Why is "His Dark Materials" by Philip Pullman considered by some as anti religion?

I've read somewhere that His Dark Materials by Philip Pullman are attacked by many religious figures. I have only seen the movie "Golden Compass" but I would like to find out some more information as to why people would think that this series is anti-religion? And is it targeted by Catholic Church only or other Churches are attacking Pullman's work as well?

Answer

The author himself said, "My books are about killing God." His work also appears to be anti-established religion, e.g. in this quote:

That's what the Church does, and every church is the same: control, destroy, obliterate every good feeling

In addition, one of the main characters gives up being a nun and states, "the Christian religion... is a very powerful and convincing mistake, that's all" (see above link).

However, for both quotes it is important to realise that the author has stated that readers should not equate his characters' opinions with his own.

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