I just read this story linked through CNN.com that indicates some parents and others are upset about a school graduation being held in the auditorium of church claiming that the presence of “a huge cross…pews with bibles and hymnal books…” is a clear violation of the Separation of Church and State clause operating in America today. The reason why the school chose the church? Money (its cheaper) and comfort (the church has air conditioning and padded seating). In other words, in the interest of the taxpayers and of the students/teachers – that is to say, in the interest of those who are opposing the act.
Before responding, I should say that I am actually in favor of the Church and State remaining separate because when they get too intertwined, it becomes bad for both – the Church becomes corrupted by money and power and the State becomes corrupted by oppressive religion.
That said, those who oppose the graduation ceremony being held in a church is utterly ridiculous and violates every good intention behind Separation of Church and State. The assumption is that people have an unwritten right, not just to not be forced to participate in religious ceremonies or have their tax dollars support religious institutions that they disagree with, but also to not be “forced” (if such a thing could be considered force) to see – not even read or respect – but see religious symbols when participating in a State event.
Such an assumption is ludicrous! They might have a case if the school was sanctioning a public prayer, a worship-song set, or a sermon – but no, just the mere sight of religious symbols or the knowledge that the facility is primarily used for religious purposes somehow, beyond all logic, defies the clause which prevents the State from funding and/or endorsing particular religious views. The application of Separation of Church and State to this situation actually belittles it.
Friends who are opposing the graduation: you are sorely mistaken if you feel that the graduation in the church is a violation of your rights. Should your “case” succeed in court and you get your way to not have this graduation in church, quite unintentionally you are actually compromising the very rights you are insisting upon. Not only yours, but all of our rights. You are compromising the very purpose behind the Separation of Church and State and America in general.
Filed under: Uncategorized Tagged: | America, Church, Politics
Well said. I agree. The school was in no way supporting the Church’s view or mission. And how funny, taxpayers complaining when their tax dollars are being spent wiser (to save money). Funny how quick people are to complain about things like this … I’m going to start complaining about the size of big State buildings because they make me feel small and tiny and that hurts my feelings – and I’m offended, because they’re trying to make me feel stupid. Blah blah blah.
Good article.