No more of the foundation of giving people like Me and even you the freedom of religion. This is what scares other countries that kill those who want Free religion and try it as Pakistan or Egypt.
Also it was a Christian church that worked with other religions and even Atheist to make way for sailing to America.
I can't say to much good stuff myself about Catholics but i won't bash them. My wife comes from a strong Roman catholic background and family and I helped her convert to Baptist. I and her are now looked down upon from them and i am sure bad mouthed but i can care less.
I think you're giving christianity way too much credit. American principles prevent me from being oppressed by religion, it's not the religious institutions that are fighting for freedom. Even in our current age you can still feel the grip of religion on various policies.
I feel your pain on dealing with the wife's parents. I've walked those shoes myself. I almost married a preacher's daughter. Nothing says awkward like being the tattooed up, bike riding, gun loving, atheist boyfriend at christmas dinner in a preacher's house.