Written by Don ByrdSenator Mary Landrieu last week proposed the “Freedom to Pray Act,” a bill that “would prohibit the federal government from withholding or revoking funds to programs whose participants engage in voluntary religious activities.” The proposal is in response to a dispute over a youth program administered by the Bossier Parrish Sheriff’s Office in Louisiana. The program involves some element of prayer and oath to God and had been funded in part by a Department of Justice grant, administered through the state’s Commission on Law Enforcement.
Written by Don ByrdThe Catholic News Weekly The Tablet relays findings from a new report on international religious persecution.
Written by Don ByrdDespite its clear dangers to church-state separation, a bill has been introduced in the U.S. Senate that would authorize FEMA funds to repair houses of worship following natural disasters. The issue has been a contentious one in the months following Hurricane Sandy. The Baptist Joint Committee has been throughout a leading voice of principle, arguing that current FEMA restrictions should be maintained. Aid to churches necessarily entangles public money with religion improperly.
Written by Don ByrdA Ten Commandments monument will stay on the courthouse lawn in West Virginia’s Wyoming County, despite the ACLU’s concern that it violates the separation of church and state. Not to worry, says County Prosecutor Michael Cochrane.
Written by Don ByrdChurch-state columnist Charles Haynes says Egypt demonstrates why democracy must include individual freedoms to do any good.
