The author reflects on his experiences over the past four decades, observing that religious leaders often hold less dogmatic views in private discussions than their public personas suggest. Many Protestant ministers and Catholic clergy have acknowledged the challenges posed by literal interpretations of scripture and dated church practices, revealing a divide between the official doctrines they espouse and their personal beliefs on theological matters. This discrepancy is seen as less significant compared to the pervasive threats posed by secularism and the growing indifference towards organized religion.

The article also draws a parallel to the Munich Security Conference, which is described as possessing a quasi-religious dimension. This event often showcases the complexities of international relations, where public declarations may not fully reflect the underlying beliefs and tensions among participating nations. The author suggests that just as religious institutions struggle with internal contradictions, international alliances like that of the transatlantic community may also require significant reevaluation in approaching the multi-faceted global challenges of today.

Ultimately, the author calls for a new framework or 'religion' in the context of international relations, emphasizing the necessity for a paradigm shift to adapt to contemporary issues that transcend traditional alignments. The implications of this proposal highlight the urgency of addressing the ideological fractures that may deepen if global leaders fail to acknowledge and adapt to the evolving geopolitical landscape.