Faith

Update: Judge Bans Prayer at TX Graduation Citing ‘Irreparable Harm’

Update: Judge Bans Prayer at TX Graduation Citing Irreparable HarmEarlier this week, we reported on Americans United for Separation of Church and State’s lawsuit against Medina Valley Independent School District over the inclusion of a prayer in an upcoming graduation ceremony. Yesterday, a federal judge ruled in favor of the separatist group, stripping the school of the right to include any student-led prayer whatsoever.

The judge claimed that the individuals opposed to the prayer — a young student and his family — will “suffer irreparable harm” if prayers are uttered during the ceremony. FOX News radio has more:

A federal judge has ordered a Texas school district to prohibit public prayer at a high school graduation ceremony. Chief U.S. District Judge Fred Biery’s order against the Medina Valley Independent School District also forbids students from using specific religious words including “prayer” and “amen.”…

Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott said the school district is in the process of appealing the ruling and his office has agreed to file a brief in their support.

“Part of this goes to the very heart of the unraveling of moral values in this country,” Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott told Fox News Radio, saying the judge wanted to turn school administrators into “speech police.”

Below, WOAI-TV discusses Abbots plans to back the school district in this intriguing legal battle:


Texas AG joins fight to allow prayer at graduation by LocalNews-GrabNetworks

The valedictorian plans to fight the judge’s ruling as well. Do you think student-led prayer should be allowed during graduation ceremonies? Is the judge right or wrong on this one? Let us know where you stand.

Comments (489)

1 2 3 ... 11
  • D4nny
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:54pm

    How about the “irreparable harm” the REST of the graduating class might suffer by not being allowed a prayer?They should all just skip graduation ceremonies and have the school mail them their diplomas… cost the school some money… too bad it’d be tax money.

    Report Post » D4nny  
  • caexpat
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:53pm

    New slogan, for the left..less God more crime…and crime is one of the few growth industries
    in this country…..It makes money for the libs…..

    Report Post » caexpat  
  • Rightsofman
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:52pm

    “Irreparable harm” to the kid my aching a–. Shame on you judge

    Report Post »  
  • curtmavi38
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:52pm

    What is this judge doing forbidding prayer at a graduation, I thought we have freedom of religion,not freedom from religion. Since Obama became president,it’s been katie barr the door for satan, he is making
    it hard for christians, but I have good news Satan has already been defeated,by my Savior and Lord Jesus Christ.meh

    Report Post »  
  • Liberal_Atheist_Critical_Thinker
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:48pm

    This is a GREAT news day!

    What with 2000+ Palin emails coming out, and this?

    Awesome!

    Report Post » Liberal_Atheist_Critical_Thinker  
    • nzkiwi
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:59pm

      You might be a liberal atheist, but you are not a critcal thinker, IMHO.

      Report Post »  
    • Mateytwo Barreett
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:14pm

      LACKY (cybertwit to his “friends”)
      Not in the mood’ tonight. Tell ya what. Why don’t ya just run along and hack Weiners Twitter account . . .wait a minute, RU one of those “friends” on his CL?

      Report Post » Mateytwo Barreett  
    • Shiroi Raion
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 10:25pm

      I said the same thing earlier. This whack job is a Liberal and an Atheist, but the ideological zealot has no concept of what Critical thinking is. The only logical thing about the freak is ideological and pathological.

      Report Post » Shiroi Raion  
    • Meyvn
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 5:56am

      @nzkiwi: A very clear and accurate observation.

      Report Post » Meyvn  
    • UlyssesP
      Posted on June 4, 2011 at 1:28pm

      critical sphincter says what?

      Report Post » UlyssesP  
  • advent2
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:45pm

    Our republic is being fundamentally transformed…

    Report Post »  
  • susie4dy
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:44pm

    And you wonder why this Country is going down the toliet! How can Pray be harmful? All the evil in this world we need pray!

    Report Post » susie4dy  
  • Mihi_Parta_Tueri
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:44pm

    Unless that family is a family of devout Satanists (I’m not even entirely certain they legitimately exist), then no harm can come to ANYONE being wished well, or blessed. This is the same argument during the holidays, where we can’t say Merry Christmas anymore. Who exactly is harmed when you send good feelings and cheer someone’s way? At best they’re blessed and have a great day, and at worst, if they don’t believe, NOTHING HAPPENS. The judge, like most federal judges, and the supreme court on occasion, has overstepped his bounds on this one. Not because it’s anti-christian, which people are allowed to be, but because it abridges the right to free speech and the freedom to practice religion. I think anybody should be allowed to have a prayer before an event. If 10 religions did it, it might be lengthy, but how Holy would everybody feel then! (:

    Report Post » Mihi_Parta_Tueri  
    • Nobamazone
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:56pm

      I am certain they exist. Know a lady who used to be very involved, thank God she woke up and found Jesus, but oh the stories she can tell! Several large covens in my area.

      Report Post » Nobamazone  
    • Untameable-kate
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:04pm

      I make a point of saying merry Christmas to everyone loud and proud. Always I have gotten a smile and a merry Christmas right back. We outnumber them, we surround them and we have the right to our beliefs just as they have a right to theirs.

      Report Post » Untameable-kate  
    • TexasCommonSense
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:22pm

      Merry Christmas in advance, Untameable-kate. Glad to see you back.

      Report Post » TexasCommonSense  
  • Psychosis
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:43pm

    @ I.gaspar

    send the family AND the judge to the middle east

    Report Post » Psychosis  
  • frodis
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:43pm

    Just saying it would cause Irreparable Harm is nonsense. They should just do it regardless of what a judge says. Don’t participate if it bothers you. Just stand there and meditate. That was the word my teacher used in my elementary school class. Same thing and the libs can’t argue a moment of silence.

    Report Post » frodis  
  • fitsgibbons
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:43pm

    I see EVIL…..what a shame! I supprt having student led prayer during grad ceremony…people need to get RIGHT.

    Report Post »  
  • Rolm99
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:42pm

    A big reason our gov schools are so screwed up is they kicked God out. Get your kids out of the gov schools before it’s to late. Why would you want your kids to be subjected to liberal socialist brain washing perpetrated by union thugs?

    Report Post »  
    • Liberal_Atheist_Critical_Thinker
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:50pm

      How can your god be kicked out of anything?

      I thought he was Omnipotent?

      Report Post » Liberal_Atheist_Critical_Thinker  
    • Nobamazone
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:52pm

      Kicked God out AND taught the kids they evolved, came from nothing, end up nothing, and we wonder why things are the way they are..

      Report Post » Nobamazone  
    • BBomber66
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:19pm

      @Liberal….

      You make a valid point. God, Jehovah, is still present. It’s the believers who have been kicked out. I hope the believers return and stand up. There was something about denying Christ and the result of that position. The Christians allow other beliefs. Muslims are not so inclined. Even being an atheist will get you labeled a non-believer and, thusly, one to be eliminated. Go for it.

      Report Post » BBomber66  
    • TexasCommonSense
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:21pm

      Liberal_Atheist_Critical_Thinker, God was asked to leave our schools, and being he gentleman he is, he did. The schools have gone down hill every since. More violence, more disrespect and lower test scores compared to other nations.

      Report Post » TexasCommonSense  
    • Mateytwo Barreett
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:36pm

      HE i sn’t “kicked out” of anything! I see you’re is fine humor this evening. Hope you didn’t stay up to late! I tried to get hold of your mommy to wake you up this morning. . . I couldn’t wait anylonger. Work, yannow. I’ve noticed something strange. I don‘t see ONE of your boy’s cute little bumper stickers in the morning. Only in the afternoon- evening. Welfare offices open late. I guess it would make sense.

      Report Post » Mateytwo Barreett  
    • The Third Archon
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 1:18am

      Evolution is scientifically established fact–that‘s why it’s taught. What would you propose we teach in its place as a unifying theory of biology?

      Report Post » The Third Archon  
    • Texas Grasshopper
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 10:09am

      this is Marine singing the second half of the Star Spangled Banner ….it is relevant to the storey
      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f9_bP219ehQ

      Report Post »  
    • Texas Grasshopper
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 10:52am

      suggestion #2 for the school …Sing the Battle Hymm of the Republic !!!

      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=irZmknvOB4I&feature=related

      Report Post »  
  • kentuckypatriot
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:42pm

    The judge ruled the “ young student and his family will suffer irreparable harm” ? What about the other students and families? What about them. I don’t know about you all, but I’ve had enough, I’m ready for a fight. Who’s with me? Let’s gooooooooooooooooooo

    Report Post » kentuckypatriot  
    • fitsgibbons
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:46pm

      I hear ya…let’s get crazy.

      Report Post »  
    • Nobamazone
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:48pm

      I’m IN, now what?
      I promise if I am ever at an event where pray has been outlawed I will stand up and begin…
      Our Father…
      or if I fell it is a singing type of event..
      This Little Light of Mine
      OHHHHH, I hope I end up at one of these events!!

      Report Post » Nobamazone  
    • Mateytwo Barreett
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:06pm

      Closer than yesterday, npot as close as tomorrow.

      Report Post » Mateytwo Barreett  
    • spirited
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:09pm

      Maybe the students will break into Amazing Grace.

      >If Nothing else, as an intervention to the ‘irreparable harm’ to the student and his family.

      Report Post » spirited  
  • SlimnRanger
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:42pm

    There are ways around the Judges decision,The parents and students can walk by this family praying and God will be listening,stand up for your rights Christains,the more we cave in the more the liberals will try to take from us, when is enough ,enough?

    Report Post »  
  • UpstateNYConservative
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:41pm

    “Irreparable harm”? ~ROTFL~

    Report Post » UpstateNYConservative  
  • wordweaver
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:40pm

    This surprises me. I didn’t think Texans would stand for such nonsense.

    Report Post » wordweaver  
    • hgaut
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 7:37am

      I was thiking the same thing. I would love to see Texans practice civil disobedience and start spontaneous prayers and the valedictorian finish the speech with “may God be with you all”. I’m sure there would be cheering in the streets.

      Report Post » hgaut  
  • Nobamazone
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:40pm

    I also wonder exactly what “irreparable harm” might occur? Ears blow up? Heart might start to melt? Seriously, when an atheist tells me there is no God it does not harm to me at all, I don’t agree, but it does not HARM me!

    Report Post » Nobamazone  
  • swalt
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:40pm

    Communists don’t believe in God. Yet, they seem to be afraid of Him. The first step in getting rid of Him is outlawing prayer.

    Report Post » swalt  
    • ApokTheGreat
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 11:29pm

      The Prophet Daniel still prayed 3 times a day even when his enemies outlawed it. The king had to throw Daniel to the lions. The lions became like kittens over night. Then when the king saw that GOD saved Daniel he threw his enemies (and their entire families and pets) to the lions. Their bones never touched the ground.
      Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego wouldnt bow to the idol. The king had them thrown into the firey furnace. Three men entered the furnace, four men were in the furnace, three men exited the furnace. The flames never touched them. The king fell on his face and worshiped GOD.
      Moral: Do what GOD says to do, be faithful to GOD and HE will never leave you or forsake you and your enemies will tremble at your victory.

      Report Post » ApokTheGreat  
  • kschmud
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:39pm

    I hope those in attendance spontaneously start reciting a pryaer…like the public meeting where those in attendance started reciting the pledge of allegiance

    Report Post »  
  • Nobamazone
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:38pm

    I wonder what other words are on that list? A creative person can easily get their point across without using an “amen”

    Report Post » Nobamazone  
  • jhaydeng
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:38pm

    Where is the outrage! Wake up sleepy heads!

    Report Post »  
    • TexasCommonSense
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:16pm

      Plenty of it here. I’m tired of the Federal government imposing their agenda on my state.

      Report Post » TexasCommonSense  
    • ILUVAMERICA
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:22pm

      I meant to rely to you NOT catb
      You are right!!!!!
      This is EVERYTHING Glenn warned us about!!!!
      They’ve got US!!!!
      America is just an Illusion!!!
      Next will come the Emergency Law!!
      They Molest us and our parents and children at the air ports, train stations, proms, disney rides and everyone is OK with it!
      They are SQUEEZING the life out of us with taxes, gas, food and utility prices and they don’t have enough!! They have to borrow!!!
      They can enter our homes, phone line cell calls, computors and anything else they want to!!!
      They spit on our ALLIES and FRIENDS and Kiss the feet of our ENEMIES!!!
      NOW, They are going to make the Christian religion ILLEGAL!!!!! Will they do that before they take away our RIGHT TO BEAR ARMS???
      WE WILLLLLL SEE A CROSSES AND STATUES REMOVED!!!
      WE WILLLLLL SEE OUR RIGHTS FOR THE FREEDOM OF RELIGION MADE ILLEGAL!!!
      OBAMA MUST BE IMPEACH!!!!!!
      But Guess what?
      That is never going to happen.
      NOT ONE of OUR ELECTED OFFICIALS has the B*LLS to even suggest it.
      I CALL ON THE TEA PARTY ELECTED OFFICIALS TO FILE/PERSUE IMPEACH AGAINST “O” NOW!!!!!!!

      Report Post » ILUVAMERICA  
    • what4
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 11:22pm

      In Texas dont they say……say get the rope!

      Report Post »  
  • Untameable-kate
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:37pm

    Ah and here we are again, with the minority crapping up things for the majority. How on earth is anyone irreprarably damaged by ANYTHING they hear? What a bunch of babies.

    Report Post » Untameable-kate  
    • ApokTheGreat
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 11:21pm

      Correct Speech does not do irreparable harm in any way. In fact speech increases benefit. The more opposing views there are the more society benefits. To stop speech is the irreparable harm as it decreases societal benefit. Even the Westboro Baptist dunderheads have societal value.

      As for the state endorsing speech in this case, it has ALWAYS been the rule that the students can initiate the topic of religion and open that door to all. This judge has no clue as to the case law he just trampled on. If the students initiate the prayer on their own they are allowed. The Court ruled that the students rights do not end at the school house door. I carried my Bible to school, my youth group led flag pole prayer on school property, a few churches rent school property here on Sundays to hold services.

      Report Post » ApokTheGreat  
  • I.Gaspar
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:37pm

    send the family to Saudi Arabia.

    Report Post »  
    • canuck44
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:05pm

      No, it will be far better to shun them…when Whiny Boy walks up everyone in the place should turn their backs and whine. This should follow him wherever he goes. What employer would want a whiny, litigious, anti-social employee on their payroll. Whichever college he enrolls needs to have the word widespread on the campus. They demand tolerance, but they cannot demand acceptance.

      Report Post »  
  • Snowleopard {gallery of cat folks}
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:36pm

    Another bleeding hearted, law making, liberal socialist justice rears again to the rescue of darkness and suffering the light of the world to be extinguished once more for all to fall into the night.

    Report Post » Snowleopard {gallery of cat folks}  
    • Untameable-kate
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:38pm

      Amen.

      Report Post » Untameable-kate  
    • nzkiwi
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:49pm

      Quite right, Snow.

      I‘m an atheist and I think that this judge’s ruling is utterly moronic. How can anyone possibly suffer “irreparable harm” by hearing a prayer? Is this judge living on the same planet as we are?

      If this is his ruling on this case, then what sort of rulings does he make on others? He should be removed from the bench for gross stupidity. Either that, or for allowing his personal beliefs to unreasonably affect his decisions.

      I really do not understand American atheist’s obsession with Christianity. It cannot possibly hurt them and they leave themselves looking mean-spirited and petulant.

      Utterly beyond belief.

      Report Post »  
    • bikerr
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:02pm

      @nzkiwi–Finally an Atheist who sounds reasonable. You stand up for your convictions.(I’m not sayin I agree) but you are the first Atheist who sounds like a well adjusted person).

      Report Post »  
    • Elena2010
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:07pm

      Kiwi that is because they are not atheists. They are anti-theists. They have an axe to grind w/God who somehow failed them along the way.

      Report Post » Elena2010  
    • UpstateNYConservative
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:18pm

      @Elena2010

      Good call there. Such types seem on a mission, where they seek to destroy faith others have. Notice, too, how when ignored or mocked, their tone (and actions) start to become almost vindictive.

      Report Post » UpstateNYConservative  
    • @ Coyote2
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 10:36pm

      One day a florist goes to a barber for a haircut. After the cut he asked about his bill and the barber replies: “I’m sorry, I cannot accept money from you: I’m doing community service this week.” The florist is pleased and leaves the shop.
      The next morning when the barber goes to open his shop door there is a dozen roses waiting for him at his door. Later a cop comes in for a haircut and when he goes to pay his bill the barber says “I’m sorry, I cannot accept money from you: I’m doing community service this week.” The cop is happy and leaves the shop.
      The next morning when the barber goes to open up there is a thank you note and a dozen donuts waiting for him at his door.

      Later a Republican comes in for a haircut, and when he goes to pay his bill the barber again relies “I’m sorry, I cannot accept money from you: I’m doing community service this week.” The Republican is very happy and leaves the shop.
      The next morning when the barber goes to open his shop there is a thank you note and a dozen various books such as “How to Improve Your Business” and “Becoming More Successful”.

      Then a Democrat comes in for a haircut, and when he goes to pay the bill the barber again replies “I’m sorry, I cannot accept money from you: I’m doing community service this week.” The Democrat is happy and leaves the shop.

      The next morning when the barber goes to open his shop, there are a dozen Democrats lined up waiting for a free haircut.

      Report Post »  
    • ApokTheGreat
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 11:06pm

      @NZKIWI
      Here is my belief about why American Atheists hate Christians to the point of insanity:
      I will use light bulbs to illustrate the point. All humans are light bulbs. Even the best among us are too weak to shine. On top of that our sins act like a crust over the bulb preventing the light from getting out. This crust is ugly and grotesque and unbearable to acknowledge. GOD came down to Earth assumed human form in the man Jesus. Jesus died upon the cross. His blood washes the sin crust off of those who accept Him as savior. The removal of the crust allows our light to shine, but we are still very dim. So GOD himself sent His spirit to live in Christians. This cranks up the brightness of our light so that it shines with intensity. It illuminates the sin crust on all the other bulbs around us. The other bulbs cannot stand knowing and seeing the crust on themselves so, like darkness hides from the light, the unbelievers hide from us. To hide from us they must shut us off, they must put us in an opaque container. They can not stand the knowledge and they dont want to change either. They love their sin but they hate the knowledge of it. They could accept Jesus and shine too but they are in rebellion against God.
      Regardless if you believe in God or not, the analogy stands firm. Everyone hates the goody two shoes because the good makes the bad stand out. So what does the bad do to the goody2shoes? They bully them or trap them into being bad.

      Report Post » ApokTheGreat  
    • DYNA
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 3:04am

      @APOKTHEGREAT

      Good analogy.
      And they who chose rebellion over the redemption are of their father, the devil.

      Report Post »  
    • Wilkins
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 4:09am

      If you want to understand the intent of those who drafted and signed into law the First Amendment, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof”, all you have to do is look at how they conducted themselves afterwards. Was prayer allowed and practiced in subsequent sessions of congress or was it banned? In schools? In public meetings?

      How is banning prayer not “… prohibiting the free exercise thereof”?

      Report Post »  
    • Meyvn
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 6:51am

      @bikerr: Agreed.

      Report Post » Meyvn  
    • Opinionmonger
      Posted on June 4, 2011 at 1:28pm

      With this rulng, one can sue any schoolboard and teacher personally for NOT protecting any child against “inreparrable damage’ when they Allow ANY biblical reference to be uttered in any class or on schoolproperty.
      Sue them into Oblivion!

      Report Post » Opinionmonger  
  • CatB
    Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:35pm

    The “harm” is in not praying. Where is the “tolerance”.

    Report Post »  
    • frodis
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:40pm

      Irreparable Harm? That‘s the most pathetic thing I’ve ever heard.

      Report Post » frodis  
    • seeker9
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:45pm

      The irreparable harm comes in where one individual thinks the world should conform to their view. Could learn a little tolerance.

      Report Post » seeker9  
    • UpstateNYConservative
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:46pm

      Can anyone imagine needing to go into therapy for (gasp!) having heard a prayer?

      Report Post » UpstateNYConservative  
    • urrybr
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:48pm

      Somebody . . . call the whaaaaaaaaaambulance.

      Report Post » urrybr  
    • Robert-CA
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:48pm

      I will send that family to a NASCAR race & let them argue with the hardcore fans during the NASCAR prayer about their ‘IRREPARABLE HARM’

      Report Post » Robert-CA  
    • ramburner
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:49pm

      “Irreparable harm”? The irreparable harm will be when those who did NOT pray, and those who refused prayer end up in Hell for eternity. They will suffer irreparable harm then! The Godless nature of our society is close to that when Noah was walking among us. We are watching human nature at its worst, society shaking its fist in the face of God. Why are we seeing so many world events today, such as have never been known since the beginning of time? Tornado’s in places they have never been, tsunami’s, record deep snows, floods that can no longer claim to be 100 year events. We have been experiencing the hand of God allowing these events to happen for at least 20 years now. Still society tries to rationalize the events and snub God. When will society wake up? Read Romans 10:9-13 and DO IT.

      Report Post »  
    • Therightsofbilly
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:49pm

      Communist goal #28

      http://www.uhuh.com/nwo/communism/comgoals.htm

      Report Post » Therightsofbilly  
    • Edct
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:50pm

      Ass liberal unAmerican judge and this family of unamerican asses, and God help them if they are jews, since so many Christians are trying to fight for Israel these days, let’s hope they are not jews.

      Report Post »  
    • Hungry_i
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 8:55pm

      Would Allah‘u’Akbar! be okay?

      Report Post » Hungry_i  
    • ByrdsofMisssouri
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:02pm

      If these judges are appointed, vote those out who appoint them, if they are elected, make sure they don’t serve another term. If we do not like the rulings that are coming down, we can do something about it.

      Report Post »  
    • TexasCommonSense
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:02pm

      It would figure it’s a Federal judge. Get out of my state, you moron. The irreparable will be done to those whose rights upon whom you are infringing. The ones who won’t be allowed to pray if they choose. What part of “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof” don’t you understand. As part of the judicial branch of government, you’re supposed to enforce laws, not attempt to create them.

      Report Post » TexasCommonSense  
    • Elena2010
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:04pm

      That judge is just nuts. Send that one back to the factory for a tune-up! I have heard muslim prayers which offend me but have never harmed me.

      Report Post » Elena2010  
    • jzs
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:05pm

      I agree with you that this is stupid.

      But we’re all strict Constitutionalists here right? When government agencies (like the school system) support one religion, and deny another religion the right to honor their own Deity in their own traditional way, then you are treading on the principals our Founders wisely set forth.

      Honestly, I don’t know why anyone even cares about this stuff. But they do evidently. And when anyone does, then you have to look at the intention of the Founding Fathers, whose meaning was clear: the government is not to support a given religion in preference to another.

      Report Post » jzs  
    • D0ntTread0nMe
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:05pm

      It‘s increasing everyday isn’t it… attacks on all fronts… we better get together fellow conservatives… or before we know it, the radical left will have seized complete control over the conversation.
      http://www.mythoughtsfromthemiddle.blogspot.com

      Report Post » D0ntTread0nMe  
    • TexasCommonSense
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:06pm

      Therightsofbilly, great link. It’s astounding how many of these are being implemented.

      Report Post » TexasCommonSense  
    • ILUVAMERICA
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:10pm

      You are right!!!!!
      This is EVERYTHING Glenn warned us about!!!!
      They’ve got US!!!!
      America is just an Illusion!!!
      Next will come the Emergency Law!!
      They Molest us and our parents and children at the air ports, train stations, proms, disney rides and everyone is OK with it!
      They are SQUEEZING the life out of us with taxes, gas, food and utility prices and they don’t have enough!! They have to borrow!!!
      They can enter our homes, phone line cell calls, computors and anything else they want to!!!
      They spit on our ALLIES and FRIENDS and Kiss the feet of our ENEMIES!!!
      NOW, They are going to make the Christian religion ILLEGAL!!!!! Will they do that before they take away our RIGHT TO BEAR ARMS???
      WE WILLLLLL SEE A CROSSES AND STATUES REMOVED!!!
      WE WILLLLLL SEE OUR RIGHTS FOR THE FREEDOM OF RELIGION MADE ILLEGAL!!!
      OBAMA MUST BE IMPEACH!!!!!!
      But Guess what?
      That is never going to happen.
      NOT ONE of OUR ELECTED OFFICIALS has the B*LLS to even suggest it.
      I CALL ON THE TEA PARTY ELECTED OFFICIALS TO FILE/PERSUE IMPEACH AGAINST “O” NOW!!!!!!!

      Report Post » ILUVAMERICA  
    • TexasCommonSense
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:14pm

      JZS, students saying prayers of their own free will is not the government supporting a given religion in preference to another. They fact that they are told they can’t infringes on their first amendment rights.

      Report Post » TexasCommonSense  
    • techengineer11
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:18pm

      Unfortunately it will take another Revolution if America is to ever return to her Constitution. As I‘ve said on many occasions America today more closely resembles 1917 Red Russian than our Founding Father’s initial Gov’t. Such a disgrace..

      btw, was this a Jewish family?

      Report Post » techengineer11  
    • dwh320
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:18pm

      The students who want to pray will just stand up and do so regardless of the order from the judge. Freedom of Religion is their Constitutional right and I hope they have the courage to express it.

      Report Post » dwh320  
    • The_Almighty_Creestof
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:19pm

      And here I thought the “Lone Star” state was going to end up being the lone holdout in this idiotic PC nonsense. This is disgusting and distressing.

      Report Post »  
    • Evileye
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:31pm

      How will there poor little darling cope with life if he is this sensitive.

      Report Post »  
    • decendentof56
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:33pm

      JZS
      …“or prohibiting the free exercise thereof”.
      Get it?

      Report Post »  
    • OlefromMN
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:34pm

      How does this judge sleep at night? “Irreparable Harm”? How does one even think that way?

      Report Post » OlefromMN  
    • valricoslash
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:47pm

      What about hte “irreparible harm” to the hundreds ofother people who are offended by this ban who will be attending the ceremony. If this family dosen’t like the prayer, let them listen ot some satanic music on their Ipods. The valavictorian should write his speech around the freedom of speech and of religion and the free practice thereof. He or she should remind their fellow students of the importance of the constitution and to never lose sight of it and not be swayed by the media without checking things out for themselves. For in our personal laziness and failure to question, lies our doom.

      Congratulations to these students for achieving the first goal fotheir education. I wish them luck because, based on this judge’s rulling, they will need it.

      Report Post » valricoslash  
    • decendentof56
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:47pm

      JZS…BTW,
      Let me know when and where you find the phrase ‘separation of church and state’ in our constitution.
      I’ll be waiting.

      Report Post »  
    • nptden
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:50pm

      The ‘irreparable harm’ is to the fact one person can disrupt the wishes of a majority. They are playing the ‘Cloward-Piven’ game.

      Report Post » nptden  
    • @ Coyote2
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:51pm

      Schultz— sounds kinda kosher to me. Oh, that’s right, they hate Jesus with a passion and don’t want Him mentioned.

      Report Post »  
    • grandmaof5
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 9:52pm

      I wonder how many students and parents in the senior class would be willing to file a law suit against the student and his family for grievous harm and irreparable emotional distress for not having prayers at graduation. It is time for the majority in this country to say enough is enough.

      Report Post »  
    • banjarmon
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 10:00pm

      Remove the judge and Pray anyway!!!!!

      Report Post » banjarmon  
    • banjarmon
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 10:03pm

      I’m praying for that lost family….IT can only help!!

      Report Post » banjarmon  
    • Dustyluv
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 10:11pm

      Believe me…In Texas, they will pray if the admin has anyone with balls on the school staff. I have seen it before. They say no prayer and we say too damn bad. This judge will not go far in Texas. I am sure he will have problems down the road wheather appointed or elected….Donr mess with Texas…

      Report Post »  
    • quickstudy
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 10:16pm

      Freedom OF religion, not FROM religion. Progressivism is like an extreme form of religion that has zero tolerance.

      Report Post »  
    • TomFerrari
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 10:21pm

      Judge threatened to jail the violators if they prayed anyway…

      DEAR GOD!!!
      I know you’ll get me out of jail.
      And I cannot WAIT to see the video of the police officers ARRESTING ME playing on national news night after night, week after week for the next 2 years while this goes all the way to the SCOTUS!
      Amen

      You just TRY to stop us from praying!

      DEAR GOD!!!

      Report Post » TomFerrari  
    • skinnydipinacid
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 10:24pm

      the people in the crowd should take it upon themselves then and do what they feel is right… pray.

      Report Post » skinnydipinacid  
    • TomFerrari
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 10:27pm

      Maybe this is how a socialist democrat judge applies for a job as a Supreme Court judge under NObama. (Prove he can, and is willing, to legislate from the bench, to piss on The Constitution, etc.)

      Report Post » TomFerrari  
    • restorehope
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 10:36pm

      I say get rid of the judge by special recall. He will be doing ‘irreparable harm’ to our country by remaining on the bench and undermining constitutional freedoms in the name of political correctness. Perhaps the complaining student and family should be banned from graduation because they offend everyone else with their intolerance.

      Report Post »  
    • 101
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 10:38pm

      If it would cause him “Irreparable Harm” then he should get a doctors excuse to be exused/absent at graduation!

      Report Post »  
    • Thinkingaboutit
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 10:41pm

      I am Athiest and I think this ruling is SILLY!! The majority of people believe in God (Jehovah). What harm does it do for them to pray? When family, friends and public events have prayer, I bow my head and let them pray. I think about what I had for lunch, It doesn’t harm me to shut up for a minute.
      This kid’s parents need a punch in the mouth.

      Report Post »  
    • Therightsofbilly
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 10:42pm

      Hey JZS,

      In the other thread, you answered all my questions except the one about the VA story.
      How come?
      I still have the link if you would like it?

      +1 to TexasCommonSense and Decendentof56 for their replies to your statement.

      Report Post » Therightsofbilly  
    • JRook
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 10:43pm

      Judge is off base at best…but I’m wondering what the majority of contributors here would say if the judge banned a Muslim prayer?

      Report Post »  
    • snidley-whiplash
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 11:03pm

      Ban public education. Home school/private school. Lets reduce our taxes.

      Report Post » snidley-whiplash  
    • snidley-whiplash
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 11:05pm

      Anyone out there from texas…….you people are like yo-yos

      Report Post » snidley-whiplash  
    • ohyaok
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 11:07pm

      If it were a Muslem student praying wouldn’t be an issue.

      Report Post » ohyaok  
    • jzs
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 11:16pm

      decendentof56, I didn’t say anything about the words “separation of church and state” being in the Constitution. I talked about a “state supported religion.” But, for your edifcation I’ll post this quote of Thomas Jefferson from wiki:

      The term is an offshoot of the phrase, “wall of separation between church and state,” as written in Thomas Jefferson’s letter to the Danbury Baptists Association in 1802. The original text reads: “…I contemplate with sovereign reverence that act of the whole American people which declared that their legislature should ‘make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof,’ thus building a wall of separation between Church & State.” Jefferson reflected his frequent speaking theme that the government is not to interfere with religion.[1] The phrase was quoted by the United States Supreme Court first in 1878, and then in a series of cases starting in 1947. Like many other governing principles, the phrase “separation of church and state” itself does not appear in the United States Constitution. The First Amendment states that “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof.”

      http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Separation_of_church_and_state

      Report Post » jzs  
    • Therightsofbilly
      Posted on June 2, 2011 at 11:56pm

      @JZS

      Why did you ignore decendentof56′s first post?

      And be honest now, we all know what he meant in his second post.

      You are very adept at misdirection.

      Report Post » Therightsofbilly  
    • SonOfaCommunist
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 12:14am

      That’s how we Commies do it! Agitate, agitate, agitate…until you go crazy and act out. Then we clamp down on you! Squash that bug!

      Report Post » SonOfaCommunist  
    • mizflame98
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 12:20am

      Why is the judge not concerned with the irreparable harm done to the other students not being able to pray?

      Report Post » mizflame98  
    • silentwatcher
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 1:36am

      I’m gonna pray whenever and wherever I choose. I do often. I do not need your permission. You don’t like it??? Piss off.

      Report Post »  
    • FuturePresident
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 1:38am

      Wow, just realized this ruling eviscerates two of our constitutional rights. First of all the FREEDOM OF SPEECH, how can any American even argue that someone else cant say what they want to, regardless of what it is. Second the freedom of religion, just because you aren‘t religious doesn’t mean you have the right to stop other people from praying, regardless of where or who they are. This is very scary and will probably be used as a reference point for similar cases in the future…

      Report Post » FuturePresident  
    • PATTY HENRY
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 2:23am

      HELL has opened it’s doors; Demons are milling about; Evil is rampant. GOD is being ridiculed and then ignored…and we will all pay the price.

      I want a PRESIDENT who will take this issue on…head on. From the Bully Pulpit of the WHITE HOUSE I want a PRESIDENT who will re-educate this nation about our need for GOD and the truth about the SEPARATION of CHURCH and STATE and then I want a PRESIDENT who will go after every FEDERAL JUDGE who attempts to MAKE LAWS and kick them out. THAT PRESIDENT will be Sarah Palin.

      This election is the LAST TIME decent people will have a voice. WHATEVER HAPPENS, GOD WINS. BE with GOD.

      Report Post » PATTY HENRY  
    • jnobfan
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 2:58am

      Tolerance
      Excellent point.
      That word is always lacking in media stories about religion or conservatism but right up front in stories about perverts and creeps.
      Texas is looking better all the time folks. Low unemployment, huge new oilfields will create jobs for decades and I do look good in cowboy boots. Can we still say cowboy on a non-gay web page?

      Report Post »  
    • No1YaKnow
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 3:09am

      Seriously? Though we must accomodate Islam prayers DURING school hours. Explain that judge.

      Report Post » Marci  
    • Okie from Muskogee
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 3:33am

      @JZS

      You are right on this. Stand in truth. 

      @RightsofBilly
      Would an Islamic only inclusion prayer offend you? It would me. 

      Blazers, Constitutionalists, those of Faith, those of no faith

      The Constitution provides us the freedom to worship anything we desire, anything we believe to be God. The Constitution provides us freedom from a theocracy, the very theocracy persecution those fled to come to America. 

      A lot of our fore father did believe in Jesus, many in different aspects. There were also some who had no faith who were also allowed to express their belief. The believers and none believes reconciled over allowing all to worship something or nothing freely as well as reconciled moral law, whether belief it come from God or belief of natural law. The one stipulation of religion was it could not be forced by Government. One can shine their belief or non-belief thru words and works in Government, Government just can not direct (lead) you in faith. 

      A public (Government sponsored/operated) lead prayer is unconstitutional. A citizen praying is Constitutional. If you believe public lead school prayer is Constitutional you are granting Government power to determine God. Would any of you want a Public school led Muslim prayer? 

      Pray before you go, silently during the event, and or after. Force of belief on someone else is unconstitutional and non Biblical.

      Report Post » Okie from Muskogee  
    • Okie from Muskogee
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 4:01am

      As for the Judge’s ruling of harm, I find this ruling to be very dramatic and ignorant due to this Judge’s inability to interpret law and the Constitution. The Judge lacked the ability to correctly explain why Government shouldn’t lead religion and therefore leaned to his bias for a reasoning. 

      The ruling prohibiting students use of “prayer” and “amen” is unconstitutional as it prohibits speech and use of such words by individual students is not equivalent to public lead prayer. Use of such words is individual expression. Public lead prayer is collective expression. 

      A Constitutional Judge would have ruled simply no public school lead prayer. If a student wants to thank their God, whomever/whatever it is, individually as they walk across that’s expression of speech and religious freedom. Government, public school in this instance, is prohibited from leading the public in religion via worker or student.

      Report Post » Okie from Muskogee  
    • Meyvn
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 5:54am

      Irreparable Harm? I can show these morons the difference between “Hurt Pride” and “Irreparable Harm”. What a joke. This is a blatant disregard of the first amendment. I have seen our 1st, 2nd, 4th and 10th amendments being stamped out in several states. The 4th in my own state.

      WE MUST RISE and STOP THIS TYRANNY!!!

      Report Post » Meyvn  
    • avenger
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 6:26am

      wow..a devout liberal….

      Report Post »  
    • Bluefish49
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 7:15am

      Wouldn’t have been great if the student body took it upon themselves to pray.

      Report Post »  
    • smithclar3nc3
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 7:43am

      They should do it anyway and if sued or brought up on charges they should site freedom of speech gives them the right . Courts have gone toooooo far the law wants to be the new religion Christian,Jews,and others need to show them how wrong they are.

      Report Post »  
    • bco2rgr
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 8:12am

      Typical legislate from the bench democratic appointee.

      Report Post » bco2rgr  
    • cassandra
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 8:21am

      that man is no judge he is a communist,socialist,marxist in a robe

      Report Post »  
    • Sheepdog911
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 9:17am

      This is a locall school issue. Since when does the federal government have standing in such an issue? … Ladies and gentlemen, please bow your heads … little boy athiest and his parents, please plug your ears for the next 60 seconds so or leave so you can be spared the irreparable harm to follow. All others, here we go, Heavenly Father, …” Ignore the judge, ignore the ACLU, don’t coddle the little athiest.

      Report Post » Sheepdog911  
    • beckisnuts
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 9:27am

      Patty Henry, you will never get your demands met. Ever. The government has no business promoting religion and you know it. You have become unhinged, much as Glenn did yesterday morning when he went on a religious rant and then broke down in tears. Very troubling and evidence that Glenn needs help. You do too by the sounds of it.

      Report Post »  
    • encinom
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 9:39am

      First amendment, establishment clase, the school is an part of the State government. Please tell me one pray that is inclusive of all the christian denomination, let alone all faiths. Christian‘s can’t agree about the Lord’s Pray (whether its forgiveness for debts or tresspasses). Pray has no place in public schools.

      Report Post »  
    • AynRandLives
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 9:57am

      The Parents need to start singing God Bless America and saying the Lord’s Pray.

      Report Post » AynRandLives  
    • Texas Grasshopper
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 10:32am

      sent to the School distict
      Singing this Second Verse of the Star Spangled Banner might be a great way to Stand Up for our Texans Values concerning God, Family , Community and avoid taking a posistion thats directly confronts Federal Courts ruling

      http://republicmainstreet.wordpress.com/2010/06/10/the-star-spangled-banner-second-verse/

      O! thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand
      Between their loved home and the war’s desolation.
      Blest with vict’ry and peace, may the Heav’n rescued land
      Praise the Power that hath made and preserved us a nation!
      Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,
      And this be our motto: “In God is our trust;”
      And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave
      O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave![12]

      Report Post »  
    • Therightsofbilly
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 11:44am

      @Okie

      No Okie, it would not offend me.
      A short prayer for each group that wants to.
      Even the atheists. they of course would say nothing.

      Report Post » Therightsofbilly  
    • GerriDavid
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 11:45am

      JZS Stated: “But we’re all strict Constitutionalists here right? When government agencies (like the school system) support one religion, and deny another religion the right to honor their own Deity in their own traditional way, then you are treading on the principals our Founders wisely set forth.

      Honestly, I don’t know why anyone even cares about this stuff. But they do evidently. And when anyone does, then you have to look at the intention of the Founding Fathers, whose meaning was clear: the government is not to support a given religion in preference to another.”

      The Founding Fathers meaning was CLEARLY written: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof” Where exactly does it say that Praying is not allowed? Is the Judge NOT prohibiting the free exercise of Religion? If so, and he is, then HE is in violation of the first amendment is he not? Anyone that interprets the first amendment as you do is a MORON!

      Report Post »  
    • BJColter Country Music Iconoclast
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 11:49am

      Oh, yeah, you can wear you burka and pray to Allah, just leave Jesus out of it. PRAY, PUBLICALLY, ALWAYS! Pray over your meals, say “God Bless You” to people you see on the street, proclaim JESUS unashamedly. Here’s a song I wrote in support of this graduating class.

      http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7j_t8dHdJ-w

      Report Post » BJColter Country Music Iconoclast  
    • smithclar3nc3
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 12:52pm

      The student body should just start loudly praying when the ceremonies start to really single out that family for the ******** they are. And send them and others like them a message tolerence is a two way street.

      Report Post »  
    • VinnieCCT
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 1:17pm

      If they decide to have a moment of silence and I were a student there, I would shout out “Dear God, In you we trust. Amen.”

      Report Post »  
    • Okie from Muskogee
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 1:42pm

      @RightsOfBilly

      Really Billy? I find that hard to believe. And no, not one prayer for each religion, one Islamic prayer lead by the school, just as this would have been one Christian prayer. 

      I believe you know my beliefs from other posts and know I love Jesus. If at my child’s graduation I hear “Let’s all join together in prayer lead by so and so” and so and so gets up and starts praising Allah, I think I’d get pretty frustrated. Not that I’m a hater, I just find it disrespectful to my God. My God also tells me to respect everyone, believer or not. I will say, in such scenario, I think the crowd would freak out and it would be a little bit of comedy to say the least. 

      Hope your days good

      Report Post » Okie from Muskogee  
    • Wingnut80
      Posted on June 3, 2011 at 4:02pm

      Freedom of Religion not from Religion!

      Report Post »  
    • Darrell
      Posted on June 4, 2011 at 8:38am

      The Constitution’s Bill of Rights is a limitation on Congress, NOT Texas. It was not until the late 1940′s that FDRs appointed judges first applied the First Amendment to states. FDR was NOT a Founding Father. Thomas Jefferson WAS a Founding Father, and he spoke for intent of the Founders when he told the Danbury Baptists that they were safe from Congressional interference. Jefferson said religion was left exactly where they found it – as a State’s Rights issue.

      Keep the Federal Court out of it!

      Report Post » Darrell  
    • jeffg
      Posted on June 4, 2011 at 10:46am

      Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; It seems to me that this judge cannot read, I believe the admendment is very clear. It also seems to me that our government is establishing the religion of humanism by prohibiting the free exercise of this young persons religion, I believe in times as this it is time for peacable rebellion

      Report Post »  
    • joe conservative
      Posted on June 4, 2011 at 10:47am

      Why do people keep giving money to these groups? I wonder how much money these groups cost the American taxpayer. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_sRcbiSa0rA

      Report Post » joe conservative  
    • Opinionmonger
      Posted on June 4, 2011 at 11:38am

      A nice touch of that Judge, to make SCHOOLBOARD and subsequently the teachers, the responsible party in this whole mess.
      Now , the school must payup for any infraction, so they will be personally responsible for any damages and now we can easily fire all those union teachers too which get a conviction too,
      Can‘t have criminals teaching our kid’s and on the schoolboard , can we now …
      Fire the BUMS!

      Report Post » Opinionmonger  
    • proudkygirl
      Posted on June 4, 2011 at 2:15pm

      Every time one of them takes the stage instead of clapping everyone should shout praise the lord!

      Report Post »  
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