There’s one day each year that doesn’t garner decorations or turkeys, a day off work or a special stamp from the Post Office. It’s Jan. 16: Religious Freedom Day.

The day and the topic aren’t new or trendy. In fact, Thomas Jefferson was already writing about the importance of protecting religious liberty, afforded by the First Amendment, in the 1786 Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom:

No man shall be compelled to frequent or support any religious worship, place, or ministry whatsoever, nor shall be enforced, restrained, molested, or burthened in his body or goods, nor shall otherwise suffer on account of his religious opinions or belief; but that all men shall be free to profess, and by argument to maintain, their opinion in matters of religion, and that the same shall in no wise diminish, enlarge, or affect their civil capacities.

This month, we’re delivering uniquely LCMS resources specially designed to help you, your congregations, classrooms and colleges speak up about what we as Lutherans are “free to profess” about key matters facing America today.

You can download these free and easily reproducible resources at www.lcms.org/freetobefaithful:

• A three-part Bible study — comprised of essays written by LCMS pastors — explaining what the Bible teaches us about marriage, life and religious liberty;
• A colorful, pro-life mini-poster for youth that outlines how young people can support the sanctity of life;
• An inspiring Christian citizenship mini-poster that clarifies how Christians live in both the realm of the Church and the state;
• A revealing marriage timeline that details how the cultural understanding of marriage has morphed and changed over the years;
• A Facebook banner that reads, “I support religious freedom for all!” so you can show your support of religious liberty in the public square; and
• A Facebook timeline photo bearing the above phrase, which can help you start a conversation with your friends about what you believe as a Lutheran.

While you’re there, consider taking some time to peruse www.lcms.org/freetobefaithful, where you’ll learn more about the Synod’s “Free to be Faithful” campaign, which serves to educate and raise awareness about key issues in America today. You’ll find webinars, the latest news on issues of religious freedom, toolkits, FAQs and other resources.

Finally, sign up for the Free to be Faithful quarterly newsletter, which will keep you up-to-date on how you and other Lutherans can speak the truth in love in the public square and what the LCMS is doing to defend religious liberty on a national scale.

This January, and especially Jan. 16, thank you for supporting religious freedom for all!