The On Faith Section of the Washingtonpost.com asks a question that underscores the increasing diversity and pluralism of our culture:
Should the presidential inauguration ceremony include prayers by clergy? Should President-elect Obama say “so help me God” at the end of his oath of office? Should Chief Justice John Roberts ask him to?
A number of panelists weigh in on the question. Bill Tully the Rector of St. Bart’s in New York believes we have entered a moment in our cultural and national history where we need a conversation about the eitquette of religion in public. I appreciated this story in his response:
I love the story told by a colleague who was invited to pray at a city council meeting, and told, too, to abide by complicated guidelines against “sectarian” prayer and a number of other perceived potential offenses. He stood at the podium, reminded the councilors of their guidelines and said simply, “I’ve already prayed for you and for the business that you have to conduct. My congregation regularly prays for you and other elected leaders that you might be given the wisdom and courage to pursue justice, peace, and the welfare of those you are elected to serve.”
Then, turning to leave, he quickly added, “Thanks. Good to be with you. And blessings on your work.”
Not a bad model. Will we hear something like it this weekend?
Read his entire response here, and the main page with other panelists here.
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Did you see the Christianity Today summary of the religious references in President Obama’s inaugural address:
http://blog.christianitytoday.com/ctpolitics/2009/01/from_obamas_ina.html
It was interesting to see the Chief Justice sort of ask him at the end of the oath: So help you God? – and Obama’s strong response: So help me God!