It is comforting somehow that you should know the mind of god.
You must realize of course that your claim is inherently no better than those you decry? I can understand one finding such things sad and ridiculous, but don't lose your head man.

The people who make those comments only expose themselves to the rest of us.
It's good to know who believes that bullshit, if for no other reasons than to be aware of
them, and avoid them.

Hawking, a brilliant and valuable human being who knew the truth; it is hard to turn an entire planet into a forward thinking free-from-religion-and-god thinking/believing around; they would have to replace all their rituals with something more meaningful that would also be sustaining.

These people are ignorant plain and simple.

you're forgetting if there is a God he is a complete C$£T and at least you know where you stand with the devil.

I always think of meme, if hell does exist there's so many brilliant scientist there that it's probably air-conditioned by now.

And conversely, you have the Westboro Baptist freaks who think they're going to heaven but are nothing but a bunch of ignorant loudmouths.

I long ago decided I didn't want anything to do with a vengeful god that needed to be worshipped. I choose to believe that IF there is a god/gods (and I'm pretty sure there isn't) He/she/it/they would be proud of me for being a good person and using my brain. Send me to hell because I didn't grovel and worship? How petty and childish.