What would Jefferson do?
Virginia Governor Tim Kaine’s administration forced the resignation of five Virginia State Police Chaplains because they prayed publicly “in Jesus’ name.” The State Police Superintendent created, then enforced, a strict “non-sectarian” prayer policy at all public gatherings, which excluding Christian prayers. Five chaplains refused to deny Jesus or violate their conscience by watering down their prayers, and had to resign.
My question is: if the state police has chaplains, what else are they supposed to do but pray in Jesus’ name? If they are not allowed to do so, why have them at all?
Jefferson argued in favor of religious freedom. I doubt he would have approved of these firings, but perhaps he would have advocated not having the chaplains at all.
Good questions. Jefferson would also very likely be uncomfortable with the concept of “state” police and their increasing powers.
Comment by Richard Williams — October 3, 2008 @ 9:43 pm |