"They claim a religious orientation, but there seems to be dishonesty"
This is one of the main aspects that troubles me. You know that a committed Christian should have a clear mind and be able to face reality without fear. A Christian should be able to live a life of joy, whatever the circumstances.
Since I don't find any problem with believing God is the Creator and evolution is a fact, it seems to be a more secure faith involved that allows rationality. So the idea that fear is involved in the literalist view has merit.
If we are correct, that fear is involved, then perhaps we should work on diminishing the fear and making it safe to curiously rather than defensively explore the scientists' positions.