Reactions To Indiana Legislative Prayer Ruling

Today's Fort Wayne Journal Gazette carries an interesting discussion of reactions to Wednesday's federal court decision in Indiana prohibiting sectarian prayer in the legislature. Rev. John T. Pless of Concordia Theological Seminary commented, "Prayer is never generic. It is always a prayer that is addressed to some deity." Ira Lupu of George Washington University Law School remarked, "We now have this kind of cultural pluralism and expansive idea about faith and spirituality. The idea that there's even a non-sectarian prayer seems like a controversial idea." Meanwhile, state legislators have their own ideas. Rep. Terry Goodin, D-Crothersville, said, "I am not going to stand for this assault on our freedoms of speech and religion. A judge is not going to tell me what I can and cannot say to express my belief in Christ." And U.S. Rep. Stephen Buyer, R-4th, suggested prayers should continue from the floor area in the House chamber: "The well of the legislative body is the most deliberative and protected place in this country. Those who speak from it are granted immunity."