Yes, ritual seems to be a reoccurring characteristic of religion. It is very comfortable and people take much solace in their rituals. It adds a security to their life, a refuge of sorts. Conversely, this very ritual can keep them from spiritual growth. It seems to me anyway. Isn't it from departing from our old familiar ways and reality that we arrive at the most genuine understandings? It is good to come back to an old and comfortable home after journeying in the wilderness, but without the wilderness, can we ever really appreciate the comforts of home?