Originally published in the Christian Library Journal in 1995

Contrary to popular opinion, public school students do not “shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate.”

In his book, Faith and Freedom, pastor-turned-lawyer Matthew Staver seeks to derail this and other myths of separation of church and state by educating Christians in the areas of free speech and religious rights.

Before 1940, the First Amendment was interpreted to restrain the federal government from meddling with religious issues within the states. Then in 1940, the Supreme Court applied the First Amendment Free Exercise Clause to the states. Now, instead of protecting the states from federal intrusion, the Supreme Court interprets the First Amendment as allowing the federal government to interfere with state matters regarding religion.

This interpretation has led to numerous conflicts in the area of religious liberty. Many court cases have arisen because people in authority have misunderstood what rights religious people do have.

In this book, Staver explains that, despite this change in the interpretation of the First Amendment, Americans still have the right to religious expression in many areas. He begins by clarifying the rights that students and teachers have in public schools. Then he proceeds to explain what rights people have to express religious ideas in public places. This discussion covers the use of public property and facilities, public prayers, demonstrations, door-to-door witnessing, and the posting of religious signs. Religious discrimination in the workplace and permitted political activities of nonprofit organizations are also discussed.

Staver cites numerous court cases to demonstrate what freedoms we do have and to point out areas where Americans have also lost some of their religious freedoms. Although these excerpts from court decisions may be difficult to read, the author clearly explains the rulings and frequently closes some of the chapters with concise summaries. The book also has eight helpful appendices and a short index.

By following this book’s practical guidelines, Americans can learn how they can express religious ideas without violating the so-called wall of separation and what to do when their rights are violated. It is a must-read for students, teachers, parents, public officials, and anyone else who is concerned about religious liberty issues. ( )