The Founding Fathers never meant for people of religious convictions to be drummed out of public discourse or fearful of operating in the public square.
In fact, our Founding Fathers intended the exact opposite. As early as grade school, American students begin to learn of the Founding Fathers' intent and the importance of the First Amendment. In grammar school, young Americans learn that this experiment in democracy succeeded because at its core citizens have the right to practice their religion without fear or restraint.
(Published in Charisma Magazine - charismamag.com)
Ben Carson, Carson Campaign Press Release - Why the Church Cannot Remain Silent Any Longer Online by Gerhard Peters and John T. Woolley, The American Presidency Project https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/node/311870