Anyone who’s actually read the U.S. Constitution would have to come to the conclusion that we are free to pray pretty much anywhere in the U.S. of A. Thankfully, at least 5 of the 9 U.S. Supreme Court justices read at least the First Amendment.
As I read this Newsweek article, I’m struck by several erroneous statements:
“The town of Greece in New York state did not violate the U.S. Constitution’s ban on government endorsement of religion by allowing prayers before its monthly meetings.”
That term “government” is WAY too broad and encompasses even local governments. There is no such thing as a Constitutional ban on “government endorsement of religion.” However, the 1st Amendment does prevent CONGRESS for making a law establishing a religion.
“The difficulty facing the justices was how to decide how courts should consider when a prayer could violate the First Amendment, which requires the separation of church and state.”
Nowhere in the First Amendment to our U.S. Constitution does it make any reference to “separation of church and state.”
Perhaps one of the most startling statements is the blatant lie written in Justice Kagen’s opinion. I’m not sure which Constitution she is using for reference, but it certainly isn’t the U.S. Constitution. She wrote,
“In my view, that practice does not square with the First Amendment’s promise that every citizen, irrespective of her religion, owns an equal share in her government.”
What’s baffling is how 4 Supreme Court Justices have made it this long as judges issuing opinions like the Justice Kagen wrote. You seriously need to hire someone to help you misunderstand the 1st Amendment. Don’t take my word for it. Take a look at the First Amendment for yourself.
Amendment I: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
Photo credit Chuck Coker