If humanism needs a Patron Saint, surely Roger Williams (1603-1683) would be appropriate. The founder of Rhode Island strongly promoted complete separation of church and state, freedom of conscience, and urged that polytheists, deists, pagans, and atheists be excused from swearing on the Bible or to God. He preached the secular equality of all humanity, governance by consent, and fairness in trading with Native Americans.

Two sojourns to London finally resulted in a charter being granted July 8, 1663 by parliament and King Charles 11 recognizing Rhode Island and granting it "full liberty in religious concernment." Religious and secular freedom owes a debt of gratitude to Roger Williams.

Roger Williams, written by Edwin S. Gaustad, and published by Oxford University press 2005, is only 132 pages but it is packed with inspiration for humanists.

--Flo Wineriter