CHRISTIANITY AND PATRIOTISM
Christianity and patriotism have much in common. It is significant to note that: Our patriotic hymn, “My Country, ‘Tis of Thee,” was written by a Baptist Clergyman, Samuel Francis Smith. The pledge of allegiance to the flag was written in 1892 by a Baptist minister, Francis Bellamy. The words, “In God We Trust,” carried on many of our coins are traced to the efforts of the Rev. W. R. Watkinson of Ridleyville, Pennsylvania. His letter of concern, addressed to the Hon. S. P. Chase, was dated November 13, 1861. Seven days later Mr. Chase wrote to James Pollock, Director of the U. S. Mint as follows: “No nation can be strong except in the strength of God, or safe except in His defense. The trust of our people in God should be declared on our national coins. Will you cause a device to be prepared without delay with a motto expressing in the finest and tersest words possible, this national recognition.”…
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