Is praying a human rights violation? Our Canadian Supreme Court thinks so.

I have another question for the Supreme Court. As a person of faith, “Is NOT being allowed to pray also a human rights violation? Is this atheist’s right to NOT hear a prayer more important than my right to pray?

Since time began people all over the world have struggled to gain the right to pray publically without interference. In our country today we fight to maintain our right to freedom of expression. Somewhere along the line we have lost sight of the fact that freedom of expression applies to people of faith as well as people who have no faith.

Maybe the problem arises from fear of the power of prayer.  Over my life time I have learned that the power of prayer is real and effective. Consulting with God makes a difference for me and for the group.

One thing I know for sure. No law in our land can keep anyone from praying silently. Taking away the right to all outward signs of prayer, cannot take away our ability to pray or the effectiveness of prayer.

Try arriving early for your meeting. Sit in each chair around the meeting table. Pray individually for each group member (including the atheist) and for guidance for the group as a whole. If for some reason you cannot arrive early, practice your prayer at home. I have personally experienced the peace, the wisdom, the harmony that such a prayer ritual can produce.

Even with this Supreme Court Ruling, gov’t leaders can begin meetings with a time of silence, leaving members free to pray, or make a grocery list. The world can drive us quietly underground as we pray, but the world cannot keep us from praying. For that I am truly grateful.

“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.” Ephesians 6:18