Jesus Banned in the Indiana House of Representatives
Indiana Voice for the Family
Protecting Family Rights and Values
with Informed Truth!
November 30, 2005
Indiana House of Representatives 1905
In a country where we have been blessed with freedom, many wonder how this dark day in the State of Indiana could have snuck in upon us? November 30th, 2005,US District Judge David F. Hamilton ordered the Indiana Speaker of the House, Brian Bosma and the Indiana State Legislature to instruct all clergy and individuals addressing the House not to invoke the name of Jesus Christ or make any other "denominational appeal." Judge Hamilton ruled that using the name of Jesus Christ is unconstitutional under the First Amendment. (Full text of ruling) The lawsuit was brought by the Indiana Civil Liberties Union. Since the founding of our state, Legislators have had the freedom to pray however they felt, according to their beliefs. This first amendment right is now in the hands of a 3 judge panel. Indiana MUST stand up and defend this right!
Statement from Speaker Brian C. Bosma
"I am shocked and dismayed by the Court's decision today. I find the Court's unprecedented decision disturbing in that it directs me, as Speaker, to advise people that they are prohibited from using "Christ's name or title or any other denominational appeal" when offering the invocation in the Indiana House of Representatives. It is intolerable that a court in this free society would ask a person to censor the prayer they offer in the tradition of their faith. The prayers that have been offered in the Indiana House of Representatives have represented many faiths of both our members and our citizens. The prayers that have been offered have not attempted to proselytize, advance or disparage any faith or belief. In my years of service in the Indiana General Assembly, I have always appreciated the diversity and sincerity with which the invited clerics and members have led us in the invocation. The ruling today forbids invited ministers and members to continue to exercise their right to free speech and pray in the tradition of their faith."
Nearly One year later, on September 7th, 2006, Speaker Bosma presented remarks to the 7th circuit Court of Appeals. ( See his remarks) The three judges of the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals who heard the case are expected to make a decision in the next several months. Then Indiana House Speaker Brian C. Bosma or the American Civil Liberties Union of Indiana can request that the case be heard by all 12 members of the appeals court or go directly to the U.S. Supreme Court.
