The Wisconsin-based Freedom from Religion Foundation (FFRF) has filed a lawsuit against Colorado, claiming its official ‘day of prayer’ violates the separation of church and state philosophy. But Mike Johnson, senior counsel with the Alliance Defense Fund, says separation of church and state is not part of the United States Constitution.
"Since the time of this nation's founding, public prayer has been an essential part of our heritage," the attorney contends. "In the tradition of designating an official day of prayer, it actually began with the Continental Congress in 1775, and President George Washington issued his famous National Day of Thanksgiving proclamation."
Johnson notes the U.S. Supreme Court has consistently upheld designation of prayer events -- federal, state, and local.
"Look, it doesn't matter if someone is offended by prayer," he concludes. "It doesn't mean that you can end an American tradition, and that's what all these frivolous lawsuits are all about."
Colorado's "Day of Prayer" took place this year on May 1, 2008. Approximately 70 events around the state were held in observance of the day (Source: OneNewsNow.com)