Despite ruling, prayer recited at graduation [View All]

Despite ruling, prayer recited at graduation

May 20, 2006

RUSSELL SPRINGS, Ky. – A federal judge blocked a southern Kentucky high school yesterday from including prayers in its graduation ceremony, prompting students to begin reciting the Lord's Prayer during the opening remarks. About 200 students interrupted the principal's comments with the prayer, drawing thunderous applause and a standing ovation from the crowd.

Earlier in the day, a judge banned prayers from the ceremony in response to a lawsuit filed this week by the American Civil Liberties Union. The lawsuit sought a restraining order on behalf of an unidentified student at Russell County High School in Russell Springs, 90 miles south of Louisville.

Later in the ceremony, senior Megan Chapman told the crowd that God had guided her since childhood. She was interrupted repeatedly by cheering as she urged her classmates to trust in God as they go through life. Superintendent Scott Pierce said he was pleased with the students' response to the ruling.

The U.S. Supreme Court has held that clergy-led prayer in public school graduations and sporting events is prohibited.

Associated Press


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