Your assumption is there is only one universe. Read these articles:
http://www.thestate.com/mld/state/ne...on/4393213.htm
http://www.space.com/scienceastronom..._020205-1.html
The religious aspect of your post will not be explored here. There are other opinions and theories that may be controversial or will upset many people.
Read the book "Timeless Reality" if you get a chance.