Thomas Jefferson on Religious Freedom

“Almighty God hath created the mind free. All attempts to influence it by temporal punishments or burdens… are a departure from the plan of the holy Author of our religion. … No man shall be compelled to frequent or support any religious worship or ministry or shall otherwise suffer on account of his religious opinions or belief, but all men shall feel free to profess and by argument to maintain, their opinions in matters of religion. I know but one code of morality for men whether acting singly or collectively.” (A quote from Thomas Jefferson, carved into the wall of the Jefferson Memorial in Washington DC.)