Written by Don Byrd
A new policy for Charlotte, North Carolina police chaplains forbids sectarian prayer at official functions, opting for more inclusive invocations. Americans United’s Simon Brown writes that while some clergy are resistant to this mandate, many others are embracing it.
The department “is telling its Christian chaplains to observe the same practices we would desire and respect from Jewish, Muslim, Buddhist or Hindu chaplains,” said the Rev. Dennis Foust of St. John’s Baptist Church of Charlotte, according to the report. “When we gather as citizens, we do not gather in the name of Jesus. Our prayers are offered to God with respect for the first clause of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.”
This is a tough issue, and I certainly don’t begrudge any minister who decides that inclusive, nonsectarian prayer is incompatible with his or her religious beliefs. At the same time, while in a position to lead the prayer of a multi-faith audience, and to do so in an official capacity sanctioned by U.S. taxpayers, is it too much to ask such prayers be respectful, inviting, and of service to all faiths? That’s not only in keeping with the spirit of the First Amendment, it’s a respectfully reverent posture to take in an interfaith setting. The role of government chaplain – ministering to, for and on behalf of everyone – may not be for everyone.
You can read the Charlotte chaplain policy here.
