Deconstruction of the “Establishment Myth.” Reason prevails. The key is
to make sure that no faith (or belief system) is excluded or preferred.
TOWN OF GREECE v. GALLOWAY
Opinion by Justice Anthony Kennedy – May 5, 2014
“Ceremonial prayer is but a recognition that, since this Nation was
founded and until the present day, many Americans deem that their own
existence must be understood by precepts far beyond the authority of
government to alter or define and that willing participation in civic
affairs can be consistent with a brief acknowledgment of their belief in
a higher power, always with due respect for those who adhere to other
beliefs. The prayer in this case has a permissible ceremonial purpose.
It is not an unconstitutional establishment of religion… The town of
Greece does not violate the First Amendment by opening its meetings with
prayer that comports with our tradition and does not coerce
participation by non-adherents. The judgment of the U. S. Court of
Appeals for the Second Circuit is reversed.”
