Letter to the editor: Civility in Church-state Debate

Posted

Since my last article, discussing the origin and context of 'Separation of Church and State,' I've had people call me a 'Christian Nationalist' who wants to 'force Christianity on American citizens.' I've also received rather unpleasant comments calling me 'delusional' and that I 'need professional help,' but I can assure you that no matter what people say, I will never demonize anyone I disagree with. Ever.

Can't we just leave it at 'agree to disagree?' rather than 'you need mental help?'

I'm not trying to play the victim, but rather, I'm trying to appeal to these people. It was not my intention to impose 'Christian Nationalism' but rather to show that Christianity has its role in American government, for this country was built on Judeo-Christian values and our Constitution on Biblical principles.

Let us not forget the words of Patrick Henry, "this great nation was founded - not by religionists - but by Christians... on the Gospel of Jesus Christ!"

And let us not grieve this nation's father George Washington who said, "Do not let anyone claim to be a true American who attempts to remove religion from politics."

I would encourage those who have read my article to research the sources I gave - the Constitution, the Congressional Records on the First Amendment, the Danbury Baptist-Jefferson letters, etc.

Study them for yourself and make your own conclusion; that's my sincere encouragement to you.

God bless you all!

Gabriel Silliman

La Center

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