Without the slightest hint of irony.

PRESIDENT OBAMA: Today we profess the principles we know to be true. We believe that each of us is wonderfully made in the image of God. We, therefore, believe in the inherent dignity of every human being. Dignity that no earthly power can take away. And central to that dignity is freedom of religion. A right of every person to practice their faith how they choose, to change their faith if they choose, or to practice no faith at all. And to do this free from persecution and fear.

Our faith teaches us that in the face of suffering we can’t stand idly by, that we must be that good samaritan. In Isaiah we are told to do right, to seek justice, defend the oppressed. The Torah commands to know the feelings of the stranger having yourselves been strangers in the land of Egypt. The Koran instructs stand out firmly for justice.

History shows that nations that uphold the rights of their people, including the freedom of religion are ultimately more just and more peaceful and more successful. Nations that do not uphold these rights sow the bitter seeds of instability and violence and extremists. So freedom of religion matters to our national security.