Neither King nor Prelate : religion in the New Nation, 1776-1826

Notes: "After the Declaration of Independence, the idea was, in Jefferson's words, that 'all persons shall have full and free liberty of religious opinion; nor shall any be compelled to frequent or maintain any religious institution' (38). There were no religious tests for public office in the new constituion and the first amendment provided that 'Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the exercise thereof'. With the removal of government grants, churches not only survived but flourished. In the absence of other authorities, the Bible gained a unique infallibility. And as religion became individualist and private, traditional creeds were no longer regarded as binding" (p. 133). The Rev. William White, while Episcopal rector of Christ Church, Philadephia "also suggested a republican prayer book; a draft was submitted to General Convention in 1785 and only withdrawn when the Archbishops of Canterbury and York intimated they would be unwilling to consecrated bishops for the American church if the book were adopted. This book became the basis of Cummin's Reformed Episcopal Church" (p. 133).

Subjects: Church and state - United States - History - 18th century - Book reviews; Church and state - United States - History - 19th century - Book reviews; United States - Church history - 18th century - Book reviews; United States - Church history - 19th century - Book reviews