The importance of religious freedom is comparable to, but deeper than, the importance of a free market. The freedom to believe, share, gather, and live according to our religion allows us to focus on what's most important thus be productive in the most important areas of our lives(see Elder Hales' talk).
When a government tries to over-regulate or shut down markets, people inevitably continue trading. Only instead of doing it openly, it is done in a black market. Likewise, people have found ways to continue worshipping God under all sorts of oppression (see Mosiah 24:11-12).
Even though people can still worship while under attack, the joy of the gospel can be spread even more efficiently when there is religious freedom. In fact, "no government can exist in peace, except such laws are framed and held inviolate as will secure to each individual the free exercise of conscience, the right and control of property, and the protection of life"(Doctrine and Covenants 134:2).
I want to better embrace the idea that people are free by respecting their conscience driven choices. I believe that many people share this desire.
I am excited about a facebook event that I hope will give the opportunity to many people to share why they are grateful for the religious freedom that we have. For the event, people post why they are grateful for religious freedom with #religiousfreedom. If you want to join the event, follow this link, join, and invite friends! If you are part of the event, then you will see a reminder posted on the event page.
I hope we can all find ways to share what's important to us.
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