Quotes about separation-of-church-and-state
The concept of "separation of church and state" represents a foundational principle in modern governance, advocating for the distinct and independent operation of religious institutions and government entities. This principle is rooted in the belief that religious freedom and governmental neutrality are essential for a fair and just society. It ensures that individuals can practice their faith without interference from the state, while also preventing religious groups from wielding undue influence over governmental policies. People are drawn to quotes about this topic because they encapsulate the ongoing dialogue about the balance between personal beliefs and public policy. These quotes often provoke thought and reflection, challenging individuals to consider the implications of intertwining religion with state affairs. In a world where diverse beliefs coexist, the separation of church and state remains a vital discussion point, highlighting the importance of maintaining a society where all voices are heard and respected. This topic resonates with those who value both religious freedom and the integrity of democratic institutions, making it a compelling subject for exploration and debate.
In politics, as in religion, it is equally absurd to aim at making proselytes by fire and sword. Heresies in either can rarely be cured by persecution.
A government cannot be premised on the belief that all persons are created equal when it asserts that god prefers some
[W]hen they have opened a gap in the hedge or wall of Separation between the Garden of the Church and the Wildernes of the world, God hath ever broke down the wall it selfe, removed the Candlestick, &c. and made his Garden a Wildernesse, as at this day.
Roger Williams died sometime during the early months of 1683. Some of what he said and wrote during his lifetime belongs to the seventeenth century. But much of his historical and philosophical record speaks to us across the centuries.
Encourage free schools and resolve that not one dollar of money appropriated to their support no matter how raised, shall be appropriated to the support of any sectarian school...Leave the matter of religion to the family circle, the church & the private school support[ed] entirely by private contribution. Keep the church and state forever separate.
The phrase ‘separation of church and state,’ which appears in no founding document (only in a letter written by Thomas Jefferson), means that America must never have a state religion, not that the state be indifferent to religion.
[T]here remains [in some parts of the country] a strong bias towards the old error, that without some sort of alliance or coalition between Govt. & Religion neither can be duly supported. Such indeed is the tendency to such a coalition, and such its corrupting influence on both parties, that the danger cannot be too carefully guarded agst.
The divorce between Church and State ought to be absolute. It ought to be so absolute that no Church property anywhere, in any state or in the nation, should be exempt from equal taxation; for if you exempt the property of any church organization, to that extent you impose a tax upon the whole community.
Freedom prospers when religion is vibrant and the rule of law under God is acknowledged.