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Actively promoting freedom of religion is worth a look

Government’s role regarding freedom of religion often is viewed as a passive one, that it shall “make no law respecting an establishment of religion…” That is, government is not to support any faith over others.

But what if freedom of faith is threatened in the most fundamental way — by making people afraid to attend services in a house of worship?

In view of attacks during recent years on churches, synagogues and mosques, some Ohio lawmakers think the state should help protect them. A $5 million initiative, with religious bodies granted matching funds for security, has been proposed.

The idea is worth considering — but with reservations.

One is a concern about what happens when the state money runs out and some applicants have to be refused help

Still, the idea — of actively promoting freedom of religion — may be worth considering.

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