The Separation of Church and State

Our founders had much to say about God’s place in government.

Situation
Contrary to popular opinion, the term “separation of church and state” is found nowhere in the United States Constitution, the Declaration of Independence, or any other founding document of this nation.  Yet for decades, some organizations and individuals have spread the myth that the words “separation of church and state” are found in the U.S. Constitution.  Because of this misinformation, the ACLU and its allies have used this phrase to persuade public officials to silence religious expression.

Context
It was the intention of the Founding Fathers that religious faith should be encouraged, rather than discouraged.  Unfortunately, there are those today who would ignore this history of America, and the intentions of our founders.  ADF stands ready and willing to educate public officials on the true meaning of the First Amendment and help them stand up to the misinformation, intimidation, and fear used by the ACLU to silence the public expression of religious faith.

Opposition
Americans United for the Separation of Church and State – “Separation of church and state is the only principle that can ensure religious and philosophical freedom for all Americans.”

ACLU – “The establishment clause requires the separation of church and state.” 

Freedom from Religion Foundation – “[The Freedom From Religion Foundation’s] purposes, as stated in its bylaws, are to promote the constitutional principle of separation of state and church, and to educate the public on matters relating to nontheism.”

People for the American Way – “[We] have fought resolutely over the past two decades to defend these principles and to preserve the wall of separation between church and state established by the First Amendment.” 

Allies
Family Research Council – “But much evidence, as set forth above, argues that the “wall” has been used in ways–rhetorically and substantively–that its architect almost certainly would not have recognized and, perhaps, would have repudiated.” 

WallBuilders – “Thomas Jefferson had no intention of allowing the government to limit, restrict, regulate, or interfere with public religious practices.”  

See more ADF Allies.

Related Links

6th Circuit Court of Appeals: First Amendment does not demand wall between church and state

America’s Founders Acknowledged God

The True Meaning of the First Amendment

A wall to protect, or imprison?

ADF announces program of free legal advice and guidelines to churches, pastors, and priests

Read “The Truth About Separation of Church and State” (.pdf) or (order this pamphlet)

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Source: Alliance Defense Fund