Isn't it a bit arrogant of our legislators to enter into the sacred realm of religion by deciding they will have prayer in public meetings? This means the government is in supreme control of a religious ritual.

It is not the duty of our civil government to impose a religious act of worship on the public at large. Prayers are the private sentiments each American should decide for himself or herself.

I believe as Roger Williams did: Forced religion stinks in Gods nostrils.

Freedom of religion can never service if the majority can use the machinery of the state to spread its beliefs. The majority simply doesn't rule in matters of faith.

Let us all settle for a "moment of reflection" before our public meetings. That way we will prevent both faith and government from constantly antagonizing each other and get on with the business at hand.

--Nancy Moore
Published in the Salt Lake Tribune Public Forum
May 25, 1992