FEMA Photographer refuses to photograph anyone in a "faith-based" shirt

The separation of Church and State was a great innovation of the Founders of the United States. Having seen the way that an institutional church is corrupted by power, they put in place a system where religion and statecraft maintain separate spheres of influence. But there are some who take "separate spheres of influence" to mean more than simple separation. For instance, a FEMA photographer who required a church group to remove their "faith-based" shirts before interviewing them for a video.

To their credit, the FEMA chief has apologized for the incident. But it is a good reminder that there are those who take "separation" to mean "hostility".

Salvation Army in Haiti

If you are looking for another way to help out in Haiti, the Salvation Army is active in the country and is accepting donations for relief online. They have been working hard in the country for years, and are very aware of the unique needs of Haitians in this difficult time.

Thanks to Mod-Blog friend Shadowmom for reminding me about this option.