Religion is a tool. By itself it doesn’t really do much. But it can be used to justify just about anything, even things incongruent to it’s own philosophy and teachings. It can also be used as a controlling tool to get people to go along with certain ideas or “missions” that they might not be comfortable with themselves. Like say hurting children. That can happen too.Do you think religion harms children? If I had to make an educated guess, if religion didn't exist, the same people who think homosexuality is wrong and oppose abortion would still be around. Religion doesn't create people who are for a certain behavior imo, so why would it create people who oppose certain behaviors?
It can also be a powerful philosophical tool, allowing people to find peace and come to terms with their reality. Or find solace in their life.
Some religions act moreso as a connection to tradition and heritage, especially for kids of immigrants. So there are some positives and negatives to it. But as with anything too much can be a little dangerous.
Religion is neutral imo. But it is often wielded in very strange sometimes contradictory ways. And as a tool, it can be particularly potent.