We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. – Declaration of Independence
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. – First Amendment
Today is the start of the Fortnight for Freedom. From today through July 4, the Bishops are asking all Americans to pray and speak out on behalf of our most fundamental freedom, as so beautifully proclaimed in our nation’s founding documents.
We often hear references to the “separation between Church and State” and the need to maintain a wall between the two. Perhaps we forget the purpose of the wall. It is not a wall around religion to keep it out of the public square; the wall is to keep the state contained so it doesn’t infringe on the practice of religion.
Celebrate your right to practice your faith. Protect that right and keep America the beacon of freedom for all the world.
