The importance of religion in the lives of Americans is shrinking

Just 16% of Americans surveyed said religion is the most important thing in their lives, according to a new report by the Public Religion Research Institute. (Mary Smyth/Getty Images)

The importance of religion in the lives of Americans is on the decline.

However, for people who do still attend religious services, they say they're optimistic about the future of their house of worship. Those are among the findings of a new report from the Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI).