“The primary objectives, of government, are the peace, order and prosperity of society… To the promotion of these objects, particularly in a republican government, good morals are essential. Institutions for the promotion of good morals are, therefore, objects of legislative provision and support: and among these…religious institutions are eminently useful and important…The legislature, charged with the great interests of the community may, and ought to countenance, aid and protect religious institutions – institutions wisely calculated to direct men to the performance of all the duties arising from their connection with each other, and to prevent or repress those evils which flow from unrestrained passion…The legislature may aid the maintenance of Christianity, whose benign influence on morals is universally acknowledged. It may be added that this principle has long been recognized, and is too intimately connected with the peace, order and happiness of the state to be abandoned.”

Oliver Ellsworth (Founding Father/Third Chief Justice of the United States)