| Topic: |
Sociology > Education |
| User: |
"Wide Eyed in Wonder" |
| Date: |
25 Jan 2008 09:52:48 AM |
| Object: |
Alabama Constitution illegal for acknowledging a Creator? |
Is the Alabama Constitution illegal for the following section...
SECTION 1
Equality and rights of men
"That all men are equally free and independent; that
they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable
rights; that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit
of happiness."
In this section, the Alabama Constitution officially recognized a
creator, which is something many are objecting to public school
science texts for doing. If it is wrong for the schools to do, it
must be wrong for the state, too...right? (note: the states of
Indiana, Louisiana, North Carolina, the US Declaration of
Independence, Thomas Jefferson, William H Harrison, Dwight D
Eisenhower, and others likewise officially recognize a "creator" in
official speeches, Constitutions, and texts)
Kenneth Clifton
christiansuperhero.com
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| User: "" |
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| Title: Re: Alabama Constitution illegal for acknowledging a Creator? |
26 Jan 2008 11:11:51 AM |
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On Fri, 25 Jan 2008 07:52:48 -0800 (PST), Wide Eyed in Wonder
<kands00@hotmail.com> wrote:
Is the Alabama Constitution illegal for the following section...
SECTION 1
Equality and rights of men
"That all men are equally free and independent; that
they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable
rights; that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit
of happiness."
In this section, the Alabama Constitution officially recognized a
creator, which is something many are objecting to public school
science texts for doing. If it is wrong for the schools to do, it
must be wrong for the state, too...right? (note: the states of
Indiana, Louisiana, North Carolina, the US Declaration of
Independence, Thomas Jefferson, William H Harrison, Dwight D
Eisenhower, and others likewise officially recognize a "creator" in
official speeches, Constitutions, and texts)
Kenneth Clifton
christiansuperhero.com
You're equating "creator" with a specific religious interpretation of
God. To which God are you referring? In the case of the Constitution
it's a generic one - read Jefferson for his take. You know, the guy
that Adams called Godless. If any state or municipality seeks to make
this 'creator' the Christian one (or Muslim, or ad nauseum) and then
teach or refer to it as public policy and/or fact, then 'creator' gets
tossed out on its *****. Comprende?
WB Yeats
What a Chistian super-hero? One who leaps crosses with a single bound?
For that matter, what the hell is a Christ besides somebody's fantasy.
It certainly isn't fact.
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| User: "Wide Eyed in Wonder" |
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| Title: Re: Alabama Constitution illegal for acknowledging a Creator? |
26 Jan 2008 12:38:15 PM |
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On Jan 26, 11:11 am, wrote:
On Fri, 25 Jan 2008 07:52:48 -0800 (PST), Wide Eyed in Wonder
<kand...@hotmail.com> wrote:
Is the Alabama Constitution illegal for the following section...
SECTION 1
Equality and rights of men
"That all men are equally free and independent; that
they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable
rights; that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit
of happiness."
In this section, the Alabama Constitution officially recognized a
creator, which is something many are objecting to public school
science texts for doing. If it is wrong for the schools to do, it
must be wrong for the state, too...right? (note: the states of
Indiana, Louisiana, North Carolina, the US Declaration of
Independence, Thomas Jefferson, William H Harrison, Dwight D
Eisenhower, and others likewise officially recognize a "creator" in
official speeches, Constitutions, and texts)
Kenneth Clifton
christiansuperhero.com
You're equating "creator" with a specific religious interpretation of
God. To which God are you referring? In the case of the Constitution
it's a generic one - read Jefferson for his take. You know, the guy
that Adams called Godless. If any state or municipality seeks to make
this 'creator' the Christian one (or Muslim, or ad nauseum) and then
teach or refer to it as public policy and/or fact, then 'creator' gets
tossed out on its *****. Comprende?
Irrelevant to the post. Is Alabama illegal to acknowledge the creator
or not?
Kenneth Clifton
christiansuperhero.com
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| User: "JSM" |
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| Title: Re: Alabama Constitution illegal for acknowledging a Creator? |
31 Jan 2008 12:19:36 PM |
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On Jan 26, 10:38 am, Wide Eyed in Wonder <writing...@yahoo.com> wrote:
On Jan 26, 11:11 am, wrote:
On Fri, 25 Jan 2008 07:52:48 -0800 (PST), Wide Eyed in Wonder
<kand...@hotmail.com> wrote:
Is the Alabama Constitution illegal for the following section...
SECTION 1
Equality and rights of men
"That all men are equally free and independent; that
they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable
rights; that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit
of happiness."
In this section, the Alabama Constitution officially recognized a
creator, which is something many are objecting to public school
science texts for doing. If it is wrong for the schools to do, it
must be wrong for the state, too...right? (note: the states of
Indiana, Louisiana, North Carolina, the US Declaration of
Independence, Thomas Jefferson, William H Harrison, Dwight D
Eisenhower, and others likewise officially recognize a "creator" in
official speeches, Constitutions, and texts)
Kenneth Clifton
christiansuperhero.com
You're equating "creator" with a specific religious interpretation of
God. To which God are you referring? In the case of the Constitution
it's a generic one - read Jefferson for his take. You know, the guy
that Adams called Godless. If any state or municipality seeks to make
this 'creator' the Christian one (or Muslim, or ad nauseum) and then
teach or refer to it as public policy and/or fact, then 'creator' gets
tossed out on its *****. Comprende?
Irrelevant to the post. Is Alabama illegal to acknowledge the creator
or not?
Kenneth Clifton
christiansuperhero.com
The whole BS of an "invisible super hero" has th potential to destroy
civilization as we know it. We are more or less obligated because of
our laws to allow the Moslems to set up "churches" in our country yet
the Koran states it is their ultimate goal to dominate the world and
kill the disbelievers of Islam. It says that, it so many words.
Actually to Koran (what I know of it) reads more like a political
manifesto than a religion. So when do we say something is a religion
and something is politics? I have trouble understanding why it is so
important for people to believe in their own particular favorite
"invisible super hero" when plain ol common sense would tell you it is
quite literally a fairy tale. I only bring up Islam because it is
religion at an extreme but it is a clear illustration of the dangers
religion bring us.
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| User: "Wide Eyed in Wonder" |
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| Title: Re: Alabama Constitution illegal for acknowledging a Creator? |
31 Jan 2008 12:22:32 PM |
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On Jan 31, 12:19 pm, JSM <ekrub...@gmail.com> wrote:
On Jan 26, 10:38 am, Wide Eyed in Wonder <writing...@yahoo.com> wrote:
On Jan 26, 11:11 am, wrote:
On Fri, 25 Jan 2008 07:52:48 -0800 (PST), Wide Eyed in Wonder
<kand...@hotmail.com> wrote:
Is the Alabama Constitution illegal for the following section...
SECTION 1
Equality and rights of men
"That all men are equally free and independent; that
they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable
rights; that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit
of happiness."
In this section, the Alabama Constitution officially recognized a
creator, which is something many are objecting to public school
science texts for doing. If it is wrong for the schools to do, it
must be wrong for the state, too...right? (note: the states of
Indiana, Louisiana, North Carolina, the US Declaration of
Independence, Thomas Jefferson, William H Harrison, Dwight D
Eisenhower, and others likewise officially recognize a "creator" in
official speeches, Constitutions, and texts)
Kenneth Clifton
christiansuperhero.com
You're equating "creator" with a specific religious interpretation of
God. To which God are you referring? In the case of the Constitution
it's a generic one - read Jefferson for his take. You know, the guy
that Adams called Godless. If any state or municipality seeks to make
this 'creator' the Christian one (or Muslim, or ad nauseum) and then
teach or refer to it as public policy and/or fact, then 'creator' gets
tossed out on its *****. Comprende?
Irrelevant to the post. Is Alabama illegal to acknowledge the creator
or not?
Kenneth Clifton
christiansuperhero.com
The whole BS of an "invisible super hero" has th potential to destroy
civilization as we know it. We are more or less obligated because of
our laws to allow the Moslems to set up "churches" in our country yet
the Koran states it is their ultimate goal to dominate the world and
kill the disbelievers of Islam. It says that, it so many words.
Actually to Koran (what I know of it) reads more like a political
manifesto than a religion. So when do we say something is a religion
and something is politics? I have trouble understanding why it is so
important for people to believe in their own particular favorite
"invisible super hero" when plain ol common sense would tell you it is
quite literally a fairy tale. I only bring up Islam because it is
religion at an extreme but it is a clear illustration of the dangers
religion bring us.
Irrelevant. Answer the question.
Kenneth Clifton
christiansuperhero.com
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| User: "FACE" |
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| Title: Re: Alabama Constitution illegal for acknowledging a Creator? |
25 Jan 2008 01:07:58 PM |
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On Fri, 25 Jan 2008 07:52:48 -0800 (PST), for Alabama Constitution illegal
for acknowledging a Creator?, in alt.politics Wide Eyed in Wonder
<kands00@hotmail.com>, wrote:
Is the Alabama Constitution illegal for the following section...
SECTION 1
Equality and rights of men
"That all men are equally free and independent; that
they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable
rights; that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit
of happiness."
In this section, the Alabama Constitution officially recognized a
creator, which is something many are objecting to public school
science texts for doing. If it is wrong for the schools to do, it
must be wrong for the state, too...right? (note: the states of
Indiana, Louisiana, North Carolina, the US Declaration of
Independence, Thomas Jefferson, William H Harrison, Dwight D
Eisenhower, and others likewise officially recognize a "creator" in
official speeches, Constitutions, and texts)
Kenneth Clifton
christiansuperhero.com
At least one other state that you forgot is the California constitution.
FACE
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| User: "Jd" |
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| Title: Re: Alabama Constitution illegal for acknowledging a Creator? |
31 Jan 2008 06:49:51 PM |
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FACE wrote:
On Fri, 25 Jan 2008 07:52:48 -0800 (PST), for Alabama Constitution illegal
for acknowledging a Creator?, in alt.politics Wide Eyed in Wonder
<kands00@hotmail.com>, wrote:
Is the Alabama Constitution illegal for the following section...
SECTION 1
Equality and rights of men
"That all men are equally free and independent; that
they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable
rights; that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit
of happiness."
In this section, the Alabama Constitution officially recognized a
creator, which is something many are objecting to public school
science texts for doing. If it is wrong for the schools to do, it
must be wrong for the state, too...right? (note: the states of
Indiana, Louisiana, North Carolina, the US Declaration of
Independence, Thomas Jefferson, William H Harrison, Dwight D
Eisenhower, and others likewise officially recognize a "creator" in
official speeches, Constitutions, and texts)
Kenneth Clifton
christiansuperhero.com
At least one other state that you forgot is the California constitution.
FACE
Every state in the USA acknowledges God in it's official documents as have every President who has
ever held office. There is no God but the God of Israel, as even pagan rulers are on record as
acknowledging. I realize however, that in our nation which is quickly becoming a lezbiNation of
feminists and wimps... that truths like the aforementioned are quite discomforting.
For your reference concerning the above statement...
Daniel 3:28-29 "Then Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and
Abednego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed
the king's word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except
their own God. Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak any
thing amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces, and their
houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort."
Alabama 1901, Preamble. We the people of the State of Alabama, invoking the favor and guidance of
Almighty God, do ordain and establish the following Constitution ..
Alaska 1956, Preamble. We, the people of Alaska, grateful to God and to those who founded our nation
and pioneered this great land ..
Arizona 1911, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Arizona, grateful to Almighty God for our
liberties, do ordain this Constitution...
Arkansas 1874, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Arkansas, grateful to Almighty God for the
privilege of choosing our own form of government...
California 1879, Preamble. We, the People of the State of California,
grateful to Almighty God for our freedom .
Colorado 1876, Preamble. We, the people of Colorado, with profound reverence for the Supreme Ruler
of Universe .
Connecticut 1818, Preamble. The People of Connecticut, acknowledging with gratitude the good
Providence of God in permitting them to enjoy ...
Delaware 1897, Preamble. Through Divine Goodness all men have, by nature, the rights of worshipping
and serving their Creator according to the dictates of their consciences .
Florida 1845, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Florida, grateful to Almighty God for our
constitutional liberty ... establish this Constitution...
Georgia 1777, Preamble. We, the people of Georgia, relying upon protection and guidance of Almighty
God, do ordain and establish this Constitution...
Hawaii 1959, Preamble. We, the people of Hawaii, Grateful for Divine
Guidance . establish this Constitution
Idaho 1889, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Idaho, grateful to Almighty God for our
freedom, to secure its blessings ..
Illinois 1870, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Illinois, grateful to Almighty God for the
civil, political and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy and looking to
Him for a blessing on our endeavors.
Indiana 1851, Preamble. We, the People of the State of Indiana, grateful to Almighty God for the
free exercise of the right to chose our form of government..
Iowa 1857, Preamble. We, the People of the State of Iowa, grateful to the Supreme Being for the
blessings hitherto enjoyed, and feeling our dependence on Him for a continuation of these blessings
.... establish this Constitution
Kansas 1859, Preamble. We, the people of Kansas, grateful to Almighty God for our civil and
religious privileges . establish this Constitution.
Kentucky 1891, Preamble. We, the people of the Commonwealth of grateful to Almighty God for the
civil, political and religious liberties...
Louisiana 1921, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Louisiana, grateful to Almighty God for the
civil, political and religious liberties we enjoy ..
Maine 1820, Preamble. We the People of Maine .. acknowledging with grateful hearts the goodness of
the Sovereign Ruler of the Universe in affording us an opportunity ... and imploring His aid and
direction
Maryland 1776, Preamble. We, the people of the state of Maryland, grateful to Almighty God or our
civil and religious liberty...
Massachusetts 1780, Preamble. We...the people of Massachusetts,
acknowledging with grateful hearts, the goodness of the Great Legislator of the Universe...in the
course of His Providence, an opportunity and devoutly imploring His direction ...
Michigan 1908, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Michigan, grateful to Almighty God for the
blessings of freedom ... establish this Constitution
Minnesota, 1857, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Minnesota,
grateful to God for our civil and religious liberty, and desiring to
perpetuate its blessings
Mississippi 1890, Preamble. We, the people of Mississippi in convention assembled, grateful to
Almighty God, and invoking His blessing on our work.
Missouri 1845, Preamble. We, the people of Missouri, with profound reverence for the Supreme Ruler
of the Universe, and grateful for His goodness ...establish this Constitution ..
Montana 1889, Preamble. We, the people of Montana, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of
liberty establish this Constitution ..
Nebraska 1875, Preamble. We, the people, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom .. establish this
Constitution
Nevada 1864, Preamble. We the people of the State of Nevada, grateful to Almighty God for our
freedom . establish this Constitution ..
New Hampshire 1792, Part I. Art. I. Sec. V. Every individual has a natural and unalienable right to
worship God according to the dictates of his own conscience .
New Jersey 1844, Preamble. We, the people of the State of New Jersey,
grateful to Almighty God for civil and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to
enjoy, and looking to Him for a blessing on our endeavors.
New Mexico 1911, Preamble. We, the People of New Mexico, grateful to
Almighty God for the blessings of liberty ..
New York 1846, Preamble. We, the people of the State of New York, grateful to Almighty God for our
freedom, in order to secure its blessings .
North Carolina 1868, Preamble. We the people of the State of North Carolina, grateful to Almighty
God, the Sovereign Ruler of Nations, for our civil, political, and religious liberties, and
acknowledging our dependence upon Him for the continuance of those
North Dakota 1889, Preamble. We, the people of North Dakota, grateful to Almighty God for the
blessings of civil and religious liberty, do ordain...
Ohio 1852, Preamble. We the people of the state of Ohio, grateful to
Almighty God for our freedom, to secure its blessings and to promote our common..
Oklahoma 1907, Preamble. Invoking the guidance of Almighty God, in order to secure and perpetuate
the blessings of liberty ... establish this
Oregon 1857, Bill of Rights, Article I. Section 2. All men shall be secure in the Natural right, to
worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their consciences .
Pennsylvania 1776, Preamble. We, the people of Pennsylvania, grateful to Almighty God for the
blessings of civil and religious liberty, and humbly invoking His guidance
Rhode Island 1842, Preamble. We the People of the State of Rhode Island grateful to Almighty God for
the civil and religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy, and looking to Him for
a blessing
South Carolina, 1778, Preamble. We, the people of the State of South
Carolina grateful to God for our liberties, do ordain and establish this Constitution
South Dakota 1889, Preamble. We, the people of South Dakota, grateful to Almighty God for our civil
and religious liberties . establish this
Tennessee 1796, Art. XI.III. That all men have a natural and indefeasible right to worship Almighty
God according to the dictates of their conscience...
Texas 1845, Preamble. We the People of the Republic of Texas, acknowledging, with gratitude, the
grace and beneficence of God
Utah 1896, Preamble. Grateful to Almighty God for life and liberty, we
establish this Constitution .
Vermont 1777, Preamble. Whereas all government ought to ... enable the
individuals who compose it to enjoy their natural rights, and other
blessings which the Author of Existence has bestowed on man ...
Virginia 1776, Bill of Rights, XVI ... Religion, or the Duty which we owe our Creator . can be
directed only by Reason ... and that it is the mutual duty of all to practice Christian Forbearance,
Love and Charity towards each other...
Washington 1889, Preamble. We the People of the State of Washington,
grateful to the Supreme Ruler of the Universe for our liberties, do ordain this Constitution .
West Virginia 1872, Preamble. Since through Divine Providence we enjoy the blessings of civil,
political and religious liberty, we, the people of West Virginia .. reaffirm our faith in and
constant reliance upon God .
Wisconsin 1848, Preamble. We, the people of Wisconsin, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom,
domestic tranquility
Wyoming 1890, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Wyoming, grateful to God for our civil,
political, and religious liberties ... establish this Constitution .
IN THE Supreme Court of the United States
ELK GROVE UNITED SCHOOL DISTRICT
and DAVID W. GORDEN,Petitioners,
v.
MICHAEL A. NEWDOW, Respondent.
On Writ of Certiorari to the
United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit
"Every President of the United States, since Washington,
has taken the Oath of Office with his hand placed upon the
Bible. Engle v. Vitale, 370 U.S. 421, 436 (1962)."
"EveryPresident has ended his Oath with, "So help me, God." Id. At
436. "
"Every President, without exception, has acknowledged
God upon entering office"
George Washington, 1st, "... that Almighty Being who
rules over the universe..." Paul M. Angle, ed., By These Words,
Washington’s First Inaugural Address, April 30. 1789, p.185
(1954), citing James D. Richardson, A Compilation of the
Messages and Papers of the Presidents, 1789-1897
(Washington, 1899), VI, pp. 445-59;
John Adams, 2nd, "... that Being who is supreme over
all, the Patron of Order, the Fountain of Justice..." Inaugural
Addresses of the Presidents of the United States (1989);
Thomas Jefferson, 3rd, "And may that Infinite Power
which rules the destinies of the universe lead our councils to
what is best, and give them a favorable issue for your peace and
prosperity." Angle, Jefferson’s First Inaugural Address, March
4, 1801, p.226 (1954); Lee v. Weisman, 505 U.S. 577, 634
(1992), citing Inaugural Addresses of the Presidents, S. Doc.
101-10, p. 17;
James Madison, 4th, "... that Almighty Being whose
power regulates the destiny of nations, whose blessings have
been so conspicuously dispensed to this rising Republic, and to
whom we are bound to address our devout gratitude for the
past, as well as our fervent supplications and best hopes for the
future." Lee v. Weisman, 505 U.S. at 634, citing Inaugural
Addresses at p. 28;
James Monroe, 5th, "... with a firm reliance on the
protection of Almighty God..." Inaugural Addresses;
John Quincy Adams, 6th, "... knowing that ‘Except the
Lord keep the city, the watchman waketh in vain’..." Id.;
Andrew Jackson, 7th, "... my fervent prayer to that
Almighty Being before whom I now stand..." Id.;
Martin Van Buren, 8th, "... that Divine Being whose
strengthening support I humbly solicit..." Id.;
William Henry Harrison, 9th, "... the Beneficent Creator
has made no distinction amongst men..." Id.;
John Tyler, 10th, "... the all-wise and all-powerful Being
who made me..." Id.;
James Polk, 11th, "... in their worship of the Almighty
according to the dictates of their own conscience..." Id.;
Zachary Taylor, 12th, "... to which the goodness of
Divine Providence has conducted our common country..." Id.;
Millard Fillmore, 13th, "... it has pleased Almighty God
to remove from this life Zachary Taylor..." Id.;
Franklin Pierce, 14th, "... humble, acknowledged
dependence upon God and His overruling providence..." Id.;
James Buchanan, 15th, "In entering upon this great
office I must humbly invoke the God of our fathers..." Id.;
Abraham Lincoln, 16th, "Intelligence, patriotism,
Christianity, and a firm reliance on Him, who has never yet
forsaken this favored land, are still competent to adjust, in the
best way, all our present difficulty." Angle, By These Words,
Lincoln’s First Inaugural Address, March 4, 1861 at 305.
Andrew Johnson, 17th, "... grief on earth which can only
be assuaged by communion with the Father in heaven..."
Inaugural Addresses;
Ulysses S. Grant, 18th, "I do believe that our Great
Maker is preparing the world, in His own good time..." Id.;
Rutherford B. Hayes, 19th, "... guidance of that Divine
Hand by which the destinies of nations and individuals are
shaped..."Id.;
James Garfield, 20th, "... their fathers’ God that the
Union was preserved, that slavery was overthrown..." Id.;
Chester Arthur, 21st, "I assume the trust imposed by the
Constitution, relying for aid on Divine Guidance..." Id.;
Grover Cleveland, 22nd, "... the power and goodness of
Almighty God who presides over the destiny of nations..." Id.;
Benjamin Harrison, 23rd, "... invoke and confidently
extend the favor and help of Almighty God - that He will give
me wisdom..." Id.;
Grover Cleveland, 24th, "I know there is a Supreme
Being who rules the affairs of men and whose goodness and
mercy have..."
William McKinley, 25th, "Our faith teaches that there
is no safer reliance than upon the God of our fathers..." Id.;
Theodore Roosevelt, 26th, "... with gratitude to the
Giver of Good who has blessed us with the conditions which
have enabled us..." Id.;
Howard Taft, 27th, "... support of my fellow-citizens
and the aid of the Almighty God in the discharge of my
responsible duties..." Id.;
Woodrow Wilson, 28th, "I summon all honest men, all
patriotic men, all froward-looking men, to my side. God
helping me, I will not fail them, if they will but counsel and
sustain me!" Angle, By These Words, Wilson’s First Inaugural
Address, March 4, 1913 at 423.
Warren G. Harding, 29th, "... that passage of Holy Writ
wherein it is asked: "What doth the Lord require of thee..."
Inaugural Addresses;
Calvin Coolidge, 30th, "[America] cherishes no purpose
save to merit the favor of Almighty God..." Id.;
Herbert Hoover, 31st, "I beg your tolerance, your aid,
and your cooperation. I ask the help of Almighty God..." Id.;
Franklin D. Roosevelt, 32nd, "In this dedication of a
nation we humbly ask the blessing of God..." Id.;
Harry S. Truman, 33rd, "... all men are created equal
because they are created in the image of God..." Id.;
Dwight D. Eisenhower, 34th, "At such a time in history,
we who are free must proclaim anew our faith. This faith is the
abiding creed of our fathers. It is our faith in the deathless
dignity of man, governed by eternal moral and natural laws.
This faith defines our fill view of life. It establishes, beyond
debate, those gifts of the Creator that are man’s inalienable
rights, and that make all men equal in His sight ... The enemies
of this faith know no god but force, no devotion but its use...
Whatever defies them, they torture, especially the truth. Here,
then, is no argument between slightly differing philosophies.
This conflict strikes directly at the faith of our fathers and the
lives of our sons... This is the work that awaits us all, to be done
with bravery, with charity, and with prayer to Almighty God."
Angle, By These Words, Eisenhower’s Inaugural Address,
January 20, 1953 at 532.
John F. Kennedy, 35th, "... the rights of man come not
from the generosity of the state but from the hand of God..."
Engle v. Vitale, 370 U.S. at 448.
Lyndon B. Johnson, 36th, "... the judgement of God is
harshest on those who are most favored..." Inaugural
Addresses;
Richard M. Nixon, 37th, "... as all are born equal in
dignity before God, all are born equal in dignity before
man..."Id.;
Gerald Ford, 38th, "... to uphold the Constitution, to do
what is right as God gives me to see the right..." Id.;
Jimmy Carter, 39th, "...what does the Lord require of
thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly
with thy God..." Id.;
Ronald Reagan, 40th, "... one people under God,
dedicated to the dream of freedom that He has placed in the
human heart..."Id.;
George Bush, 41st, "Heavenly Father, we bow our heads
and thank You for Your love..." Id.;
Bill Clinton, 42nd, "... with God’s help, we must answer
the call..." Id.;
George W. Bush, 43rd, "... this story’s Author, Who fills
time and eternity with His purpose..." Id.
Jd - (ZionsFire)
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| User: "Bob LeChevalier" |
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| Title: Re: Alabama Constitution illegal for acknowledging a Creator? |
31 Jan 2008 09:25:10 PM |
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Jd <ZionsFire@att.net> wrote:
Every state in the USA acknowledges God in it's official documents as have every President who has
ever held office. There is no God but the God of Israel,
The official documents in question don't say what God (or creator, or
whatever) they are acknowledging. Your beliefs are irrelevant, as are
mine. If an Indian document acknowledges God, it is not acknowledging
the God of Israel. Alabama likewise is not Israel, so one cannot
presume that the Alabama constitution is mootly referring to any
particular Creator that any particular person might choose to believe
in.
Historically I suspect that the original owners of Alabama, the Creek
Indians, had a different idea of their Creator.
as even pagan rulers are on record as acknowledging.
A pagan ruler does not acknowledge that the ONLY god is the God of
Israel.
lojbab
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| User: "Jd" |
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| Title: Re: Alabama Constitution illegal for acknowledging a Creator? |
03 Feb 2008 12:01:42 AM |
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Bob LeChevalier wrote:
Jd <ZionsFire@att.net> wrote:
Every state in the USA acknowledges God in it's official documents as have every President who has
ever held office. There is no God but the God of Israel,
The official documents in question don't say what God (or creator, or
whatever) they are acknowledging. Your beliefs are irrelevant, as are
mine.
Not so. Only your beliefs are irrelevant (by your own confession)... not mine. Those official
documents which are not actually in question, acknowledge the Creator mentioned in the Declaration
of Independence which is of course the God of Israel which Christians and Jews everywhere
acknowledge.
"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)
---Amendment I - Freedom of Religion, Press, Expression. Ratified 12/15/1791.---
"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." - (The
Constitution of the United States of America)
Why would you confess that your beliefs are irrelevant when the laws here in this Christian nation
protect your right to boldly stand up and proclaim your beliefs? Not only that, but how do you
expect to engage anyone in any sort of debate here by at first declaring that your own beliefs are
irrelevant?
Your approach just doesn't make any sense unless one first accepts the notion that we are all
victims living miserable lifes of defeat.... "sinners" if you will, who have no hope atall.
Bob, I hope you understand that Christianity 101 says that "sinners" can be saved by Jesus and can
escape the misery which you seem to be promoting.
Jd
"Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away." - Jesus (Luke 21:33)
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| User: "Bob LeChevalier" |
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| Title: Re: Alabama Constitution illegal for acknowledging a Creator? |
03 Feb 2008 12:40:34 AM |
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Jd <ZionsFire@att.net> wrote:
Bob LeChevalier wrote:
Jd <ZionsFire@att.net> wrote:
Every state in the USA acknowledges God in it's official documents as have every President who has
ever held office. There is no God but the God of Israel,
The official documents in question don't say what God (or creator, or
whatever) they are acknowledging. Your beliefs are irrelevant, as are
mine.
Not so. Only your beliefs are irrelevant (by your own confession)... not mine. Those official
documents which are not actually in question, acknowledge the Creator mentioned in the Declaration
of Independence which is of course the God of Israel which Christians and Jews everywhere
acknowledge.
Where in the Declaration of Independence does it say that the
"Creator" is the God of Israel?
---Amendment I - Freedom of Religion, Press, Expression. Ratified 12/15/1791.---
"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." - (The
Constitution of the United States of America)
Why would you confess that your beliefs are irrelevant when the laws here in this Christian nation
protect your right to boldly stand up and proclaim your beliefs?
Because they are irrelevant. Just because I *can* do something
doesn't mean that I should.
Not only that, but how do you expect to engage anyone in any sort of debate here by at first declaring that your own beliefs are
irrelevant?
Why should I want to debate anyone on the basis of my beliefs? My
beliefs won't convince anyone, Verifiable facts might convince some
people. Rational argument that shows itself not to be dependent on
too many unnecessary assumptions might convince others.
Actually I am not much into debating, period. I prefer to supply
facts and puncture hypocrites and liars. Like you.
Your approach just doesn't make any sense unless one first accepts the notion that we are all
victims living miserable lifes of defeat.
Obviously, you are incapable of seeing sense.
Bob, I hope you understand that Christianity 101 says that "sinners" can be saved by Jesus and can
escape the misery which you seem to be promoting.
I don't promote misery, and Jesus is quite capable of saving sinners
without my assistance.
lojbab
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| User: "Jd" |
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| Title: Re: Alabama Constitution illegal for acknowledging a Creator? |
05 Feb 2008 08:46:03 PM |
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Bob LeChevalier wrote:
Jd <ZionsFire@att.net> wrote:
Bob LeChevalier wrote:
Jd <ZionsFire@att.net> wrote:
Every state in the USA acknowledges God in it's official documents as have every President who has
ever held office. There is no God but the God of Israel,
The official documents in question don't say what God (or creator, or
whatever) they are acknowledging. Your beliefs are irrelevant, as are
mine.
Not so. Only your beliefs are irrelevant (by your own confession)... not mine. Those official
documents which are not actually in question, acknowledge the Creator mentioned in the Declaration
of Independence which is of course the God of Israel which Christians and Jews everywhere
acknowledge.
Where in the Declaration of Independence does it say that the
"Creator" is the God of Israel?
What difference does it make to you since your views (as you've already admitted) are irrelevant?
---Amendment I - Freedom of Religion, Press, Expression. Ratified 12/15/1791.---
"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." - (The
Constitution of the United States of America)
Why would you confess that your beliefs are irrelevant when the laws here in this Christian nation
protect your right to boldly stand up and proclaim your beliefs?
Because they are irrelevant. Just because I *can* do something
doesn't mean that I should.
Fine. Stay "irrelevant" then.
Not only that, but how do you expect to engage anyone in any sort of debate here by at first declaring that your own beliefs are
irrelevant?
Why should I want to debate anyone on the basis of my beliefs? My
beliefs won't convince anyone, Verifiable facts might convince some
people. Rational argument that shows itself not to be dependent on
too many unnecessary assumptions might convince others.
Actually I am not much into debating, period. I prefer to supply
facts and puncture hypocrites and liars. Like you.
Good. Provide the "facts" concerning how many of the signers of the Declaration of Independence were
Hindus.
Your approach just doesn't make any sense unless one first accepts the notion that we are all
victims living miserable lifes of defeat.
Obviously, you are incapable of seeing sense.
I see that your "beliefs" are so weak that you've decided to hurl ad hominem assaults against anyone
whose beliefs are "strong".
Fine. That's ok. So give the official count of how many of the signers of the Declaration of
Independence were Buddhists. Then give the count of those who were Islamists.
Summary:
What is the count of DOI signers who espoused a "Creator" who were:
1) Hindus
2) Buddhists
3) Islamists
4) Wiccans
5) Jews
6) Christians
7) plain pagans
Bob you do have those facts, right? What you need to do is somehow convince everyone with your
"facts" that the Declaration of Independence was actually written by a bunch of idolaters if you do
indeed actually disagree with me that the Christian God is the God of Israel and that the
aforementioned signatories were of a Judeo-Christian background.
Before the Judeo-Christian era... humans were heavily involved in goddess worship (like the mother
earth environmental wackos of today)...
"A growing number of anthropologists and archeo-mythologists argue that the prevailing ideology of
belief in prehistoric Europe and much of the world was based on the worship of a single earth
goddess, who was assumed to be the fount of all life and who radiated harmony among all living
things." - Al Gore (Earth in the Balance; Ecology and the Human Spirit)
....... probably becuase the men back then found they could get more sex from the women if they let
them feel important.
Even the Israelites fell prey to thte goddess thing:
Jeremiah 7:16-17 "Therefore pray not thou for this people, neither lift up cry nor prayer for
them, neither make intercession to me: for I will not hear thee. Seest thou not what they do in the
cities of Judah and in the streets of Jerusalem?"
Jeremiah 7:18-19 "The children gather wood, and the fathers kindle the fire, and the women
knead their dough, to make cakes to the queen of heaven, and to pour out drink offerings unto other
gods, that they may provoke me to anger. Do they provoke me to anger? saith the Lord: do they
not provoke themselves to the confusion of their own faces?"
But for the record Bob, you do not count the Biblical record as "facts" do you?
Jd
"I have set watchmen upon thy walls, O Jerusalem, which shall never hold their peace day nor night:
ye that make mention of the Lord, keep not silence, and give him no rest, till he establish, and
till he make Jerusalem a praise in the earth." (Isaiah 62:6-7)
Bob, I hope you understand that Christianity 101 says that "sinners" can be saved by Jesus and can
escape the misery which you seem to be promoting.
I don't promote misery, and Jesus is quite capable of saving sinners
without my assistance.
lojbab
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| User: "Bob LeChevalier" |
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| Title: Re: Alabama Constitution illegal for acknowledging a Creator? |
05 Feb 2008 11:40:18 PM |
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Jd <ZionsFire@att.net> wrote:
Where in the Declaration of Independence does it say that the
"Creator" is the God of Israel?
What difference does it make to you since your views (as you've already admitted) are irrelevant?
I like to poke holes in the factoids used by others to support their
opinions, which at best are no better than mine.
Actually I am not much into debating, period. I prefer to supply
facts and puncture hypocrites and liars. Like you.
Good. Provide the "facts" concerning how many of the signers of the Declaration of Independence were
Hindus.
Why would it matter? They're dead, so their opinion matters even less
than mine.
Your approach just doesn't make any sense unless one first accepts the notion that we are all
victims living miserable lifes of defeat.
Obviously, you are incapable of seeing sense.
I see that your "beliefs" are so weak that you've decided to hurl ad hominem assaults against anyone
whose beliefs are "strong".
My assault was no more ad hominem than yours, silly.
Summary:
What is the count of DOI signers who espoused a "Creator" who were:
1) Hindus
2) Buddhists
3) Islamists
4) Wiccans
5) Jews
6) Christians
7) plain pagans
Using the definition that YOU use for Christian, probably zero for all
of the above.
Bob you do have those facts, right? What you need to do is somehow convince everyone with your
"facts" that the Declaration of Independence was actually written by a bunch of idolaters if you do
indeed actually disagree with me that the Christian God is the God of Israel
The Jews disagree with you, and He is their God.
and that the aforementioned signatories were of a Judeo-Christian background.
They were more of a secular enlightenment background.
Before the Judeo-Christian era... humans were heavily involved in goddess worship (like the mother
earth environmental wackos of today)...
They were afterwards as well.
But for the record Bob, you do not count the Biblical record as "facts" do you?
It is a fact that the Bible contains words. It is opinion, which of
those words report facts, which report the opinion of the human
author, which are interpretations of the opinions of others, and which
are Christian apologetics ("spin" in modern parlance).
That there are numerous quotes from Jesus Christ which resemble each
other but differ in minor ways amongst the gospels, it is clear that
the book cannot even be accurately trusted as to the exact words said
by Jesus.
lojbab
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| User: "SueDoeCyAnts" |
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| Title: Re: Alabama Constitution illegal for acknowledging a Creator? |
04 Feb 2008 09:11:06 AM |
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on Thu 31 Jan 2008 04:49:51p
Jd <ZionsFire@att.net> posted
in news:hi15q35jm6pgb55384a6je2ra9ges9pc68@4ax.com:
FACE wrote:
On Fri, 25 Jan 2008 07:52:48 -0800 (PST), for Alabama
Constitution illegal for acknowledging a Creator?, in
alt.politics Wide Eyed in Wonder <kands00@hotmail.com>, wrote:
Is the Alabama Constitution illegal for the following
section...
SECTION 1 Equality and rights of men "That all men are equally
free and independent; that they are endowed by their Creator
with certain inalienable rights; that among these are life,
liberty and the pursuit of happiness."
In this section, the Alabama Constitution officially
recognized a creator, which is something many are objecting to
public school science texts for doing. If it is wrong for the
schools to do, it must be wrong for the state, too...right?
(note: the states of Indiana, Louisiana, North Carolina, the
US Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson, William H
Harrison, Dwight D Eisenhower, and others likewise officially
recognize a "creator" in official speeches, Constitutions, and
texts)
Kenneth Clifton christiansuperhero.com
At least one other state that you forgot is the California
constitution.
FACE
Every state in the USA acknowledges God in it's official
documents as have every President who has ever held office.
There is no God but the God of Israel, as even pagan rulers are
on record as acknowledging. I realize however, that in our
nation which is quickly becoming a lezbiNation of feminists and
wimps... that truths like the aforementioned are quite
discomforting.
A Constitution's preamble carries no force of law.
To make the assertion that a general nod to a Creative Force
is a proof of that America is a "Christian Nation" is
is utterly farsical for one primary reason:
There Is No Christian Gestalt - No Oneness of Christian Philosophy
It is irreconcilably schismatic;
It is Humptey Dumptey after his great fall.
American theory of a totally non-religious state was founded upon
a historical understanding of the bloodshed borne from Christian
States Warring against Dhristian States, each claiming it had a
divine right to murder the other.The american goverment was not
set-up with a religious association, because the Founders, in
majority men of stronng Christian Faith, also understood that a
state's possessing the power to coerce qwuestions of conscience
upon its citizenry was neither free, peaceful.
This was understood, not just from a knowledge of European History
either; there had been many examples of religious persecution in
the colonies also. Any Christian, whose sect believes that
baptism must be full immersion, and can only be properly performed
after the person has come to an age where they are capable of
freely consenting to it, are deceiving themselves if they desire
to return to America's religious foundations, because Anabaptists
were especially loathed in many of the colonies. This is why
Jefferson penned his famous Wall of Separation Between Church and
State letter to the Danbury Baptists just after his first
election. it was because they had supported his candidacy, and
had heard subsequent rumours that a state mandated religion was in
the offing. There was a time in the Massachusetts Bay Colony,
where hard-core Anabaptistds were simply burned at the stake for
professing heresy.
Care to return to that lovely bit of original intent?
You copy and paste of what largely amounted to Preambles of
indivivual state Constitutions is not an idication of a Christian
Gestalt which is the power behind the Nation. it is however, and
very strong indicator of you own slothful scholarship, as the vast
majority of US State Constitutions have even stronger church/state
separation clauses enshrined within them, where it counts as
forece of law.
I compiled a bit of a list for your edification.
after you've looked it over, you may desire to respond,
so I start keeping an eye out on April 5. OK?
I hope that doesn't rush you too much...
========================================
Alabama 1901, Preamble. We the people of the State of Alabama,
invoking the favor and guidance of Almighty God, do ordain and
establish the following Constitution ..
Article I, section 3. That no religion shall be established by
law; that no preference shall be given by law to any religious
sect, society, denomination, or mode of worship; that no one shall
be compelled by law to attend any place of worship; nor to pay any
tithes, taxes, or other rate for building or repairing any place
of worship, or for maintaining any minister or ministry; that no
religious test shall be required as a qualification to any office
or public trust under this state; and that the civil rights,
privileges, and capacities of any citizen shall not be in any
manner affected by his religious principles.
Article XIV, section 263. No money raised for the support of the
public schools shall be appropriated to or used for the support of
any sectarian or denominational school.
========================================
Alaska 1956, Preamble. We, the people of Alaska, grateful to God
and to those who founded our nation and pioneered this great
land..
Section 7.1 - Public Education. The legislature shall by general
law establish and maintain a system of public schools open to all
children of the State, and may provide for other public
educational institutions. Schools and institutions so established
shall be free from sectarian control. No money shall be paid from
public funds for the direct benefit of any religious or other
private educational institution.
Section 9.6 - Public Purpose. No tax shall be levied, or
appropriation of public money made, or public property
transferred, nor shall the public credit be used, except for a
public purpose.
========================================
Arizona 1911, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Arizona,
grateful to Almighty God for our liberties, do ordain this
Constitution...
Article II, section 7. The mode of administering an oath, or
affirmation, shall be such as shall be most consistent with and
binding upon the conscience of the person to whom such oath, or
affirmation, may be administered.
Article II, section 12. The liberty of conscience secured by the
provisions of this constitution shall not be so construed as to
excuse acts of licentiousness, or justify practices inconsistent
with the peace and safety of the state. No public money or
property shall be appropriated for or applied to any religious
worship, exercise, or instruction, or to the support of any
religious establishment. No religious qualification shall be
required for any public office or employment, nor shall any person
be incompetent as a witness or juror in consequence of his opinion
on matters of religion, nor be questioned touching his religious
belief in any court of justice to affect the weight of his
testimony.
Article II, section 7. No sectarian instruction shall be imparted
in any school or state educational institution that may be
established under this Constitution, and no religious or political
test or qualification shall ever be required as a condition of
admission into any public educational institution of the state, as
teacher, student, or pupil; but the liberty of conscience hereby
secured shall not be so construed as to justify practices or
conduct inconsistent with the good order, peace, morality, or
safety of the state, or with the rights of others.
========================================
Arkansas 1874, Preamble. We, the people of the State of
Arkansas, grateful to Almighty God for the privilege of choosing
our own form of government...
Article II, section 24. All men have a natural and indefeasible
right to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their
own consciences; no man can, of right, be compelled to attend,
erect or support any place of worship; or to maintain any ministry
against his consent. No human authority can, in any case or manner
whatsoever, control or interfere with the right of conscience; and
no preference shall ever be given, by law, to any religious
establishment, denomination or mode of worship above any other.
========================================
California 1879, Preamble. We, the People of the State of
California, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom.
Article I, section 4. Free exercise and enjoyment of religion
without discrimination or preference are guaranteed. This liberty
of conscience does not excuse acts that are licentious or
inconsistent with the peace or safety of the State. The
Legislature shall make no law respecting an establishment of
religion. A person is not incompetent to be a witness or juror
because of his or her opinions on religious beliefs.
Article IX, section 8. No public money shall ever be appropriated
for the support of any sectarian or denominational school, or any
school not under the exclusive control of the officers of the
public schools; nor shall any sectarian or denominational doctrine
be taught, or instruction thereon be permitted, directly or
indirectly, in any of the common schools of this State.
========================================
Colorado 1876, Preamble. We, the people of Colorado, with
profound reverence for the Supreme Ruler of Universe.
Article II, section 4. The free exercise and enjoyment of
religious profession and worship, without discrimination, shall
forever hereafter be guaranteed; and no person shall be denied any
civil or political right, privilege or capacity, on account of his
opinions concerning religion; but the liberty of conscience hereby
secured shall not be construed to dispense with oaths or
affirmations, excuse acts of licentiousness or justify practices
inconsistent with the good order, peace or safety of the state. No
person shall be required to attend or support any ministry or
place of worship, religious sect or denomination against his
consent. Nor shall any preference be given by law to any religious
denomination or mode of worship.
Article IX, section 7. Neither the general assembly, nor any
county, city, town, township, school district or other public
corporation, shall ever make any appropriation, or pay from any
public fund or moneys whatever, anything in aid of any church or
sectarian society, or for any sectarian purpose, or to help
support or sustain any school, academy, seminary, college,
university or other literary or scientific institution, controlled
by any church or sectarian denomination whatsoever; nor shall any
grant or donation of land, money or other personal property, ever
be made by the state, or any such public corporation to any
church, or for any sectarian purpose.
Article IX, section 8. No religious test or qualification shall
ever be required of any person as a condition of admission into
any public educational institution of the state, either as a
teacher or student; and no teacher or student of any such
institution shall ever be required to attend or participate in any
religious service whatsoever. No sectarian tenets or doctrines
shall ever be taught in the public school, nor shall any
distinction or classification of pupils be made on account of race
or color, nor shall any pupil be assigned or transported to any
public educational institution for the purpose of achieving racial
balance.
========================================
Connecticut 1818, Preamble. The People of Connecticut,
acknowledging with gratitude the good Providence of God in
permitting them to enjoy ...
Article VII. It being the right of all men to worship the Supreme
Being, the Great Creator and Preserver of the Universe, and to
render that worship in a mode consistent with the dictates of
their consciences, no person shall by law be compelled to join or
support, nor be classed or associated with, any congregation,
church or religious association. No preference shall be given by
law to any religious society or denomination in the state. Each
shall have and enjoy the same and equal powers, rights and
privileges, and may support and maintain the ministers or teachers
of its society or denomination, and may build and repair houses
for public worship.
========================================
Delaware 1897, Preamble. Through Divine Goodness all men have,
by nature, the rights of worshipping and serving their Creator
according to the dictates of their consciences.
Article X, section 3. No portion of any fund now existing, or
which may hereafter be appropriated, or raised by tax, for
educational purposes, shall be appropriated to, or used by, or in
aid of any sectarian, church or denominational school; provided,
that all real or personal property used for school purposes, where
the tuition is free, shall be exempt from taxation and assessment
for public purposes.
========================================
Florida 1845, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Florida,
grateful to Almighty God for our constitutional liberty ...
establish this Constitution...
Article I, section 3. There shall be no law respecting the
establishment of religion or prohibiting or penalizing the free
exercise thereof. Religious freedom shall not justify practices
inconsistent with public morals, peace or safety. No revenue of
the state or any political subdivision or agency thereof shall
ever be taken from the public treasury directly or indirectly in
aid of any church, sect, or religious denomination or in aid of
any sectarian institution.
Article IX, section 6. The income derived from the state school
fund shall, and the principal of the fund may, be appropriated,
but only to the support and maintenance of free public schools.
========================================
Georgia 1777, Preamble. We, the people of Georgia, relying upon
protection and guidance of Almighty God, do ordain and establish
this Constitution...
Article I, section 1, paragraph 3. Each person has the natural and
inalienable right to worship God, each according to the dictates
of that person's own conscience; and no human authority should, in
any case, control or interfere with such right of conscience.
Article I, section 1, paragraph 4. No inhabitant of this state
shall be molested in person or property or be prohibited from
holding any public office or trust on account of religious
opinions; but the right of freedom of religion shall not be so
construed as to excuse acts of licentiousness or justify practices
inconsistent with the peace and safety of the state.
Article I, section 2, paragraph 7. No money shall ever be taken
from the public treasury, directly or indirectly, in aid of any
church, sect, cult, or religious denomination or of any sectarian
institution.
========================================
THIS ONE IS AN OUTRIGHT FABRICATION
--- --- --
Hawaii 1959, Preamble. We, the people of Hawaii, Grateful for
Divine Guidance . establish this Constitution
--- --- --
Preamble. We, the people of Hawaii, grateful for Divine Guidance,
and mindful of our Hawaiian heritage and uniqueness as an island
State, dedicate our efforts to fulfill the philosophy decreed by
the Hawaii State motto, "Ua mau ke ea o ka aina i ka pono."
We reserve the right to control our destiny, to nurture the
integrity of our people and culture, and to preserve the quality
of life that we desire.
We reaffirm our belief in a government of the people, by the
people and for the people, and with an understanding and
compassionate heart toward all the peoples of the earth, do hereby
ordain and establish this constitution for the State of Hawaii.
--- --- --
Article I, section 4. No law shall be enacted 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.
Article XII, section 7. The State reaffirms and shall protect all
rights, customarily and traditionally exercised for subsistence,
cultural and religious purposes and possessed by ahupua'a tenants
who are descendants of native Hawaiians who inhabited the Hawaiian
Islands prior to 1778, subject to the right of the State to
regulate such rights.
Article X, section 1. The State shall provide for the
establishment, support and control of a statewide system of public
schools free from sectarian control, a state university, public
libraries and such other educational institutions as may be deemed
desirable, including physical facilities therefor. There shall be
no discrimination in public educational institutions because of
race, religion, sex or ancestry; nor shall public funds be
appropriated for the support or benefit of any sectarian or
private educational institution.
========================================
Idaho 1889, Preamble. We, the people of the State of Idaho,
grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, to secure its
blessings...
Article I, section 4. The exercise and enjoyment of religious
faith and worship shall forever be guaranteed; and no person shall
be denied any civil or political right, privilege, or capacity on
account of his religious opinions; but the liberty of conscience
hereby secured shall not be construed to dispense with oaths or
affirmations, or excuse acts of licentiousness or justify
polygamous or other pernicious practices, inconsistent with
morality or the peace or safety of the state; nor to permit any
person, organization, or association to directly or indirectly aid
or abet, counsel or advise any person to commit the crime of
bigamy or polygamy, or any other crime. No person shall be
required to attend or support any ministry or place of worship,
religious sect or denomination, or pay tithes against his consent;
nor shall any preference be given by law to any religious
denomination or mode of worship. Bigamy and polygamy are forever
prohibited in the state, and the legislature shall provide by law
for the punishment of such crimes.
Article IX, section 5. Neither the legislature nor any county,
city, town, township, school district, or other public
corporation, shall ever make any appropriation, or pay from any
public fund or moneys whatever, anything in aid of any church or
sectarian or religious society, or for any sectarian or religious
purpose, or to help support or sustain any school, academy,
seminary, college, university or other literary or scientific
institution, controlled by any church, sectarian or religious
denomination whatsoever; nor shall any grant or donation of land,
money or other personal property ever be made by the state, or any
such public corporation, to any church or for any sectarian or
religious purpose; provided, however, that a health facilities
authority, as specifically authorized and empowered by law, may
finance or refinance any private, not for profit, health
facilities owned or operated by any church or sectarian religious
society, through loans, leases, or other transactions.
Article IX, section 6. No religious test or qualification shall
ever be required of any person as a condition of admission into
any public educational institution of the state, either as teacher
or student; and no teacher or student of any such institution
shall ever be required to attend or participate in any religious
service whatever. No sectarian or religious tenets or doctrines
shall ever be taught in the public schools, nor shall any
distinction or classification of pupils be made on account of race
or color. No books, papers, tracts or documents of a political,
sectarian or denominational character shall be used or introduced
in any schools established under the provisions of this article,
nor shall any teacher or any district receive any of the public
school moneys in which the schools have not been taught in
accordance with the provisions of this article.
========================================
Illinois 1870, Preamble. We, the people of the State of
Illinois, grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and
religious liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy
and looking to Him for a blessing on our endeavors.
Article I, section 3. The free exercise and enjoyment of religious
profession and worship, without discrimination, shall forever be
guaranteed, and no person shall be denied any civil or political
right, privilege or capacity, on account of his religious
opinions; but the liberty of conscience hereby secured shall not
be construed to dispense with oaths or affirmations, excuse acts
of licentiousness, or justify practices inconsistent with the
peace or safety of the State. No person shall be required to
attend or support any ministry or place of worship against his
consent, nor shall any preference be given by law to any religious
denomination or mode of worship.
Article X, section 3. Neither the General Assembly nor any county,
city, town, township, school district, or other public
corporation, shall ever make any appropriation or pay from any
public fund whatever, anything in aid of any church or sectarian
purpose, or to help support or sustain any school, academy,
seminary, college, university, or other literary or scientific
institution, controlled by any church or sectarian denomination
whatever; nor shall any grant or donation of land, money, or other
personal property ever be made by the State, or any such public
corporation, to any church, or for any sectarian purpose.
========================================
Indiana 1851, Preamble. We, the People of the State of Indiana,
grateful to Almighty God for the free exercise of the right to
chose our form of government..
Article I, section 3. No law shall, in any case whatever, control
the free exercise and enjoyment of religious opinions, or
interfere with the rights of conscience.
Article VIII, section 3. The principal of the Common School fund
shall remain a perpetual fund, which may be increased, but shall
never be diminished; and the income thereof shall be inviolably
appropriated to the support of Common Schools, and to no other
purpose whatever.
========================================
Iowa 1857, Preamble. We, the People of the State of Iowa,
grateful to the Supreme Being for the blessings hitherto
enjoyed, and feeling our dependence on Him for a continuation of
these blessings...establish this Constitution
Article I, section 4. o religious test shall be required as a
qualification for any office, or public trust, and no person shall
be deprived of any of his rights, privileges, or capacities, or
disqualified from the performance of any of his public or private
duties, or rendered incompetent to give evidence in any court of
law or equity, in consequence of his opinions on the subject of
religion; and any party to any judicial proceeding shall have the
right to use as a witness, or take the testimony of, any other
person not disqualified on account of interest, who may be
cognizant of any fact material to the case; and parties to suits
may be witnesses, as provided by law.
========================================
Kansas 1859, Preamble. We, the people of Kansas, grateful to
Almighty God for our civil and religious privileges . establish
this Constitution.
Article I, section 7. The right to worship God according to the
dictates of conscience shall never be infringed; nor shall any
person be compelled to attend or support any form of worship; nor
shall any control of or interference with the rights of conscience
be permitted, nor any preference be given by law to any religious
establishment or mode of worship. No religious test or property
qualification shall be required for any office of public trust,
nor for any vote at any elections, nor shall any person be
incompetent to testify on account of religious belief.
Article VI, section 6.(c) No religious sect or sects shall control
any part of the public educational funds.
========================================
Kentucky 1891, Preamble. We, the people of the Commonwealth of
grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and religious
liberties...
Bill of Rights, section 1. All men are, by nature, free and equal,
and have certain inherent and inalienable rights, among which may
be reckoned: Second: The right of worshiping Almighty God
according to the dictates of their consciences.
Bill of Rights, section 5. No preference shall ever be given by
law to any religious sect, society or denomination; nor to any
particular creed, mode of worship or system of ecclesiastical
polity; nor shall any person be compelled to attend any place of
worship, to contribute to the erection or maintenance of any such
place, or to the salary or support of any minister of religion;
nor shall any man be compelled to send his child to any school to
which he may be conscientiously opposed; and the civil rights,
privileges or capacities of no person shall be taken away, or in
any way diminished or enlarged, on account of his belief or
disbelief of any religious tenet, dogma or teaching. No human
authority shall, in any case whatever, control or interfere with
the rights of conscience.
Education, section 189. No portion of any fund or tax now
existing, or that may hereafter be raised or levied for
educational purposes, shall be appropriated to, or used by, or in
aid of, any church, sectarian or denominational school.
========================================
Louisiana 1921, Preamble. We, the people of the State of
Louisiana, grateful to Almighty God for the civil, political and
religious liberties we enjoy ..
Article I, section 3. No person shall be denied the equal
protection of the laws. No law shall discriminate against a person
because of race or religious ideas, beliefs, or affiliations. No
law shall arbitrarily, capriciously, or unreasonably discriminate
against a person because of birth, age, sex, culture, physical
condition, or political ideas or affiliations. Slavery and
involuntary servitude are prohibited, except in the latter case as
punishment for crime.
========================================
Maine 1820, Preamble. We the People of Maine .. acknowledging
with grateful hearts the goodness of the Sovereign Ruler of the
Universe in affording us an opportunity ... and imploring His
aid and direction
Article I, section 3. All individuals have a natural and
unalienable right to worship Almighty God according to the
dictates of their own consciences, and no person shall be hurt,
molested or restrained in that person's liberty or estate for
worshiping God in the manner and season most agreeable to the
dictates of that person's own conscience, nor for that person's
religious professions or sentiments, provided that that person
does not disturb the public peace, nor obstruct others in their
religious worship; -- and all persons demeaning themselves
peaceably, as good members of the State, shall be equally under
the protection of the laws, and no subordination nor preference of
any one sect or denomination to another shall ever be established
by law, nor shall any religious test be required as a
qualification for any office or trust, under this State; and all
religious societies in this State, whether incorporate or
unincorporate, shall at all times have the exclusive right of
electing their public teachers, and contracting with them for
their support and maintenance.
========================================
Maryland 1776, Preamble. We, the people of the state of
Maryland, grateful to Almighty God or our civil and religious
liberty...
They have a fucked-up constitution, which claims a right to deny
liberty to anyone who refuses to publcy express a belief in the
existence of God
========================================
Massachusetts 1780, Preamble. We...the people of Massachusetts,
acknowledging with grateful hearts, the goodness of the Great
Legislator of the Universe...in the course of His Providence, an
opportunity and devoutly imploring His direction ...
Article II. It is the right as well as the duty of all men in
society, publicly, and at stated seasons to worship the Supreme
Being, the great Creator and Preserver of the universe. And no
subject shall be hurt, molested, or restrained, in his person,
liberty, or estate, for worshiping God in the manner and season
most agreeable to the dictates of his own conscience; or for his
religious profession or sentiments; provided he doth not disturb
the public peace, or obstruct others in their religious worship.
========================================
Michigan 1908, Preamble. We, the people of the State of
Michigan, grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of freedom
... establish this Constitution
Article I, section 2. No person shall be denied the equal
protection of the laws; nor shall any person be denied the
enjoyment of his civil or political rights or be discriminated
against in the exercise thereof because of religion, race, color
or national origin. The legislature shall implement this section
by appropriate legislation.
Article I, section 4. Every person shall be at liberty to worship
God according to the dictates of his own conscience. No person
shall be compelled to attend, or, against his consent, to
contribute to the erection or support of any place of religious
worship, or to pay tithes, taxes or other rates for the support of
any minister of the gospel or teacher of religion. No money shall
be appropriated or drawn from the treasury for the benefit of any
religious sect or society, theological or religious seminary; nor
shall property belonging to the state be appropriated for any such
purpose. The civil and political rights, privileges and capacities
of no person shall be diminished or enlarged on account of his
religious belief.
Article I, section 18. No person shall be rendered incompetent to
be a witness on account of his opinions on matters of religious
belief.
Article VII, section 2. The legislature shall maintain and support
a system of free public elementary and secondary schools as
defined by law. Every school district shall provide for the
education of its pupils without discrimination as to religion,
creed, race, color or national origin.
No public monies or property shall be appropriated or paid or any
public credit utilized, by the legislature or any other political
subdivision or agency of the state directly or indirectly to aid
or maintain any private, denominational or other nonpublic,
pre-elementary, elementary, or secondary school. No payment,
credit, tax benefit, exemption or deductions, tuition voucher,
subsidy, grant or loan of public monies or property shall be
provided, directly or indirectly, to support the attendance of any
student or the employment of any person at any such nonpublic
school or at any location or institution where instruction is
offered in whole or in part to such nonpublic school students. The
legislature may provide for the transportation of students to and
from any school.
========================================
Minnesota, 1857, Preamble. We, the people of the State of
Minnesota, grateful to God for our civil and religious liberty,
and desiring to perpetuate its blessings
Article I, section 16. The enumeration of rights in this
constitution shall not deny or impair others retained by and
inherent in the people. The right of every man to worship God
according to the dictates of his own conscience shall never be
infringed; nor shall any man be compelled to attend, erect or
support any place of worship, or to maintain any religious or
ecclesiastical ministry, against his consent; nor shall any
control of or interference with the rights of conscience be
permitted, or any preference be given by law to any religious
establishment or mode of worship; but the liberty of conscience
hereby secured shall not be so construed as to excuse acts of
licentiousness or justify practices inconsistent with the peace or
safety of the state, nor shall any money be drawn from the
treasury for the benefit of any religious societies or religious
or theological seminaries.
Article XIII, section 2. In no case shall any public money or
property be appropriated or used for the support of schools
wherein the distinctive doctrines, creeds or tenets of any
particular Christian or other religious sect are promulgated or
taught.
========================================
Mississippi 1890, Preamble. We, the people of Mississippi in
convention assembled, grateful to Almighty God, and invoking His
blessing on our work.
Article VIII, section 208. No religious or other sect or sects
shall ever control any part of the school or other educational
funds of this state; nor shall any funds be appropriated toward
the support of any sectarian school, or to any school that at the
time of receiving such appropriation is not conducted as a free
school.
========================================
Missouri 1845, Preamble. We, the people of Missouri, with
profound reverence for the Supreme Ruler of the Universe, and
grateful for His goodness ...establish this Constitution ..
Article I, Sec. 5. That all men have a natural and indefeasible
right to wor- ship Almighty God according to the dictates of their
own consciences; that no human authority can control or inter-
fere with the rights of conscience; that no person shall, on
account of his religious persuasion or belief, be rendered
ineligible to any public office of trust or profit in this state,
be disqualified from testifying or serving as a juror, or be
molested in his person or estate; but this section shall not be
construed to excuse acts of licentious- ness, nor to justify
practices inconsistent with the good order, peace or safety of the
state, or with the rights of others.
Article I, Sec. 6. That no person can be compelled to erect,
support or attend any place or system of worship, or to maintain
or support any priest, minister, preacher or teacher of any sect,
church, creed or denomination of religion; but if any person shall
voluntarily make a contract for any such object, he shall be held
to the performance of the same.
Article I, Sec. 7. That no money shall ever be taken from the
public treasury, directly or indirectly, in aid of any church,
sect, or de- nomination of religion, or in aid of any priest,
preacher, minister or teacher thereof, as such; and that no
preference shall be given to nor any discrimination made against
any church, sect or creed of religion, or any form of religious
faith or worship.
========================================
Why did he use the 1889 Constitution in a brief filed in 2004,
when Montana's present legitimate Constitution was written in 197?
---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
Montana 1889, Preamble. We, the people of Montana, grateful to
Almighty God for the blessings of liberty establish this
Constitution ..
---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
Montana 1972, Preamble We the people of Montana grateful to God
for the quiet beauty of our state, the grandeur of our mountains,
the vastness of our rolling plains, and desiring to improve the
quality of life, equality of opportunity and to secure the
blessings of liberty for this and future generations do ordain and
establish this constitution.
Article II, Sec. 4. The dignity of the human being is inviolable.
No person shall be denied the equal protection of the laws.
Neither the state nor any person, firm, corporation, or
institution shall discriminate against any person in the exercise
of his civil or political rights on account of race, color, sex,
culture, social origin or condition, or political or relig- ious
ideas.
========================================
Nebraska 1875, Preamble. We, the people, grateful to Almighty
God for our freedom .. establish this Constitution
--- --- ---- ------ ------------ ------------
A 1986 Nebraska State Supremem Court decision offers illumination
on the appicability of its Constitution's preamble:
The Preamble of the Constitution is not a part of the
Constitution, but only a general statement of purpose. The State
of Nebraska does not derive any of its substantive powers from the
Preamble to the Nebraska Constitution. The Preamble cannot exert
any power to secure the declared objects of the Constitution
unless, apart from the Preamble, such power can be found in, or
can be properly implied from, some express delegation in the
Constitution. Omaha Nat. Bank v. Spire, 223 Neb. 209, 389 N.W.2d
269 (1986).
--- --- ---- ------ ------------ ------------
Article I-4 All persons have a natural and indefeasible right to
worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their own
consciences. No person shall be compelled to attend, erect or
support any place of worship against his consent, and no
preference shall be given by law to any religious society, nor
shall any interference with the rights of conscience be permitted.
No religious test shall be required as a qualification for office,
nor shall any person be incompetent to be a witness on account of
his religious beliefs; but nothing herein shall be construed to
dispense with oaths and affirmations. Religion, morality, and
knowledge, however, being essential to good government, it shall
be the duty of the Legislature to pass suitable laws to protect
every religious denomination in the peaceable enjoyment of its own
mode of public worship, and to encourage schools and the means of
instruction.
Article VII-11, paragraphs 2-4 All public schools shall be free of
sectarian instruction.
The state shall not accept money or property to be used for
sectarian purposes; PROVIDED, that the Legislature may provide
that the state may receive money from the federal government and
distribute it in accordance with the terms of any such federal
grants, but no public funds of the state, any political
subdivision, or any public corporation may be added thereto.
A religious test or qualification shall not be required of any
teacher or student for admission or continuance in any school or
institution supported in whole or in part by public funds or
taxation.
========================================
Nevada 1864, Preamble. We the people of the State of Nevada,
grateful to Almighty God for our freedom . establish this
Constitution ..
Article I, section 4. The free exercise and enjoyment of religious
profession and worship without discrimination or preference shall
forever be allowed in this State, and no person shall be rendered
incompetent to be a witness on account of his opinions on matters
of his religious belief, but the liberty of [conscience] hereby
secured, shall not be so construed, as to excuse acts of
licentiousness or justify practices inconsistent with the peace,
or safety of this State.
Article XI, section 9. No sectarian instruction shall be imparted
or tolerated in any school or University that may be established
under this Constitution.
Article XI, section 10. No public funds of any kind or character
whatever, State, County or Municipal, shall be used for sectarian
purpose.
========================================
WHAT GOD IS REFERENCED IN THIS?
-------------------------------
New Hampshire 1792, Part I. Art. I. Sec. V. Every individual has a
natural and unalienable right to worship God according to the
dictates of his own conscience .
========================================
New Jersey 1844, Preamble. We, the people of the State of New
Jersey, grateful to Almighty God for civil and religious liberty
which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy, and looking to Him
for a blessing on our endeavors.
Article I. No person shall be deprived of the inestimable
privilege of worshiping Almighty God in a manner agreeable to the
dictates of his own conscience; nor under any pretense whatever be
compelled to attend any place of worship contrary to his faith and
judgment; nor shall any person be obliged to pay tithes, taxes, or
other rates for building or repairing any church or churches,
place or places of worship, or for the maintenance of any minister
or ministry, contrary to what he believes to be right or has
deliberately and voluntarily engaged to perform.
========================================
New Mexico 1911, Preamble. We, the People of New Mexico,
grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of liberty ..
Article II; Sec. 11. Every man shall be free to worship God
according to the dic- tates of his own conscience, and no person
shall ever be molested or denied any civil or political right or
privi- lege on account of his religious opinion or mode of religi-
ous worship. No person shall be required to attend any place of
worship or support any religious sect or denomination; nor shall
any preference be given by law to any religious denomination or
mode of worship.
========================================
New York 1846, Preamble. We, the people of the State of New
York, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, in order to
secure its blessings .
Article I, section 3. The free exercise and enjoyment of religious
profession and worship, without discrimination or preference,
shall forever be allowed in this state to all humankind; and no
person shall be rendered incompetent to be a witness on account of
his or her opinions on matters of religious belief; but the
liberty of conscience hereby secured shall not be so construed as
to excuse acts of licentiousness, or justify practices
inconsistent with the peace or safety of this state.
Article XI, section 3. Neither the state nor any subdivision
thereof, shall use its property or credit or any public money, or
authorize or permit either to be used, directly or indirectly,
other than for examination or inspection, of any school or
institution of learning wholly or in part under the control or
direction of any religious denomination, or in which any
denominational tenet or doctrine is taught, but the legislature
may provide for the transportation of children to and from any
school or institution of learning.
========================================
North Carolina 1868, Preamble. We the people of the State of
North Carolina, grateful to Almighty God, the Sovereign Ruler of
Nations, for our civil, political, and religious liberties, and
acknowledging our dependence upon Him for the continuance of
those
Article I, section 13. All persons have a natural and inalienable
right to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their
own consciences, and no human authority shall, in any case
whatever, control or interfere with the rights of conscience.
========================================
North Dakota 1889, Preamble. We, the people of North Dakota,
grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of civil and
religious liberty, do ordain...
Article I, section 3. The free exercise and enjoyment of religious
profession and worship, without discrimination or preference shall
be forever guaranteed in this state, and no person shall be
rendered incompetent to be a witness or juror on account of his
opinion on matters of religious belief; but the liberty of
conscience hereby secured shall not be so construed as to excuse
acts of licentiousness, or justify practices inconsistent with the
peace or safety of this state.
Article VIII, section 5. All colleges, universities, and other
educational institutions, for the support of which lands have been
granted to this state, or which are supported by a public tax,
shall remain under the absolute and exclusive control of the
state. No money raised for the support of the public schools of
the state shall be appropriated to or used for the support of any
sectarian school.
========================================
Ohio 1852, Preamble. We the people of the state of Ohio,
grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, to secure its
blessings and to promote our common..
Article I, section 7. All men have a natural and indefeasible
right to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their
own conscience. No person shall be compelled to attend, erect, or
support any place of worship, or maintain any form of worship,
against his consent; and no preference shall be given, by law, to
any religious society; nor shall any interference with the rights
of conscience be permitted. No religious test shall be required,
as a qualification for office, nor shall any person be incompetent
to be a witness on account of his religious belief; but nothing
herein shall be construed to dispense with oaths and affirmations.
Religion, morality, and knowledge, however, being essential to
good government, it shall be the duty of the General Assembly to
pass suitable laws, to protect every religious denomination in the
peaceable enjoyment of its own mode of public worship, and to
encourage schools and the means of instruction.
========================================
Oklahoma 1907, Preamble. Invoking the guidance of Almighty God,
in order to secure and perpetuate the blessings of liberty ...
establish this
Article I, section 2. Perfect toleration of religious sentiment
shall be secured, and no inhabitant of the State shall ever be
molested in person or property on account of his or her mode of
religious worship; and no religious test shall be required for the
exercise of civil or political rights. Polygamous or plural
marriages are forever prohibited.
Article II, section 5.No public money or property shall ever be
appropriated, applied, donated, or used, directly or indirectly,
for the use, benefit, or support of any sect, church,
denomination, or system of religion, or for the use, benefit, or
support of any priest, preacher, minister, or other religious
teacher or dignitary, or sectarian institution as such.
========================================
WHOOPS--ANTIQQUATED AND NO LONGER GERMAANBE
---- ---- ---- ---- ----
Oregon 1857, Bill of Rights, Article I. Section 2. All men shall
be secure in the Natural right, toworship Almighty God according
to the dictates of their consciences .
---- ---- ---- ---- ----
Oregon 2005, Preamble We the people of the State of Oregon to the
end that Justice be established, order maintained, and liberty
perpetuated, do ordain this Constitution.
Article 1; Section 2. Freedom of worship. All men shall be secure
in the Natural right, to worship Almighty God according to the
dictates of their own consciences.
Article 1; Section 3. Freedom of religious opinion. No law shall
in any case whatever control the free exercise, and enjoyment of
religeous [sic] opinions, or interfere with the rights of
conscience.
Article 1; Section 5. No money to be appropriated for religion. No
money shall be drawn from the Treasury for the benefit of any
religeous [sic], or theological institution, nor shall any money
be appropriated for the payment of any religeous [sic] services in
either house of the Legislative Assembly.
========================================
Pennsylvania 1776, Preamble. We, the people of Pennsylvania,
grateful to Almighty God for the blessings of civil and
religious liberty, and humbly invoking His guidance
Article I, section 3. All men have a natural and indefeasible
right to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their
own consciences; no man can of right be compelled to attend, erect
or support any place of worship or to maintain any ministry
against his consent; no human authority can, in any case whatever,
control or interfere with the rights of conscience, and no
preference shall ever be given by law to any religious
establishments or modes of worship.
Article III, section 15. No money raised for the support of the
public schools of the Commonwealth shall be appropriated to or
used for the support of any sectarian school.
========================================
Rhode Island 1842, Preamble. We the People of the State of Rhode
Island grateful to Almighty God for the civil and religious
liberty which He hath so long permitted us to enjoy, and looking
to Him for a blessing
Article I, section 3. Whereas Almighty God hath created the mind
free; and all attempts to influence it by temporal punishments or
burdens, or by civil incapacitations, tend to beget habits of
hypocrisy and meanness; and whereas a principal object of our
venerable ancestors, in their migration to this country and their
settlement of this state, was, as they expressed it, to hold forth
a lively experiment that a flourishing civil state may stand and
be best maintained with full liberty in religious concernments;
we, therefore, declare that no person shall be compelled to
frequent or to support any religious worship, place, or ministry
whatever, except in fulfillment of such person's voluntary
contract; nor enforced, restrained, molested, or burdened in body
or goods; nor disqualified from holding any office; nor otherwise
suffer on account of such person's religious belief; and that
every person shall be free to worship God according to the
dictates of such person's conscience, and to profess and by
argument to maintain such person's opinion in matters of religion;
and that the same shall in no wise diminish, enlarge, or affect
the civil capacity of any person.
--------- ----------------------
Roger Williams, the found of the Rhode Island Colony needs special
noteworthyness when discussing religious freedom in america,
because he was persecuted on Mass. for being a devout Anabaptist,
and was forced into exile. His view on religious liberty were
absolute, and included Muslims, Hindus and atheists.
Roger Williams, The Bloody Tenent,
Of Persecution for Cause of Conscience - 1644
<http://tinyurl.com/287ubf>
Roger Williams to the Town of Providence January 1655
<http://tinyurl.com/2hgcga>
========================================
South Carolina, 1778, Preamble. We, the people of the State of
South Carolina grateful to God for our liberties, do ordain and
establish this Constitution
Article XI, section 4. No money shall be paid from public funds
nor shall the credit of the State or any of its political
subdivisions be used for the direct benefit of any religious or
other private educational institution.
========================================
South Dakota 1889, Preamble. We, the people of South Dakota,
grateful to Almighty God for our civil and religious liberties .
establish this
Article VI, section 3. The right to worship God according to the
dictates of conscience shall never be infringed. No person shall
be denied any civil or political right, privilege, or position on
account of his religious opinions; but the liberty of conscience
hereby secured shall not be so construed as to excuse
licentiousness, the invasion of the rights of others, or justify
practices inconsistent with the peace or safety of the state. No
person shall be compelled to attend or support any ministry or
place of worship against his consent nor shall any preference be
given by law to any religious establishment or mode of worship. No
money or property of the state shall be given or appropriated for
the benefit of any sectarian or religious society or institution.
Article VIII, section 16. No appropriation of lands, money, or
other property or credits to aid any sectarian school shall ever
be made by the state, or any county or municipality within the
state, nor shall the state or any county or municipality within
the | | | |
