Does Muslim center project test religious tolerance for some?

Has the proposed Muslim community center project in Lower Manhattan tested the limits of the American public's tolerance? AP National writer Allen G. Breed questions U.S. society's commitment to "freedom from bigotry or prejudice."

As the Muslim community center project takes center stage in the media, Americans are now forced to examine how truly tolerant they are – or aren't.

In 1790, a letter to newly-elected President George Washington from Rhode Island's Moses Seixas concluded "God's hand" was in the establishment of a government free of bigotry. In reply, President Washington assured the Jewish leader that the United States represented a new chance for people to enjoy freedom and respect.

American history is resplendent with examples of religious tolerance, some unparalleled in human history. So, does the Muslim community center project represent a change of some American attitudes, or values, on any levels?

The New York Theological Seminary is an institution dedicated to diversity, religious tolerance, social justice and faith. The mission of the seminary is to train men and women for careers in ministry.

President Obama elevates proposed mosque to a national discussion

President Barack Obama has weighed in on the issue of a proposed mosque being constructed near the site of the World Trade Center attacks, in Lower Manhattan. On Saturday, President Obama said Muslims do have a right to build a cultural center where it is being proposed. President Obama went on to say that, in America, people should be treated equally, in accordance with this nation's laws.

Some of President Obama's critics have been vocal about his remarks about the Islamic center. Meanwhile, the president's remarks have also garnered support from those who espouse the rights of people to practice their faith free from governmental interference in the United States.

The New York Theological Seminary is dedicated to fostering religious tolerance and diversity. The mission of the seminary is to prepare men and women from a wide array of backgrounds for careers in ministry.

Dallas News blogger questions planned mosque near Ground Zero

From his religion blog at the Dallas News website, blogger Wayne Slater asks the question: "Is a mosque at Ground Zero religious freedom too far?"

Slater discusses plans for a $100 million mosque to be constructed nearby the scene of the attack, in Lower Manhattan.

Within his post, Slater describes the contour of decisions by U.S. courts to support his editorial, as well as comments from area lawmakers. He also poses questions about religious freedom to religious personalities within his newspaper's home state.

New York Theological Seminary is an institution dedicated to interfaith dialogue. During the 9/11 attacks, NYTS had many students and faculty volunteering in support of rescue efforts at the site of the Twin Towers.