The doctrine of separation of church and state was put in place to protect everyone’s beliefs, not just those of Christians. The founding fathers knew of the persecution people all over the world were going through just because their beliefs did not coincide with those of the church and government leaders. Even in this country, people were burned at the stake and called witches because of their beliefs.
One needs only to read a history book or two to discover the sorry record of organized religion. Man has and continues to perpetrate the most outrageous atrocities against his fellow man, all in the name of religion. You have Catholics against Protestants in England and Ireland, Hindus against Muslims in Pakistan and India, Muslims against Jews and Christians in the Middle East, etc. Most of our wars have been the result of religious intolerance.
Why can’t our Christian friends just be happy to live in a country that protects their right to go the church of their choice and believe whatever they want? Why do they constantly have to try to ram their beliefs down the throats of others? How would they like the Pledge of Allegiance to read “one nation under Allah”?
I’m proud of the founding fathers’ foresight, which makes the beliefs of Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus, Agnostics and yes, even atheists, just as important as those of Christians. They also insured that no religious fanatics would impose their will on the rest of us. How would you like for your church to have to start paying income and property taxes?
Arlington,
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
