As I recall, Copernicus was not welcomed with open arms by the Church. Mendel, I am not sure of, although I agree he was a genius.
Read and learn:
Nicolaus Copernicus
As with Galileo, the Church objected to proclamations of the certainty of the theory in Copernicus's work. Much like the modern peer-review process, the Church was very skeptical of novel ideas. And when you look at the history of science, there have been a lot more cranks with wrong ideas that led nowhere than geniuses with innovative new ones.
You err that use of evolution to promote Godlessness is widespread. Many are able to see the two as co-existing.
OK, I'll take your word for it over the testimony of my lyin' eyes and ears.
'tis not your eyes and ears that lie but thy perceptions.
True that there are many a crank in science, but not many keep up the charade after 150 years. Especially in such an open environment as today. (or do you actually believe the 16th century was more tolerant of unconventional opinions)