In a well regulated state it will be the business of the legislature to prevent sectaries of different denominations from molesting and disturbing each other; to ordain that no part of the community shall be permitted to perplex and harass the other for any supposed heresy, but that each individual shall be allowed to have and enjoy, profess and maintain his own system of religion, provided it does not issue in overt acts of treason against the state undermining the peace and order of society.

John Leland (1754-1841) American Baptist minister, civil libertarian
The Yankee Spy (1794) [writing as Jack Nipps]

 
Added on 3-Jun-09 | Last updated 3-Jun-09
Link to this post | No comments
More quotes by Leland, John

Thoughts? Comments? Corrections? Feedback?