Ohio Constitutional Convention
By John Francis Olmsted
INTENSE interest marked the convention hall as the place in Ohio where delegates from all parts of the State were altering and adding to the organic law ratified sixty-one years ago. During the sessions several so-called reform measures were introduced; namely, three for the enforcement of Sunday rest; one to insert the name of God in the preamble, and to declare this a Christian State; and another to have the Holy Bible read in the public schools. Memorials and protests from those who love liberty were promptly sent to the members of the convention. These were read, and recorded in the Convention Journal. A great deal of personal work was done by the opposition, and we feel that the hand of the Lord still rules in the affairs of men. Religious legislation is designed primarily to curb conscience and restrict religious liberty, so this class of legislation was vigorously opposed and defeated. There is great need of educating the public mind on the subject of religious freedom, as sentiment is being created to sway the masses in favor of legalizing religion, and making it fundamental in the administration of law in both the State and the nation.