In Theory:

CNN reported last month that two Florida school administrators face contempt charges and possible prison time for saying a prayer at a school luncheon. They face a non-jury trial Sept. 17. Do you believe authorities went too far in filing contempt charges against these two men for saying a prayer at a school luncheon? Or should these men be “taught a lesson” on the separation of church and state by giving them jail time?

There are two distinct issues here: One is legal, and the other concerns freedom of speech.

I believe Christians need to be wise. If there is a strict court order given to us in our place of employment, we should follow that and keep our personal beliefs to ourselves. The Bible is clear that, “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established” (Romans 13:1). Verse 2 goes on to discuss the possible punishment that can come from not obeying earthly authority.

However, we have to view this case uniquely. The ACLU is not endorsing charges. They state that neither man “willfully violated any orders of the court.” Glenn Katon, director of the Religious Freedom Project for the ACLU, said they are not trying to go after these men, but they do want school employees to obey the court order. This seems fitting and just. I understand that the majority of their audience was adult; however, students were present.

Then there is the issue of freedom of speech.

Can this case be fought from this point of view? Absolutely, that angle can be taken, but what about with a court order? It seems unwise for Christians to make trouble at work when they are free to worship and proselytize in other areas. If a court order was not in place, I think prayer would have been fine.

Should these two men serve prison time? I think not.

Should a lesson be taught on the division of church and state? I believe so.

KIMBERLIE ZAKARIAN

Counselor at La Vie Counseling Center Pasadena

I think it’s time for wise people — of all faiths and no faith — to sit down and reason together about how the separation of church and state applies in school settings.