Quote:
Originally Posted by Excaliber
We can take separation to far, I do believe. Like "One Nation Under God" or the pledge of allegiance. Prayer in schools is tricky, enforced with to heavy a hand at times, justifiable in others.
In regards to THIS rally I think the Pentagon made the right call. They sound like a great bunch of patriotic folks and I support their christian outlook on life. The Pentagon concluded, in this instance, that it was primarily a religious gathering first, a call to honor Vets second. Both worthy efforts. I would have to agree with the Pentagon's conclusion on this particular rally.
On another issue. It really bother's me when private religious schools accept money the Federal governement supplies for whatever program's they may have. School lunches for instance, or whatever. There should be a strict separation there as well. Primarily because the religious school may be tempted or pressured to change their religious convictions due to the Fed influence. Indeed, they may be COMPELLED to change their standards because they have accepted money.
The rally in question here may have been authorized for a fly over by one simple change. Remove the religious statements, bible verse quotes and clear references to a "Godly lifestyle" from their brochures. Put the emphasis back on a celebration for Vets, country, etc. Let them have their christian music and/or prayer time, just be a little more "low key" with it, IF they expect to have Federal support.
NASCAR seems to strike a nice balance in that regard.
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Our Founding Fathers wouldn't have had a problem this event or a prayer at a football game, or a graduation. For example:
In 1782 Congress pursued a plan to print Bibles.
Thomas Jefferson urged local governments to make land available specifically for Christian purposes, provided Federal funding for missionary work among Indians tribes, and declared that religious schools would receive the patronage of the government. H.S.888 Dec.18,2007
I can cite many dozens of like acts and quotes of the Founding Fathers. The present day secular position is the total opposite of early America. The term separation of church and state wasn't even used until 1947, when in a Supreme Court decision they quoted the term used in the private letter of Thomas Jefferson. Our Founding Fathers would be astounded at the secular position that is now propagated.
Does it make since that the first amendment would give freedom to the press, to free speech, and than to limit religious expression. I realize all three have boundaries, but not legal limits in their expression. Only freedom of religion has been bound, and limited.