We don’t impose religion on Americans

Bob Vander Plaats needs to put aside his Bible and reach for his copy of the U.S. Constitution. He needs to read Article VI, which concludes

“ ... no religious test shall ever be required as a qualification to any office or public trust under the United States.”

Then he needs to read Article I of the Bill of Rights, which begins, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise there of ...”

The Founding Fathers were well aware of religion persecution. They knew the Pilgrims, the Puritans and others came to America to escape persecution by the Church of England, the official church of England. The Founding Fathers made it clear there would be no religious persecution in their America. Everyone would be free to practice their religion, but no one could impose their religion on anyone else.

Wait a minute. Maybe I'm wrong. Maybe Vander Plaats should keep his Bible front and center. He could read about the miracles Jesus performed for the outcasts of society.

Jesus taught us that all human beings were valued by Him and deserving of His love.

Vander Plaats has turned religious persecution upside down. If persecuting gays and Iowa Supreme Court justices is where the religious right wants to take us, God help us all if the religious right ever gains control of our government.

Rob Parizek

Dysart