Why should politicians get to decide how important religion is?

During this Covid situation, many politicians have taken it upon themselves to limit religious gatherings. This topic really came up today when I read a Supreme Court document for the case of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn vs. Governor of New York Andrew Cuomo.

In it, Justice Gorsuch wrote the following:

At the same time, the Governor has chosen to impose no capacity restrictions on certain businesses he considers “essential.” And it turns out the businesses the Governor considers essential include hardware stores, acupuncturists, and liquor stores. Bicycle repair shops, certain signage companies, accountants, lawyers, and insurance agents are all essential too. So, at least according to the Governor, it may be unsafe to go to church, but it is always fine to pick up another bottle of wine, shop for a new bike, or spend the afternoon exploring your distal points and meridians. Who knew public health would so perfectly align with secular convenience? 

This is in the US where they supposedly have freedom of assembly and freedom of worship, as specific in the 1st amendment of the US Constitution. So the absurdity is even more stark. How can a hardware store or acupuncturist be considered essential and allowed to open while a church or other place of worship be considered non-essential and forced to stay closed whether or not they follow safety protocols?

First of all, being free means you make your own choices when it comes to risks. If people are afraid to attend a church service, they can stay home. Why should the general populace be forced to stay home because the leader is very risk-averse.

The other question is who gets to decide what is essential and what isn't. Should a secular governor who is non-religious get to decide the value of a religious service? That is absolutely absurd. It's completely subjective. It'd be like asking me the value of an archery class if I have absolutely no interest in archery and have nothing to do with it. Not only that, I allow every other type of physical fitness facility to open, just not that particular one. No one would think that would be legitimate.

The leaders of the religions should be the ones to decide what is open and what isn't. There is meant to be a separation of church and state. I agree with that but only in the sense that the government should keep its paws off religious institutions. Do you really think the bishop cares nothing for his flock? Give me a break. I'm glad the diocese of Brooklyn is suing this terrible governor. He needs to be taught a lesson.