God in America

Tomorrow we celebrate Independence Day for the United States of America, and it is well that we recognize and pay tribute to the roots of our independence.  The United States of America was built first and foremost upon the principle of the freedom of religion, a blessing enshrined in the First Amendment of The Constitution: "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."

As we celebrate faith, family, and freedom with barbecues, festivities and fireworks, may we remember the roots of our liberty, and the source of all blessings, namely Almighty God.  In anticipation of this great celebration, a couple of educational resources may be of interest to those who would like to learn more about the foundations of freedom:

• The PBS special God in America traces the history of the intersection between religion and politics in the United States.

• The Miller Center at the University of Virginia has organized a Presidential Speech Archive that contains some of the most important Presidential Speeches in American history, complete with transcripts.  Some of the speeches are available in their entirety in audio and video.  

Enjoy!  Happy Fourth of July!