January 16

National Religious Freedom Day

Today celebrates the adoption of Thomas Jefferson's Virginia Statuate for Religious Freedom. It was written in 1779 and adopted as law in 1786 in Virginia. It is this law that gives Americans the right to freedom of religion as well as the separation of church and state within the country.

Section 2 reads, "Be it enacted by the General Assembly, That no man shall be compelled to frequent or support any religious worship, place, or ministry whatsoever, nor shall be enforced, restrained, molested, or burdened in his body or goods, nor shall otherwise suffer on account of his religious opinions or belief; but that all men shall be free to profess, and by argument to maintain, their opinion in matters of religion, and that the same shall in no wise diminish enlarge, or affect their civil capacities."

In short, Jefferson states that Americans are free to worship in their own choosing and should not be judged based upon their way of worship. Although this statuate deals primarily with those being appointed to government positions, it is also used to promote the freedoms of the common man.

A Way to Celebrate

It is wonderful that we are given the gift of freedom in this country. As Americans, we have the freedoms of speech and choice of religion, in addition to many others. It is also good to have the responsibilities to govern those freedoms and act in a responsible manner.

To celebrate your relgious freedom today - practice your religion. A simple prayer or a full coven-gathering Circle could be done to honor your respective Path. Whichever way you choose, give thanks that you are able to honor your God(s) and/or Goddess(es) in that way.

A Simple Freedom of Religion Prayer

Oh God and Goddess, hear me from my humble heart.
I pray to thank you for allowing me to live in a place where I am able to honor You openly.
Thank you for giving me the choice to tell others about my Path, or to remain reserved.
Please help those who are unable to experience this joy, be they in another less free country or simply in a state of fear.
Help us to accept others for their choices and not judge them or impose our beliefs on unwilling ears. Help them to find the Truth within themselves, and hear her voice sweetly calling them to their Way. I ask that you give us courage to be true to ourselves and for us to always listen for that truth.
In the name of the Earth I ask these things.
Amen