Religious freedom is one of the basic tenets of American society. Our faith is so much a part of our country that we print in the words &uot;In God We Trust&uot; on every piece of our currency.

Religious freedom is also a touchy issue and one that can be twisted and turn and molded into almost fashion.

How and when we choose to practice our faith – or not practice any faith at all for that matter — is completely up to the individual.

Remembering the importance of that freedom is important especially in the wake of the Southern Baptist Convention’s decision that women should no longer be allowed to serve as pastors.

Some people will likely be shocked by the move. Others will be outraged that anyone would dare question the authority of a religious group’s convictions.

Feminists will scream foul which could force the Convention members to dig in their heels. And unfortunately, little may be gained out of the entire debate.

While no person has the right to tell another person how to worship his religion, we admit that we were surprised by the Southern Baptists’ point of view and action on the matter.

Without trying to pick on the Southern Baptist Convention, we find it troubling to understand why a religious group would choose to shut out a segment of society from serving.

Choosing to devote one’s life to serving one’s faith is a difficult choice and one that comes only through a true conviction of mind and spirit. And it’s difficult to think that someone who makes such a commitment would not be allowed to lead.

Aside from holding a different opinion about the matter, what upsets us most is that much time, energy and attention will be focused on the controversy. And we feel that time, energy and attention could be better spent on helping people come together as &uot;one nation under God.&uot;