Len 29

I'm going to stand up on a soapbox, though frankly I don't think I have the energy this deserves. But, I believe in the separation of church and state. That view is less than popular here in the Bible Belt, but a lot of my views and opinions are less than popular so it's neither here nor there. Why, on this night do I care about the separation of church and state? Because I was watching the news and I heard about the Spartanburg County Council controversy over prayers in public meetings. Councilman Mintz prayed and "invocation" (I use quotes b/c I'm not sure he knows what the word means) that caused someone to finally speak up. He prayed a HEAVILY Christian prayer, and very patriarchal prayer, and he used God to push his agenda. His agenda = abortion is the cause of humanity's downfall, same-sex marriage is not only sinful but sick, and missionaries, soldiers, and cops are great. Regardless--seriously, regardless--of where I fall on any of these particular issues, I believe in the separation of church and state. I don't think we should pray in public meetings at all, but if we must, I wouldn't make any christological claims or manipulate God into promoting a side.

I don't want the state mandating how the church runs, so I am pretty much okay with the church staying hands off the state. Where my faith does influence me is that I have a vote in this representative government. My faith influences me just as I'm sure it influences you and everyone. We are given the opportunity to vote out of our own convictions. And if we believe in democracy, we have to trust it. That's the agenda pushing part of my soapbox. The other part, the part where I think prayer should stay out entirely, comes from the fact that I have a deep respect for everyone's right to religious freedom and expression. When we only allow one form of expression, we are denying others. I had this conversation with my mother and she said she wouldn't have any problem if a Jew or Muslim wanted to pray at the Council meeting. She would have a problem, though, and so would so many other people. The result would likely be that prayer in public meeting would cease. The message: pray our way or no prayer at all. Even still, it's never equal or fair.

I could have a lot more to say on the issue, but I won't. I feel pretty strongly about it, though. Sure, the church influences the state, but I think it only should insofar as it influences me.