I think the whole idea of separation of church and state arose from a battle in Europe that went on for centuries. (See Investiture Controversy). Probably the stickiest part of the controversy involved who would have the authority to collect taxes from the the population--the church or the government. This contributed significantly to recurring "religious" wars, including the Protestant Revolt. Many of the original european settlers of North America came here to get away from all the fighting. Obviously, they felt the government should have the authority, and that the church should focus on spritual matters.

__________________
"Happiness lies not in the mere possession of money; it lies in the joy of achievement, in the thrill of creative effort. The joy and moral stimulation of work no longer must be forgotten in the mad chase of evanescent profits." FDR-First Inaugural Address