TUPELO, Miss.— The American Family Association issued the following statement after the United States Supreme Court ruled that public prayer at town board meetings does not violate the Constitution.
“We are extremely pleased with the Court’s ruling, as it upholds the religious liberty guaranteed in our Constitution and also recognizes the centuries of public prayer that have characterized our nation,” said AFA President Tim Wildmon. “From America’s earliest days, her leaders have publicly petitioned God for wisdom, forgiveness, and blessing, and even Thomas Jefferson – the author of the famous ‘separation of church and state’ letter – attended Congressionally permitted church services in the United States Capitol building. To this day, both Congress and the Supreme Court begin their proceedings with a prayer, and we applaud the Court for recognizing the truth about our nation’s history and laws, and upholding the precious freedoms woven throughout both.”
The Court ruled 5-4 this morning that public prayer at Greece, N.Y. town board meetings is permissible under the Constitution.
“These ceremonial prayers strive for the idea that people of many faiths may be united in a community of tolerance and devotion,” wrote Justice Anthony Kennedy for the majority. “Our tradition assumes that adult citizens, firm in their own beliefs, can tolerate and perhaps appreciate a ceremonial prayer delivered by a person of a different faith.”
For more information on American Family Association, visit www.afa.net.
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