The War On Faith - FF - James Madison

"Every new and successful example therefore of a perfect separation between ecclesiastical
and civil matters, is of importance"
..........James Madison, 1822, Writings, 9:101

"Strongly guarded as is the separation between Religion and Government in the
Constitution of the United States, the danger of encroachment by Ecclesiastical Bodies, may
be illustrated by precedents already furnished in their short history"
..........James Madison, undated, William and Mary Quarterly, 1946, 3:555

"Religion and government will both exist in greater purity, the less they are mixed
together."

"What influence, in fact, have ecclesiastical establishments had on society? In some
instances they have been seen to erect a spiritual tyranny on the ruins of the civil
authority; on many instances they have been seen upholding the thrones of political
tyranny; in no instance have they been the guardians of the liberties of the people. Rulers
who wish to subvert the public liberty may have found an established clergy convenient
auxiliaries. A just government, instituted to secure and perpetuate it, needs them not."
.........."A Memorial and Remonstrance", 1785

"Experience witnesseth that ecclesiastical establishments, instead of maintaining the purity
and efficacy of religion, have had a contrary operation. During almost fifteen centuries has
the legal establishment of Christianity been on trial. What has been its fruits? More or less,
in all places, pride and indolence in the clergy; ignorance and servility in the laity; in both,
superstition, bigotry and persecution."
..........."A Memorial and Remonstrance", 1785

"The appropriation of funds of the United States for the use and support of religious
societies, [is] contrary to the article of the Constitution which declares that 'Congress shall
make no law respecting a religious establishment'"
..........James Madison, 1811, Writings, 8:133