Posted on 10/24/2005 12:58:37 PM PDT by WestTexasWend
Lawmakers yesterday said Christian chaplains throughout the branches of the military are being restricted in how they can pray, and President Bush should step in to protect religious freedom.
(snip)
(Rep. Walter B. Jones, North Carolina Republican) is circulating a letter to send to Mr. Bush explaining that Christian military chaplains are being told to use general terms when they pray publicly, and to not mention the name of Jesus.
"This is a huge issue with many of the chaplains in the military," said Mr. Jones, whose letter has 35 lawmakers' signatures so far, and will be sent later this week.
He cited a letter from one Army chaplain who said it was made clear in his chaplain training course that it is offensive and against Army policy to publicly pray in the name of Jesus, and he later was rebuked for doing so.
"Much to my great shame, there have been times when I did not pray in my Savior's name," the chaplain wrote.
Mr. Jones cited similar complaints from the Marine Corps and Navy.
(snip)
There has been much focus recently on proposed Air Force guidelines that some say unfairly would restrict Air Force chaplains' prayers, but lawmakers yesterday said the problem extends beyond that branch.
"We're seeing the same pattern ... and it's a pattern of hostility to freedom of speech," said Rep. Todd Akin, Missouri Republican. "The chaplains have complained, and it's been increasing and more widespread and not only limited to the Air Force."
(snip)
"It's astonishing to me that we're even having this conversation," said Rep. Trent Franks, Arizona Republican. "I hope the president will respond. I think he will."
(Excerpt) Read more at washingtontimes.com ...
/john
/john
The chaplains shouldn't wait for some politician to rescue them, Jesus already did that. All they need now is the b@!!s to preach the gospel 'in season and out of season', (whether popular or not). That kind of faith in the face of oppression is the only thing that will bring Christianity back to the surface in America.
ooah - from a former artillery officer, retired Army chaplain Vietnam vet!
oops, the "h" sticks - Hooah!
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