Is there a place for religion in modern society?

I think its evident that religion doesnt have the place in society it once had. Take catholism in Ireland for example. The number of churchgoers is at an all time low compared to way it once was, also the number of priest being ordained and nuns joining the church in Ireland has fallen. There are a number of reasons for the continuing downplaying of religion in peoples lives. I think part of the reason is the many abuses just coming to light in recent years. The complete trust which was placed in the church at that time, led to countless children being subjected to an extensive level of sexual, physical and emotional abuse and neglect and this suffereing went unnoticed for too long because of that trust. The controlling of peoples lives by the catholic church (the education system being run by nuns and priests, women having children out of wedlock being sent away and having their children taken from them) has also played a part in the church's decline as people in modern society are no longer controlled like that.
But i do belive despite all the negatives, there is still has a place for religion in modern society. i think the reason is that many people need to believe in a higher power out there watching over you. Its also a comfort to people who have suffered a loss of a loved one, knowing they're in a better place.