What was a central tenet of the Maryland Act of Tolerance?

The Maryland Act of Tolerance, enacted in 1649, was primarily aimed at protecting the rights of Catholics in the colony of Maryland, which was founded as a safe haven for English Catholics facing persecution in Protestant England. This legislation allowed for freedom of worship for all Christians, but particularly sought to ensure that Catholics could practice their religion without fear of repression. It was significant in promoting religious pluralism in an era when religious intolerance was widespread.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the Act's intent. The mandate for church attendance and the prohibition of Catholicism reflect restrictive measures that are inconsistent with the Act's purpose of tolerance. The establishment of a tax on religious services does not relate to the core aim of the Act, which was to grant religious freedom rather than impose financial burdens on religious practice. Therefore, protecting the rights of Catholics was indeed a central tenet of the Maryland Act of Tolerance.