57% of Russians say religion is the most important part of their lives, according to a recent Romir Monitoring survey. 40% of respondents said religion does not play an important role in their lives. 3% had difficulties answering the question. Women and the elderly are the most religious, while men and youth age 18-24 most often said religion was not important. But for most Russians religion is not connected with the church. Only 36% of respondents visit a church at least once per year. 53% said they never frequent churches. 1630 respondents took part in the survey which was conducted in mid-March.