School vouchers, the Pledge of Allegiance, abortion rights, financial aid to religious teaching institutions and religious expression in public forums are but a few examples of the abundance of church and state concerns brought before the Supreme Court in recent years. These issues underscore an incontrovertible truth in the American legal system: the relationship between the state and religion in this country is still fluid and changing.

"The founding fathers intentionally built into our constitution a separation of church and state, however; it has been challenged in the last 60 years resulting in many instances where government exerts influence in the realm of religious beliefs," said Professor James F. Hitchcock. Hitchcock will relate relevant cases as early as 1789 about what the Supreme Court has said about church and state.

Daniel Dreisbach, professor of Public Affairs at American University commented on "The Supreme Court and Religion in American Life" and stated, "…The book compels a rethinking of prevailing legal doctrines and thus has the potential to have a significant impact on the continuing debate on the constitutional relationships between religion and American life."

"President Lyndon B. Johnson said, 'the separation of church and state is a source of strength, but the conscience of our nation does not call for separation between men of state and faith in the Supreme Being''," said Alison Yount, president of Catholics@Work. "Professor Hitchcock will help us to understand the current landscape of the church and state controversy."

Professor Hitchcock holds a Ph.D. from Princeton University and has an accomplished background in teaching Law and History at St. Louis University where he has served as the Acting chair, Department of History. He is a distinguished author writing numerous books and scholarly articles on topics addressing religion and law.

About Catholics@Work
Catholics@Work is committed to fostering fellowship and connectivity among Catholics facing the realities of life in today's workplace environment. The monthly breakfast gatherings are a unique opportunity for Catholics to:

• grow in their understanding of the Catholic faith,
• be encouraged to apply the principals of their faith in the everyday workplace,
• and, to network with other Catholic business professionals.