I think originally, in the long ago past, religion began because people had no other explanation for natural phenomena, like lightning. Of course, to prehistoric tribal people, a lightning strike that caused a fire and devastated their village would be seen as some kind of punishment from the gods. So they created rituals to appease these gods. Hence the beginnings of religion. Now it has become so deeply ingrained into our culture after thousands of years that it persists even when there is no longer a reason to do so.
Yes absolutely abortion is immoral, yes it is a sin, and if you partake in it yes your soul is in jeopardy. And yes religion has rules and their for our benefit, love your neighbor. Treat other people the way you want to be treated. Don't kill don't steal. Honor your father and mother. That is the way we should live as human beings. Live without rules and society breaks down.
but when most of the prople either Atheist............. or when the religious practices/Rituals were not even valued by the same members of the community.. how can it act as a social control mechanism????