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The Pilgrims and others fled to the New World to escape religious persecution from the government of England. England had a State Church.

It was run by the government.
It was supported by taxes.
Other denominations were outlawed.

Before the Constitution was ratified, most of the Colonies had their own official churches, and they followed the practices of the British government – persecuting people who dared to organize or be involved in an unapproved church.

Therefore, the issue of the day was, Should the Government be in the Religion Business? And if so, which denomination should become the “official” church?

The First Amendment addressed this issue. “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion . . .” Do you get that? It’s very easy to understand. The Government cannot make a law concerning a person's religion:

The Government cannot create a State church.
The Government cannot outlaw any Christian denomination.
The Government cannot force people to go to church.
The Government cannot dictate that citizens be a member of any church.
The Government cannot command citizens to believe in God.
The Government cannot tell citizens what they are required to believe about God.
The Government cannot prohibit citizens from practicing their religion.

What it does not say:

It does not say the Government cannot acknowledge God.
It does not say the Government cannot acknowlege the Lord Jesus Christ.
It does not say that a cross or manger scene cannot be erected on public property.
It does not ban the Bible from public schools.

The wording of the First Amendment begins with, "Congress whal make no law..."