> Read it, Pass this on. The founders of freedom in the United States
> tried to eliminate the problem but unfortunately the problem is an
> incurable cancer.
> FFR
>
>         "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."
>
>                             - James Madison
>                               "A Memorial and Remonstrance", 1785 ...