A sense of meaning. Not replaced but science hasn’t found it yet.

Many people find meaning in understanding how the world works.

Didn’t say it was the only thing that provided meaning but you’ll find in a church depression is less prevalent likely due to the sense of meaning and purpose attendees have.

That sense of meaning is something all attendees can achieve because they are taught to. Science doesn’t teach a person how to be okay with their purpose in life, in fact some of the answers science finds may push people further from purpose.

I have found plenty of purpose in my life without religion.

But you know this is the only life you got, right? Your life is finite and coming to an end. Well, for the ones with faith, life never ends. You might have found purpose but many many others won’t be able to. Just like me, an atheist, struggling to deal with the thought of NOTHINGNESS once this is over.

What helps me is considering that I won't be around to contemplate that nothing. Sure, I dislike that my continuity of experience will eventually end, but, in the ending, there won't be a me to care anymore.

What helps you would make some people very depressed. It’s great that you don’t need it and can provide your own path through life and death but many others need help.