Church and State

The question of the separation of church and state is never ending. Those in favor of including more religion in government will say that "separation of church and state" is not in the Constitution. They are correct, those exact words are not to be found there. However, the "establishment clause" and the "free exercise clause" are in the First Amendment: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof." Basically, they state that the government shall not establish a religion and that the government shall not do anything to prohibit the free exercise of religion. So far, this country has done pretty well in keeping religion out of government. But, there are always those who want to infuse their religion into government and schools. This country was not founded on the Christian religion. (see Quote of the Week). Yes, it's true that the founders were Christian, but they were wise enough not to force their views on the country, but to allow freedom of religion, a freedom they did not have in Europe where there were state religions. Those who see a breakdown in society and our youth, blame taking the 10 Commandments out of school as the reason. A more valid reason would be the breakdown of the family. I, for one, don't need or want the school to teach my child values and relgious principles. That is too great a responsibility to leave to the schools. If anyone has a doubt as to the effect of a government forcing religion on its people, look at Afghanistan and the Taliban. Look at Iran. If we have more religion in government, there will be less tolerance and more persecution, however subtle, of people who have different views. Leave religion to our churches and families and America will be just fine.