Re: seperation of church & state?

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As I read Jefferson; his only intention was to prevent the
state from establishing a state religion. The actions of our
early gov't reflected that. After all, there are engravings of
the commandments on the doors of Congress; to this day,
sessions of Congress are convened with prayer; and oaths of
office are administered by officials swearing on the Bible.

Don't get me wrong; I am not advocating a state religion; I am
simply refering to the fact that our gov't does reflect
religious ideals.

What got me thinking about this was the recent cases involving,
primarily local/state gov'ts displaying religious writing,
emblems, etc in official buildings. While the religion so
depicted is not mine, I see no wrong in their display.

On 7/08/04, US Supremes quoting Jefferson wrote:
> In the words of Jefferson, the clause against establishment
> of religion by law was intended to erect 'a wall of
> separation between Church and State."
>
> Everson v. Board of Education 330 US 1