Making your Dash Count

Congressional Stupidity and Religious Intolerance May 15, 2006

I thought the role of military chaplains was to serve our servicemen and women. I hope that they listen to their consciences while tending to the needs of military personnel of different religions. Obviously, Congress couldn't care less.

Found on: WHAT'S NEW Robert L. Park Friday, 12 May 06 Washington, DC

PRAY FOR CONGRESS: IN EVERY WAR, BOTH SIDES PRAY FOR VICTORY. Yesterday, the House passed a $513B defense authorization bill.The bill included language allowing military chaplains to pray according to the dictates of the chaplain's own conscience.

"Current rules call for nonsectarian prayers, or a moment of silence, at mandatory public gatherings. Focus on the Family, The Christian Coalition, and other evangelical Christian groups had urged the President to issue an executive order guaranteeing the right of chaplains to pray in the name of Jesus.

When Bush failed to act, Republicans on Armed Services added the provision to the defense authorization bill.

An amendment offered in committee by Rep. Steve Israel (D-NY), calling on chaplains to show "sensitivity, respect and tolerance for all faiths," was defeated on a party-line vote. Rules did not allow floor debate.

I figure it will reemerge on a bill in different form the first time a chaplain pronounces, "In the name of Allah…"

God bless the USA.