Another debate entirely. The phrase "separation of church and state" was not in this document, but some, without ever reading it, have assumed it to be so. In a response to a letter from the Danbury Church Jefferson used this phrase, later questioning himself and in his personal journals writing that the first amendment was never intended to keep God out of the government, but to keep the gov't out of God. Prayer in school should have never have been banned. How does allowing the freedom of religion in school put any student at a disadvantage? You pray to your creator, whomever you believe them to be. If you choose to not believe, then please just be courteous to those that do. They will afford you the same respect in return. The Commandments removed from court houses was uncalled for. However, when the courts make their decisions, it is normally based on their interpretation of the exact words, "congress shall make no law establishing . . .", hence the law suits. In the end, if you've ever read the personal writings of Franklin or Jefferson, you will find that our founders wishes were that we practice whatever religion we choose, without worry of retribution from our gov't., ie: the King that they had just recently proclaimed their freedom.

That said; in the spirit of what I mentioned earlier in reference to your right to ignore. If you are offended when you see the Commandments in a public place, avert your eyes. It's a much easier road then getting the lawyers involved. If the Jehovah's Witness comes a knockin', say "no thanks", and close your front door. If you hear me say "so help me God" while taking an oath, or "under God" while reciting the pledge. Ignore me please. It's not really worth the busted nose for trying to stifle me. Using common sense is really the best option.

Whatever your beliefs, I will always respect them and how you communicate them is your choice, as is mine. All I ask is that you grant me the same courtesy as I would you.

On that note; we got way off the original post again, didn't we? Grrr! Sorry folks. Also please ignore my uneducated writing. Spelling should be o.k. but my grammar is probably substandard.

Prayer in public schools and the Ten Commandments on the courthouse wall are government-sponsored, and therein lies the objection. Government should be neutral. Some court decisions have ruled that schools can't even be used for religious events during non-school hours, and that's perhaps beyond the intent, provided those who use it pay for the use of the facilities and the janitorial and security staffs.

Pray all you want during exams, just keep it between you and God.

When the Jehovah's Witnesses show up, I call my wife and tell her, "It's for you."