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Group Claims High School Prayers Illegal; Students Take A Stand
September 5, 2012
The Escambia County (Ala.) School District has banned prayers at events like football games, but that did not stop a group of Flomaton High students from taking a stand on the football field last Friday.
The students stood hand-in-hand along the sidelines before the game in prayer. No faculty or staff took part in the student led, student initiated prayer.
Prayers led over the public address system at Flomaton High School football games was common prior to this year, as was the recital of the Lord’s Prayer by both players and coaches following Hurricane football games.
But that all came to an end prior to Flomaton’s Friday night season opener against Monroeville after the school district received a letter from the Freedom from Religion Foundation that claimed such prayers were illegal.
“A local complainant has reported to us that Flomaton High School has a local pastor, often a Baptist minister, pray before each home football game. This practice is unconstitutional,” FFRF attorney Andrew L. Seidel wrote in a letter to Escambia County (Ala.) School Superintendent Randall Little and Flomaton High Principal Scott Hammond. “It is illegal for a public school to organize, sponsor, and lead prayers at public school events. The Supreme Court has continually struck down formal and teacher or school-led prayer in public schools.”
The Freedom from Religion Foundation is a national nonprofit group with about 19,000 members with the purpose to “protect the constitutional principal of separation between state and church”.
“We ask that Escambia County Public Schools commence an immediate investigation into the complaint alleged, and take immediate action to stop any and all prayers occurring before all Escambia County Public Schools athletic events, including those at Flomaton High School,” Seidel wrote.
The school district responded to the letter by enforcing a ban against facility and students from participating in or leading prayer at school sponsored events.
Comments
97 Responses to “Group Claims High School Prayers Illegal; Students Take A Stand”
Good job to all those who stood up against the FFRF and prayed. Matthew 10:32-33 “So everyone who acknowledges me before men, I also will acknowledge before my Father who is in Heaven, but whoever denies me before men, I also will deny before my Father who is in Heaven.”
It would make the men who actually wrote the amendments of the Constitution sick how it is perverted to meet every minority group(not racial) needs.
God bless each and every one. Someone needs to explain what our Constitution says and means. From the Bill of Rights.
Amendment ! Congress shall make no law respecting an ESTABLISHMENT of religion, or PROHIBITING the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceable to assemble, and to pertition the Government for a redress of grievances.
Since we live in a free country I believe it is up to each school to decide for themselves not a group of people who do not even live in the state much less attend any of the games.
The people that founded the lawsuit should be located and “outed” to let the community know who these people are…. they are not above the law… They are hiding behind a lawsuit against children that are trying to live their lives the way God intended. I’m sure when these people are “outed”, they will stand down when the community knows who they are. They are cowards, and I,m sure if they have children, they will be surprised to learn about their beliefs. The community needs to take a stance against bullying … and that for what it is ,is BULLYING, nothing less.
this freedom from religion useless group that steals our tax money to do this was recently kicked out of TX for pulling this load. What they are doing is unconstitutional. Do not allow any school admin to side with these low life failures. The school boards are now union. Which means they are controlled much like Nazi Germany was controlled. Speak up people, the constitution is on God’s side. It is legal as well for every teacher,and parent to participate. Do not allow a group of losers at life to bully you. Stand up for God,your country,and your children.
I am so proud of this group of students! We all have the right and privilege to stand up for what we believe. It takes courage to take a stand for GOD but the rewards are never ending. God bless each family represented on that field.
I’m an atheist, and I think these students have every right to hold prayers. No one is forcing the non-religious students to pray.
I like that the school district is willing to abide by constitutional law, but surely this isn’t the way to be doing it. Go after the idiots who refuse to teach evolution – that’s where the real damage is being done.
Jesus said, “And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly” (Matthew 6:5 and 6).
I am SO PROUD of every single one of these students! It is YOUR RIGHT to stand up for what you believe in! This country was built based on OUR GOD! “One nation UNDER GOD” Recently, this has gone downhill. I pray for whoever bought this to the attention of the FFRF. People may put us down, but we must stand up for the God we serve. “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.” 1 Corinthians 16:13
Keep it up, Flomaton Hurricanes! “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
I’m so proud of these students for taking a stand for what’s right and hope more people will follow their example! For too long we Christians have been muzzled, persecuted, and denied our rights to free speech and religion while people with other beliefs have not. When we pray before a sporting event, we’re praying for ALL the players, coaches, etc. — even the ones who aren’t Christians and those who wish we wouldn’t pray — for their safety and health and, yes, their souls because we all need it, whether we want it or not. We must stop giving in to the LOUD DEMANDING WHINING MINORITY WHO WOULD LIKE NOTHING BETTER THAN TO SEE ALL CHRISTIANS SILENCED FOREVER. The US is a republic where the majority rules founded on Christian doctrine. It’s time we returned to it!
You students
you did Good Kids;I Agree 100% I WILL PRAY FOR YOU ALL ALSO.fg
Freedom of Speech is out first Ammendent Let us all use it .We should all go to the next game and ,show our Kids how we all feel not be Told what to do.I will pray when ever I Feel the need .My savior is Good and we should not be told not to PRAY>..Faye
Congratualtions to the students who took a stand for what they belive in. It is sad to say but I don’t know if I would have done the same. I would have been worried I would get in trouble for some reason. God is good!
SO PROUD OF YOU CANES FOR TAKING A STAND FOR WHAT YOU BELEIVE IN. IT IS KINDA OF STRANGE FOR SOMEONE TO KICK AGAINST SOMETHING THEY DON”T BELIEVE IN. I AM A PROUD CHRISTIAN AND I DON’T PUSH MY BELIEFS ON ANYONE. BUT BECAUSE AN INDIVIDUAL DOES’NT BELIEVE IN SOMETHNG WHY MAKE THINGS DIFFICULT FOR US THAT DO. IT’S KINDA LIKE KICKING AGAINST THE PRICK. AS LONG AS WE HAVE GOD ON OUR SIDE, HE SAID THAT HE IS MORE THAN THE WHOLE WORLD AGAINST US. SO PRAY ON MY CHILD.
@ Jaygrad
Because this is a SCHOOL EVENT. You know who bought those football pads, those helmets, the bleachers…tax payers. Tax payers with a varied background of all religions.
You are basically saying…”If you don’t like the prayer, then just leave, don’t come, or don’t listen.” It’s not that easy. Don’t you understand how exclusionary that is? Or how isolating that is to a student of a different religion? Sure, its my right to be present at a school event or not, but it is also my right as an American citizen to not be preached at during a SCHOOL EVENT.
These people that/who scream for seperation from God, let them be patient for when they leave this world,they will find themselves in a place where they can truly be seperate, a place called hell. I hope they can find satisfaction there.
@ Justsayin
In no way am I trying to stop the practice of religion or any particular religion. I have no greater issue with Christianity then I have with any other religion. If this was a Muslim, or Jewish, or Mormon, or Scientologist prayer being led on school property prior to a school sponsored event, it should be squashed immediately.
Believe me, in a way I am proud of these students. To have young people band together, and stand up for what they believe in is inspiring. But, that still doesn’t make their actions right. In fact, this exact scenario was already deemed unconstitutional in 2000 (Supreme court case Santa Fe Independent School Dist. v. Doe).
“Santa Fe Independent School Dist. v. Doe, 530 U.S. 290 (2000), was a case heard before the United States Supreme Court. It ruled that a policy permitting student-led, student-initiated prayer at high school football games violates the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment.”
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Fe_Independent_School_Dist._v._Doe
Even as a student lead prayer, the fact that the prayer is being held on school property, prior to a school event, and with a specific time set aside for it…Its likely still unconstitutional.
GREAT Job for those ones that prayed and stood for what they believe in. I know it took a lot for you all to take a stand. I know that after it was over you felt better. I pray for each and every one of you all that you will allways take that stand. Remember GOD always comes first in our lives and as long as we recognize him and are not ashamed of him then he will not be ashamed of us when that judgement day comes. GOD BLESS
It is not mandatory to go to any game or school activity other than school itself, so with that said then how are students and peers a captive audience to whom ever prays? If an outside affiliate to the school wants to pray then why cant they? If you do not want to listen to it or join in then you do not have to. It is YOUR right to be there or NOT to be there, USE IT
don’t expect many here to pay attention to this posting, but what I have to say needs to be said. Maybe it will get through to a few. First, Did you ever notice how hard it is to amend the US Constitution? It takes a two-thirds majority of both houses of Congress and three-fourths of the states to ratify an amendment. This means that the majority does not get to dictate the rights of the people. The first amendment cannot be enforced by majority rule. The wording is well known. Based on this wording, it has been established by supreme court precedent that no government, federal, state, or local, can support any sectarian prayer or participate in any religious ritual on government property, on the government’s time, and/or on the government’s dime. (This principle is routinely violated, as in this case, with no legal ramifications whatsoever unless a group like FFRF or ACLU files a lawsuit.) This especially applies to public schools, where students are a captive audience, and especially subject to coercion and peer pressure. I suppose it’s a matter of conjecture as to whether there was actually no participation by school officials in this matter, but I suspect that if the kids had cooked up something not sanctioned by the school administration, then it would have been immediately quashed. Therefore it’s probably the case that they (school officials) were involved, and therefore the school district would almost assuredly lose any potential court case, probably at the appellate level.
Stand up for Jesus if you have to stand alone……..way to go students…..don’t let the FFRF attorney Andrew L. Seidel get the best of any of you……Great Job…keep up the good work…
The issue I have is that religious groups are continuously bashing other religions and others lifestyle choices and how those groups publicly display said choices forcing it on those in attendance. Yet they are the first to display their religious views forcing it on others to endure.
If it is alright for them to lead a prayer before the game, than let’s have a Muslim led half time show? Or how about a Buddhist led post-game prayer… It is all religions that have a right to be practiced in the United States of America and just as old as modern Christianity. Others are just as devote about their beliefs, so why not?
And all I have to say about laws:
Romans 13:1
1 Peter 2:13
This is the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard!
I applaud these young people for their courage. It actually gives us a shimmer of hope to know that “some” of our children will grow up with morals and values and hopefully raise their children in the same manner. My child goes to Northview and if he were to stand up for his beliefs in this manner, you can bet I would stand right beside him. For the self pronounced atheist – you made your choice, so live the way you want to. You will suffer the consequences not the rest of us – and yes that is MY belief. And you may have yours.
First we legalize gay marriages in some states, and now this. Moving to a “communist” country isn’t sounding so bad anymore. This country has done nothing but go down hill for the past 10 years or so and I don’t see it getting any better. Its very sad when vets post on here and express their sorrow of what this country (and people) have sunk to after everything they went and put their lives on the line for. I pray for you all-whether you like it or not!
I admire the courage of these young Americans. They have my prayers and support.
I see these beings that scorn our prayers, that curse our Christ, that raise the star of their moloch, they are having a little season, but when God has had enough he will deliver the serpent’s seed to destruction as he has in the past. I think of John chapter 19 when Pilate made the sign for Christ cross, it read Jesus the son of God. The Pharisees read it and were angry. They told Pilate that it should read he claimed to be the son of God. Pilate told the Pharisees ” I have written what I have written”. We should stand up to these beings as well. America is and will always be One Nation Under God. The children of satan may run this world to his ends, but his and his own are running out of time, for the day of the Lord is comming.
If these people step on too many toes, God will move his mighty hand off of this country, And everyone will wonder why we have got in such a bad state. There is one Jesus. Lets worship him anytime and anywhere. He is worthy to be praised all of the time. Praise God!!!!!!!
OK – I’m all for what these kids did but my question is when is someone going to quit letting some groups kick them around and cause something like this to happen? Why don’t someone sue this group for a violation of the freedom of speach? I think you have a good case.
I can’t believe how many commentors here jump to the wrong assumptions and conclusions. Nobody cares if students, or anyone else, prays at the game on their own initiative. The only issue is when it is facilitated by the school, which is public, and should not engage in or encourage any religious ceremony.
Proud to be an American veteran, atheist, and FFRF member.
Steve D., what I understand from reading the article here on NorthEscambia and from the news channel. This was initiated and lead by students. No adults participated. None of the salary teachers, coaches, officials or even local pastors took part in organizing these young minds. They thought for themselves and lead themselves in this. The FFRF was said to have had a problem with teachers or such personnel from helping or taking part. I understand that the school and faculty can not because of their ties with the government as you said but these students started it. They lead it, they were the catalyst to it all. Where then is the leg that FFRF is standing on for this shouldn’t be allowed? Everyone is saying well what if it was a complete turn around and another religion was trying to do the same? Id support them for standing up for their beliefs as I bow my head and pray beside them for mine. I’m no way shape or form trying to say my religion is better. I’m saying stop trying to stop any religion.
Thank you for standing up for what you believe in!!!! Now what would be great is that if the visiting team players/parents/supporters would line the visiting side in the same manner to show support.
I wish the person that complained about this would come forwarded and let people see him or her.
There are many countries where you do not have religious freedom. Maybe it started like this…stopping prayer in schools. Keep and treasure your freedoms while you have them. Freedom of speech, religious freedom, the right to bear arms. There are those who want to remove these freedoms from us. There are many many who have fought and died for these rights.
Just sayin,
The members of the Supreme Court are far more educated on first amendment issues than you or I will ever be. It’s strange because I completely agree with you in what you say, but I believe you are being hypocritical.
The Constitution and the interpretation thereof does exactly as you say, it “limit(s) the power of the Government over the people.” That’s why the government does not stand in the way of our very personal choices; like a woman’s right to choose, my right to bear arms, or your right to practice your religion. But here is the crux of the argument that you need to understand. A public school is an arm of the government. Its an arm of your local government, with an elected superintendent, teachers as employees, and all salaries funded by local tax dollars.
So we agree, I would like the government to keep out of my religious choices, and to stay out of yours. But you’re just not quite understanding that a public school is a part of your government, and therefore all employees thereof cannot trample on my personal freedom by holding a Christian prayer. Plain and simple.
Fur Real, games start at certain times. If you don’t want to see what happens before that time don’t show up till time for the game. Its like a movie with all the previews.
Pray all you want, folks. Nobody’s stopping you or trampling on your rights.
You’re mad that the school can’t organize a prayer session for you? You really want the government telling you when and how you can pray? Nobody’s stopping you from doing it on your own.
Sit in the stands and pray for the entire game if you want. I got no problem with that.
Just keep your butt off the field. I came for a football game, not to watch you pretend to be religious.
PRAYER IS OUR ONLY HOPE…THIS COUNTRY WAS FOUNDED ON THE PRINCIPLES OF THE BIBLE and our country was built with the prayers of our forfathers…WE HAVE FREEDOM OF SPEECH….FREEDOM OF RELIGION….LEAVE THE CHILDREN ALONE AND LET THEM EXERCISE THEIR RIGHTS….WE WILL FALL AS A GREAT NATION WITHOUT PRAYER!!!!
The constitution also says we have a freedom to religion. That means if we want to pray publicly we can. It aint like were making a protest and hurting people. All we are doing is taking a stand against people. God is important in Flomaton, Alabama. And I pray that through this people in goverment will realize that. And hopefully it will be unbanned because, I want to be able to pray during school. If we lay down to this the next thing we know is that they want let us say GODs name in the pledge of alliegence.
Good for you, Lisa!!!!!!!!! I hope more will join you!!!!!!!!
I am very proud of all the students who stood on that field Friday night hand in hand and prayed. I was in the stands and was praying right along with them. Christians are gonna have to stand up and fight for our rights to be able to pray when and where we want to. I would like for the person who started this mess to step forward and face everybody. It is ashamed that we let one person rule what happens in situations like this. I have had the opportunity to watch the rituals of people from India when the bought out businesses where I use to work. When they started their ritual I just stood back and watched and let them practice it in peace. I will be out on that football field ready to pray at the next ballgame. GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
How do you suppose folks would react if some Wiccan students worked a spell for a better school year? or a group of Zen students led a meditation, for enlightenment? If you are against ANY religion, in America, you’re against freedom of religion. Student led? No problem! Only Christian activities? Ah! there’s the rub! All area congregations of all faiths should push their youth to exhibit their faith in school. Then, perhaps, we’ll see the limits of freedom.
@Steve D. Sir, respectfully, this is not a case of a school endorsing a religion. It is pure and simple the case of a group of bright young Americans freely practicing their faith at a football game. If their right to say a prayer offends you and your ilk then so be it. They have a right as free Americans to do this here, at home or at any public area. You are confused as to the findings of the Supreme Court or are willfully distorting their findings to fit your agenda. Shame on all of you.
Steve D., The Supreme court cannot stop people from preforming their Constitutional Right and if anyone realized the Constitution is there to limit the power of the Government over the people. Not limit the Rights of the people. It was set fourth by our founding fathers so that no man would come under the scrutiny of a Government, such as the colonies under the crown. If the Supreme Court has a problem with understanding what our Constitution does for the people. Well I suggest they apply for a new job and enroll in a History class some where. American’s are getting tired of being trampled on and ran over by those shown the courtesy to practice their religion. We show that courtesy so you can practice what you want. We just want the same courtesy back. If you can’t give it back then I don’t want to here your beliefs or have them shoved down my throat. Just saying
for the ones who think AMERICAN citizens have no right to the separation of church and state …i have a perfect solution for you….move to a nation ruled by a religious dictatorship …. and ENJOY your LACK OF FREEDOM when you get there !!!!!!
I am proud of the students that took a stand to pray…We are a free country to pray, if someone does not want to pray than step aside and let the ones praying do their praying……..When DO OUR RIGHTS COME IN SO WE CAN PRAY WHEN AND IF WE WANT!!!
s a member and supporter of the FFRF, I am proud of the work that they continue to do for this country. They continue to stand up for the minority, even in the face of much hate.
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof;
The supreme court has ruled, without question, that prayer in public school is unconstitutional. This dates back to Abington Township v. Schempp (1963). In the most simple terms, this means that your public high school, funded by public tax dollars and state grants, cannot endorse religion. If this was a private or catholic school, the story would be different story.
America is the catalist in getting the gospel to the world.We will persevere in His name.When our prayers continue to be silenced, will it snow ball into a country that is eventually silenced world wide.What kind of world will we be leaving for our children and grandchildren…..a world with less of the Gospel than it was when we ourselves arrived in it ? I hope not !!
@ What a Joke:
I am a Christian, but I would be willing to be respectfully quiet for others of different religious origins to pray AS LONG AS my Christian beliefs were allowed to be represented when it was my turn. I don’t believe in the other religions, but I do respect their rights to pray as well, even if I did not participate.
The primary reason that Christianity is under attack is because this is a Christian nation – it is not ruled by Muslims, Jews, Hindus or any other large religious group. In my opinion, these groups are welcome, AS LONG AS they DO NOT try to deprive me of my beliefs and rights. This is the deep South – most are Christian, if they practice religion, and that is what they majority will want to see represented most of the time.
It is not illegal for the kids to pray – I’m proud of you students for doing so! Keep up the great work!
No matter what obama says, this country IS a Christian country. It is our country. We MUST take it back. I hope the next game, parents will rush the field and peacefully join the brave students…
the organization protesting this is only 19,000 strong or should i say weak….while we americans for prayer or in the millions. if we come together we could shut them up!!!!
for the ones who think AMERICAN citizens have no right to pray…..i have a perfect solution for you….move to china, north korea or any other communist country. and ENJOY your FREEDOM when you get there !!!!!!
I’m proud of these kids. Stand up for what you believe. God Bless America!!
Ricard, If a student is Hindu, Jewish, or Muslim and they want to pray in their natural manner, I know I would be proud of them. They stood up for what they believe in just as these students stood up for what they believe in. No one has the right to take away my or anyone else’s right to assemble to pray! I am extremely proud of these students for standing up for what they believe in and I too think, at the next home game that the parents of these students and any adult that wants to, join the students on the firld and PRAY!
As long as it’s Christians praying, everyone is happy. What would the reaction be if Muslims, Buddhists or non-mainstream religion showed up?
Way to go FHS… It’s ashame they tried to take our tradition away but you stood strong and glad to call myself a Cane… GO CANES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I think if our children are not aloud to pray then we the parents should take the field and if they dont like that then they can leave they dont have to stay. if I dont like something I dont try to keep others from trying it. I just go on about my way.
Hope everyone thinks of this & everything else thats happenning to “Good Old American Values” at election time. If the president gets back in NO ONE will be able to pray, mention God or anything that has to do with Christian values or Bible. How do they think the US got to be the Nation it is if it hadn’t been founded on “In God We Trust?” Take that away & we all are doomed! WAKE UP AMERICAN CITIZENS! If we have 4 more years of what we got NO ONE will be Free! Pray for America & God Bless all those who are willing to “Stand Up For The Truth” regardless of who says what!
What in the world is wrong with people these days????? Why should someone praying for no one to get injured offend anyone. If you don’t believe, fine! But let those of us who do believe do as we wish. I’m proud of those students who stood up for what is right! Continue the good work kids & other supporters! I’ll be there standing right along side of ya! God Bless this ole world!
so proud of my grandson and others who took this stand. some may not want to stand up for CHRIST but I will say one day ” every knee shall bow”. It doesn’t say some or those who want to it says EVERY KNEE shall bow!
Romans 14:11, Philippians 2:10, Isaiah 45:23.
we as christians need to pray for them , that God will open their eyes to the truth.
may God have mercy on the USA
PRAY ON!!!
Just want the kids to know that I am very proud of them for taking a stand for what they believe in. Prayers should be in school and anywhere else. Think it would be a good thing and maybe help some people. So proud to be FHS alumni and will always stand by my school no matter what.
As a non-christian, .I am so Proud of these young people. Way to Go!
finally a group of young Americans willing to ban together and stand for something they believe in. A ray of hope for our country.
It would be great to see the parents and the supporters of these students to be on the field next week and LOUDLY say their prayer.
Blessed Be !
Wish I was there! I would come out of bleachers and go stand with the kids with my handsby my side and my head bowed in prayer and let the complainer see where I stand!
Next week come out of the bleachers and support the kids. Who paid for that footbasll field… YOU DID! No Pastor needed, although every pastor oi that town should have been down on the field, if he is worth an ounce of salt. AND yes I said HE/HIM. Bible is specific ON THAT TOPIC.
So if the students are being accused of breaking a law and this organization wants to start a fight because of this Anonymous person. Shouldn’t the students know who accused them? Tell me if I’m wrong but don’t you have another right? The right to face your accuser. Just saying.
“FREEDOM OF SPEECH” If you dont like it dont be a part of it, we are not complaning about your freedom to speek, leave ours alone. NUFF SAID TO THAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I’m okay with prayer in schools just be open to all religious groups including those others may not like as in Buddhist and Islamic faiths. We are a diverse country…let’s allow some diversity instead of bigotry.
It’s about time students with faith took a stand in what they believe in!!!! Just because some don’t believe in God the students and teachers lost the right to that freedom to pray!!!! This is America what happened to freedom of speech?????? It’s our right to be able to pray even if others don’t like it!!! just imagine if all students with faith took a stand at all the schools. PROUD of these students
What needs to happen is, ALL the parents of these kids need to join their children on the field, and lift their voices so loudly, that the p.a. system isn’t needed. Then this message needs to be sent to all students, and parents at every school to stand up for their beliefs. This is the only way to correct this problem. If you are a Christian and are willing, STAND UP.
The Freedom From Religion Foundation, along with the ACLU are tools of the Communist/Marxist movement. By the time most people realize that, it will be far too late. The hope of our country lies in those young people who are ready to take back our country. THEY are our heroes!!!
Just a thought: If the Freedom From Religion Foundation had been active when our country was founded, there would have been one of two results. #1. Those members would have been hung, or #2. They would have prevailed and we would have been singing “Hail To The Queen”.
As a Christian, we are constantly being told by the world to accept others and their beliefs while all of our rights are being stripped away. I am SO PROUD of these students at FHS. As a Flomaton graduate, I am glad to see there are some students willing to stand up for their beliefs. Way to go! Keep it up!! The person who caused the problem and was the reason the letter was written chose to remain anonymous. If you aren’t even willing to release your name to back up your complaint, you shouldn’t be allowed to complain. I’m glad these students are showing this person that they stand alone in their complaint. FHS is not ready to stop praying to the one true God!
Who does Annie Laurie Gaylor of the Freedom FROM Religion Foundation think she is? I will tell you WHAT she is- a compelete and total ignorant hypocrite- to say that it is “embarrassing” for young people living in the United States of America to stand together and express their right to freedom of Speech and of Religion.
At the same time, as Christians and so stated supporters of Freedom OF Religion, we must also be open to and tollerable of the public prayers of those of other Religions, and of those who are atheist, and those who simply do not wish to pray in public.
For me, I wouldn’t feel the need to protest if someone of another religion wanted to pray at the game. I simply would not pray along with them and probably wouldn’t even listen and I definitely would not fear their prayer- because the only God I fear is MINE.
As for the atheist- Especially you, please explain to me this: How could a prayer by a person (according to you & your beliefs) to a non existent God possibly do any harm to you???
You were not asked to, told to, or forced to pray, nor close your eyes, or to bow your head, or even to be quiet or to listen. It was only announced what was about to take place, but It was your choice- **YOUR RIGHT** to or not to take any part.
It seems to me that you are not trying to express your Freedom FROM Religion, but instead expressing how disruptive you are and what an A** you can be.
Regardless if the laws of the mortal men of this world prohibit or persecute me from praying out loud, I do not fear them nor do I doubt my God. For He will always hear my every silent prayer and comfort me and protect me from all persecuters for ever and ever.
Good job students! I say do it again and again and again. What are they are going to do, expel you from school for praying? lol..What a way to go.
These students were not banned from praying either.But I do agree it wouldn’t have made the paper if it had been Muslims doing it. As long as the prayer gets said I’m pretty sure it doesn’t matter who starts saying it.
The way the world is going these days we had better pray! I understand not teaching the bible but praying is not hurting anyone. If you don’t agree well that’s your opinion and don’t join, but as for everyone else who wants to pray i think they should be able to. REMEMBER WHEN WE HAD FREEDOM! Freedom of speech. This is what is says “For example, freedom of speech can be and often is restricted in a work place, for example: employers can restrict your right to speak in the work place about politics, about religion, about legal issues, even about Desperate Housewives. However it does not say we can’t pray it just says that it restricts from talking about religion. Praying is not necessarily talking about religion though it’s like talking to a friend, because God is a friend. Are you going to ban the children talking to each other, then why should you ban them from talking to God?
This is plum ridiculous!! Have they ever thought that maybe if there were prayer in school that maybe all these shootings and mess wouldn’t be going on!! There is good people in this world who believe in prayer and some who don’t but the thing is that there’s tons of lost kids in this world and they need prayer that they don’t get at home!! I’m sorry but if this mess keeps up my children will not attend a school that doesn’t believe in and have prayer! When we were in school we always had a moment of silence to pray and so forth! It burns me up that people don’t believe/ want prayer in schools!!
I really hate to be the bearer of sanity (sarcasm), but the Constitution of the United States of America does not say or insinuate prayer can not be held in school. It does say the following though. Amendment 1: “Congress shall make no laws respecting an establishment of religion”- I see no establishment of religion while having prayer at school or athletic events, simply citizens saying a prayer. These citizens probably aren’t all members of the same church either so again, no establishment of a religion. Amendment 1 continues with “or prohibiting the free exercise thereof”- meaning you can say a prayer when and where you want to without fear of the government stopping you. This also means that no one else can stop you either. I applaud the students for standing up for what is right, I also wish the adults (Escambia, Al School Board) had the spine that the students have. If only one person is going to complain, run them out of town. They need to “get in where they fit in”, which is not in South Alabama. If you’re going to live in the bible belt, get used to saying a prayer before every meal and especially before every football game.
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
It’s clear as American Citizens we have, freedom to exercise the religion of our choice, freedom of speech (prayer is talking to God), freedom to peaceably assemble (looked peaceful to me) This country was founded on prayer and worship to God. Whether you like it or not. You can change history books, but you can’t change history.
If same constituion that gave them the right to “petition the Government for a redress of grievances” gives us the right to pray.
Ricard…if these kids were Muslim then it wouldn’t be in the paper. BECAUSE the ACLU wouldn’t be harrassing them. Can’t think of a single time where Muslims have been banned for praying but yet they are always allowed to wear their apparrel (by the way…it doesnt offend me).
I think this case is less about Muslims and more about Atheists. Muslims have as much to lose as Christians. Atheist have nothing to lose.
I’m proud of these students standing up for what they believe in. It has bee to long that we have let people push us around with their beliefs to hinder us from ours. If they want to pray at a football game for the safety of players, coaches, refs and for safe travel for all, why can’t they? At least they are thinking of others and not just themselves. Again if the prayer bothers you that much just ask them not to pray for you while they do it. Last time I checked as a soldier in the U.S. Army we defend the Constitution of America from enemies both foreign and DOMESTIC. If I’m wrong tell me, but isn’t there and FREEDOM OF RELIGION in there? Just saying.
I agree with prayer warrior on all that they said. That is exactly what is wrong with this world, that is why there is so much evil. The devil is trying to take over and you have a few people that is trying to let this happen. Good job kids, I hope you do this for all the ballgames, don’t let the devil win. STAND UP FOR GOD AND BE HEARD. Keep up the good work and keep the prayers going before the ballgame and after. May God bless you.
Would we be just as proud or willing to endorse those kids if they were Hindu, Jewish, or Muslim?
I am so proud of these kids for taking a stand for their rights and for what they believe in..Ms.Gaylor,the freedom from religion activist needs all the prayer she can get and the local person that filed the complaint..God help both of you and all the atheist out there..if there was no God you would not exist..Hell is just as real as Heaven is and it’s gonna be a reality to the nonbelievers if they don’t get salvation..Keep doing what you are doing kids and parents..Nobody can stop the relationship you have with God.Do not let them take your freedom to pray away..this is exactly how the United States is losing our Freedom..piece by piece..if we don’t have God we don’t have anything..I would hate to know I had to walk out in this world without His protection over me and my family..that will never happen..
I bet they would not be so happy if one of the students threw down a prayer rug and faced Mecca…
Way to go Students!!!! Give the devil a black eye!!! Thank you on the behalf of all of your Christian brothers and sisters for being bold and strong in the Lord and standing up!!! We as Christians are going to HAVE to start standing up for the Lord and “fight the good fight!” We have been passive too long!
we need Christians to take a stand against the ones that agree to the devils people and do nothing thank you young people for no letting Christ down keep praying ALL CHRISTIANS STAND WITH THESE KIDS SO PROUD OF THEM,
Would we be just as proud if the kids were Muslim?
So glad to see these young people take a stand for themselves and their beliefs! Other students should take note. Do NOT sit idly by.
It is so very sad in these last and evil days when you want to take prayer out of everything…especially school….May God bless the souls that wanted to push forward and have prayer and may God have mercy on the souls that wants prayer gone……
Thank you students for taking a stand. Why should some small liberal group tell millions how to behave. God have mercy on their sorry souls and pray that one day they might see the Light.
It should be illegal for us NOT to pray…I praise GOD for a group of young people like this…lets send this story around the world
Good Job students!!!!!
Not being religious, I still see a problem with this. It shouldn’t be mandatory, but it most assuredly shouldn’t be banned altogether. I fully support prayer in ANY form although I don’t participate in it. There is such a thing as respecting other’s beliefs, and that goes for Athiests, non-religious, and Christians alike. If there are more people participating than not; just sit back, be quiet, be respectful, and wait until it’s over. End of story.
The school district just layed down….pitiful.May God have mercy on all your souls for not standing up to this absolute unconstitutional nonsense.Jesus didnt lay down..he willingly gave his life and we cant even stand up to the minority of people thats doing this nonsense?
There is more of us that are Christians and are for prayer than not.Why do we lay down and let the few tell us we cant pray ??????People are gonna have to start going to jail for this to ever change…stop complying with this nonsense!
Freedom FROM Religion??Who is forcing someone to participate in religion??I encourage the school district and students to fight back and continue to pray!Who will go to jail for Jesus..I WILL!!!When people stop giving in and giving up against this and start rebelling against this absurdity,then maybe it will stop or at least get some real national attention when the jails start overflowing everywhere with people who wanted to pray!.KEEP PRAYING!!!!Stand up for Christ and say enough of this nonsense in America!
i think people are wrong we pray for players wont get hurt in a game and the fans wont get hurt going home i w[ll lead in the prayer if i have to
I’m proud of those kids that stood up and prayed. It’s a tough world we live in and it’s getting worse. I pray for this country and I pray for our youth. Keep up the fight!!