Pennsylvania City Council Is Strong On Sectarian Prayer

Philadelphia Inquirer columnist Monica Kinney yesterday reported on a rather extreme example of sectarian prayer at meetings of the Coatesville, Pennsylvania City Council. Two of the council members are ministers. At the Feb. 12 meeting, one of them, Democrat Kurt Schenk, began the meeting with: "Holy Father, we commend this city into your hands." The other, Republican Council President Patsy Ray, said: "I am like Jesus, I'll stand!" and, "I will serve the people as my God." Schenk also says lawyers are helping him draft a Council resolution that will affirm City Council's belief in the power of prayer.