No prayer or hymns at graduation

kriner@sunmulti.com

 

There will be neither prayer nor hymns at Houston County’s

high school graduation ceremonies this year after a group that called itself

“freethinkers” filed complaints last year.

In past ceremonies, it wasn’t uncommon to hear Christian

songs such as “How great is our God” or to bow your head in prayer. However,

this year Superintendent Robin Hines says that will not happen.

Hines said, “The law is clear as far as religion is

concerned. We are mandated by the state to be religion neutral and we plan to

follow the law.”

Hines noted that students still have the right to freedom of

speech and full expression. For instance, if the valedictorian wishes to thank

God and his parents during his speech, he or she may do so.

Hines emphasized that graduation ceremonies are focused on

honoring student achievement.

“We are looking forward to celebrating with the students of

the 2013 graduation class,” Hines finished.

The issue arose after last year’s ceremonies when a man from

North Carolina came to watch his niece graduate. The man later filed a

complaint with the Freedom From Religion Foundation.

According to the foundation’s website, this is a group of

“freethinkers” who protect the separation of church and state and educate the

public on “non-theism.”

Also on the website, the logo of the Atheist Alliance

International is prominently displayed.

The Houston Home Journal asked its Facebook fans their

thoughts on the issue and here are some of the responses:

Ashley Offenberg said, “It’s a violation of freedom of

speech! However, since Dr. Hines has declared that the students are allowed to

express their freedom of speech, I hope they unite together and do as they

wish. Those commencement ceremonies are arranged and decided on by the senior

class! It’s a shame that decisions are being for them when these students have

worked so hard to succeed. They deserve the same spiritual prayer and song

choice that my class and every other one before and after me were allowed to

enjoy! It is my hope that students unite together and show that this ban will

not overshadow their joy for The Lord by giving thanks for the blessings he has

bestowed upon them and ask for guidance as they approach the next phase of

their lives. Congratulations to the Class of 2013!”

Jon Pierce said, “I say pray out loud and loud! What is the

BOE going to do? Arrest the senior classes and the families!”

Terre Moody Walker commented, “Spontaneous expression just

might be in order.”

Tammy Snow Norton said, “I really, really struggle with this

issue. To allow a Christian prayer or hymn means that you are also allowing

other religions to express their beliefs as well. Sorry, but I don’t wish for

my family to sit through a Muslim call to prayer or to have them witness

affirmation to Allah. We can’t ignore that Christians aren’t the only

‘believers.’ Wars are fought over religion, and schools shouldn’t be a

secondary battleground. I think this could be handled responsibly by the School

Board by allowing a 60-second silent ‘Moment of Reflection’ during the service.

Each person that truly holds their deity in their heart could take that time to

lift the graduating class as they see fit. For those that have no desire to

reflect religiously, they could use that time to reflect on their child’s

accomplishments, etc. Many churches/temples/etc hold special recognition

moments for graduating seniors during regular services and I feel that is very

appropriate. Also, not having prayer at the commencement does not mean God is

not with those students! Nothing is stopping them from wearing a cross,

silently praying, or meeting before or after the ceremony for a prayer circle.”

HHJ News