Issues@Hand

AFA initiatives, Christian activism, news briefs

October 2015 – The detail above is from The First Prayer in Congress painted by Thompkins Matteson in 1848. Matteson most likely based his painting on descriptions of events since he was not an eyewitness. The First Prayer in Congress depicts the men including John Adams, Patrick Henry, George Washington, and others. This inspiring print is in public domain. However, a 16"x20" reproduction is available at Revival Fires Ministries along with a brief history and a copy of the prayer prayed on that occasion. Suggested donation $25; visit timtodd.org/store or call 318-396-4673.

A federal court fined Rankin County, Mississippi, School District for allowing a pastor to conduct assemblies on several campuses honoring students with high ACT scores, praying for them, and offering them Bibles.

U.S. district judge Carlton Reeves ruled against the district and banned distribution of Bibles in the district. He noted the district is a repeat offender and fined it $7,500 plus legal fees incurred by students who brought the suit.

Reeves claimed the school has attempted to indoctrinate students with Christianity, and any future infractions will be met with a $10,000 fine.

School superintendent Lynn Weathersby said despite the court’s ruling, students and teachers will continue to pray, though they will have to adjust in order to comply with the ruling.

Bryan Fischer, host of American Family Radio’s Focal Point, wrote on AFA’s blog The Stand: “It is staggeringly absurd and schizoid that a school can be found in violation of the First Amendment of the Constitution for doing exactly the same thing Congress does (opening assembly with invocation).”

gopusa.com, 7/28/15; onenewsnow.com, 7/28/15; afa.net/the-stand, 7/28/15