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Whenever someone says we need to have state sponsored religion, or prayer in schools, just think of this cartoon, and if possible show them. Ask them what they would think if their kid were forced to pray to Zeus, Elvis, Jupiter, or Saturn.
When they say that would be wrong b/c those gods aren't the "real" God, ask them why their belief is worth more than their neighbors, and remind them of the first amendment and how it states "Congress shall make no law respecting the establishment of religion". Also, remind them that Thomas Jefferson, the author of the Declaration of Independence, was for the separation of church and state, and at times was called an non-christian by his political advesaries, while James Madison, the father of the US Constitution, helped draft the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, which disestablished the Church of England, and disclaimed any power of state compulsion in religious matters. If the primary authors of the two founding documents of this country worked and fought for the seperation of Church and State, how can we now have state sponsored religion?
Even though no one wants a true state-sponsored religion...they want a culturally sponsored religion. In Alabama it is Christianity...or some type of Christian Conservatism - politically speaking. It is our "heritage," it is said.
ReplyDeleteThere is also the idea that our country is NOW "Christian" and people don't want that to change by providing healthcare for everyone and seeing government actually provide for the needs of some of the less lucky.
Preaching to the choir...but IF the Church...and even organized religion did it, then the government, as an institution, wouldn't "have to." BUT...maybe the government is a better conduit to provide for this since religious groups seem to think first about spreading their doctrine through their words and creeds rather than first spreading it through their actions.
St. Francis of Assisi said, "Preach the gospel at all times -- If necessary, use words."