That "conventional wisdom" is just another example of the parochialism and insularity of elite media which is, as we all know, overweighted with liberal, big city and secular bias. Then, of course, there are those sad folks for whom, as they proclaim the waning influence of religion in America, the wish is father to the thought.
Lott's analysis is great news for all those who believe Alexis de Tocqueville, who wrote:
Not until I went into the churches of America and heard her pulpits flame with righteousness did I understand the secret of her genius and power. America is great because she is good, and if America ever ceases to be good, she will cease to be great.