Until there is some empirical evidence for deities, the default position is what can be observed and studied. "Theology" is the study of a null set.
I agree. This point does matter.
At present, I have a great dislike for religion. My father is suffering from Parkinson's disease. The thought that he might perhaps have had some relief, had foolish superstition not blocked promising research, sickens me.
I would have no problem with people holding weird, unsupported beliefs, if only they would keep them to themselves.