Freedom of Religion
The First Ammendment of the US Constitution states, "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof." The founders of the USA envisioned a country where people could be free to worship God, without government interference. Many of the founders fled Europe where a state-church existed and persecuted individuals who held differing beliefs.

Separation of Church and State
The concept of "separation of church and state" is an application of the First Ammendment, but is often misunderstood today. In 1802, Thomas Jefferson (the primary author of the Declaration of Independence and the third president of the USA) wrote to a group of Christian churches to assure them that the US government would not establish a state church as was common in Europe. In this letter to church leaders, he assured them that there is "a wall of separation between church and state." This wall of separation was intended to protect the church from the influence of government, not to keep religious beliefs out of government as is popularly believed today.

Religious Roots of America
A majority of the founders of the USA were Christians fleeing perseuction in Europe. Their faith in God was instrumental in shaping America, and its influence is still felt across the land today. The very law structure of the USA is built upon the moral code of the Bible. Today in the Supreme Court of the United States, you will find carvings of the Ten Commandments from the Bible, as well as a stone carving depicting the account in the Bible of Moses giving the law of God. Even American currency carries the statement "In God We Trust" on each dollar bill and coin. The US Congress still opens each session with prayer.

Freedom and Diversity of Beliefs
These founders of the USA also believed in freedom, and did not believe anyone should be coerced to follow a particular faith. Therefore, they established a freedom for people to believe and worship as they desired. Today in America you find people from many religious beliefs, all free to assemble and worship without fear of government persecution. Within a given town you will find a large number of Christian churches due to the Christian roots of America. However, you will also find Islamic Mosques, Buddhist Temples, and Jewish Temples. Members of religious faiths are allowed to freely share their beliefs with others, so do not be surprised to find people in coffe shops talking about their beliefs in God or to have someone come to your door to invite you to their group or to leave you a booklet about what they believe. You will need to use discernment in these situations. Because of the guarantee of freedom, cults and individuals with malicious intent use this freedom of access to try and persuade you to follow them.