Throughout the church today, many are struggling with debates regarding the religious identity of our nation. By rejecting religious tests for public office, the Founders created space for people of any or no faith tradition to participate in public life together. No one faith tradition should rule the United States, just as the framers desired. Recognizing this, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America adopted “A Declaration of Inter-Religious Commitment,” which affirms that mutual understanding with other faith traditions can deepen our own faith. —“A Declaration of Inter-Religious Commitment,” p. 11The ministry of reconciliation is both local and national.