In a message dated 7/13/07 12:56:24 P.M. Central Daylight Time, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes:
If "all men by nature are equally free and independent,If "all m be considered as retaining an "equal right to free exercise of religion, according to dictates of conscience." While we assert for ourselves a freedom to embrace, to profess, and to observe, the religion which we believe to be of divine origin, we cannot deny an equal freedom to those whose minds have not yet yielded to the evidence which has convinced us... Experience witnesseth that ecclesiastical establishments, instead of maintaining the purity and efficacy of religion, have had contrary operation. During almost fifteen centuries has the legal establishment of Christianity been on trial. What have been its fruits? More or less, in all places, pride and indolence in the clergy, ignorance and servility in the laity; in both, superstition, bigotry, and persecution.se What influences, in fact, have ecclesiastical establishments had on civil society? In some instances they have been seen to erect a spiritual tyranny on the ruins of civil authority; in many instances they have been seen upholding the thrones of political tyranny; in no instance have they been seen the guardians of liberties of the people. Rulers who wish to subvert the public liberty may have found an established clergy convenient auxiliaries. A just government instituted to secure and perpetuate it, needs them not. ~~ James Madison They key to this entire quote is in the second to the last sentence. "Rulers who wish to subvert the public liberty may have found an established clergy convenient axillaries." Exactly what Jefferson was describing to the Baptists of Danbury. No state established religion or denomination but freedom for all to practice any religion they choose. Which means the people can elect representatives to reflect their values and if they are Biblically based or based on the Koran or Gita or on secularism so be it. This is Democracy and it reflects the will of the people. ************************************** Get a sneak peak of the all-new AOL at http://discover.aol.com/memed/aolcom30tour
