South Carolina Constitution (1790):
<ARTICLE 1, SECTION 23. And whereas the ministers of the Gospel are by their profession dedicated to the service of God and the care of souls, and ought not to be diverted from the great duties of their function, therefore no minister of the Gospel or public Preacher of any religious persuasion, while he continues in the exercise of his pastoral function, shall be eligible to the office of governor, lieutenant-governor, or to a seat in the senate or house of representatives.
ARTICLE 8, SECTION 1. The free exercise and enjoyment of religious profession and worship, without discrimination or preference, shall forever hereafter be allowed within this State to all mankind, PROVIDED, That the liberty of conscience thereby declared shall not be construed as to excuse acts of licentiousness, or justify practices inconsistent with the peace and safety of this State.
ARTICLE 8, SECTION 2. The rights, privileges, immunities, and estates of both civil and religious societies, and of corporate bodies, shall remain as if the constitution of this State had not been altered or amended.> 1790SC001
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American Quotations by William J. Federer, 2024, All Rights Reserved, Permission granted to use with acknowledgement.
Endnotes:
1790SC001. William J. Federer, American Quotations (2014). South Carolina Constitution, 1790.