Antiquatis

The concept of "separation of church and state" is important for a Monastery, but in this country (USA) the concept has been blurred quite a bit because of the "non-profit" organizational system. Most churches these days are just non-profit corporations, not true churches.

The first amendment to the Constitution states, "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof..."

Some things to keep in mind:

The Supreme Court has ruled, "as long as a law does not target a particular religious practice, it does not violate the Free Exercise Clause."

'The Court said: "Congress cannot pass a law for the government of the Territory which shall prohibit the free exercise of religion. The first amendment to the Constitution expressly forbids such legislation." Of federal territorial laws, the Court said: "Laws are made for the government of actions, and while they cannot interfere with mere religious beliefs and opinions, they may with practices."'

Which, of course, ties in with what is "preached"... if one cannot practice what is preached without government intervention, then is there a true separation of church and state?

The Monastery is going to need a detailed doctrine as to preaching and practice, as not to conflict with the principles of the separation of church and state. I was wondering if anyone could fill me in on these concepts in other countries?