Keith, I think that the problem is in communication. Often I have read statements like repeating a certain chant, making offerings, flowers and incense will gain you merit. Also it is certainly possible to know everything about ritual and nothing about the real heart of Buddhism. When I first began investigating the rituals I was not told that and I have not found that there is any magic power bowing to an altar, making offerings or lighting candles and incense. In performing a ritual there is no " force " outside which I am willing or seeking to come to my aid and give me empowerment or move me toawrds enlightenment. Maturity and growth is not something that can be possessed, not something that can be given to you.