SOLITARY PRAYERS DON'T INFRINGE RIGHTS

                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: MONDAY, April 12, 1993                   TAG: 9304120256
SECTION: EDITORIAL                    PAGE: A9   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Short
SOLITARY PRAYERS DON'T INFRINGE RIGHTS
THE MARCH 10 letter to the editor by Jennifer Nolen opposing prayer in school was appalling to me. Not only did it malign Christianity but it lacked consideration for the First Amendment right - freedom of religion. This amendment states the right to believe and practice religion as long as there is no infringement on others' rights. Congregational prayer may trespass on those rights but solitary prayer does not violate them.
I agree that prayer cannot solely save our society. We need the help of people, religious or not, who will work for change.
Suggesting that children with Christian beliefs be sent to private schools is imposing on their right to education in public institutions. I am sure there are religious taxpayers in America whose money supports public schools, not private. The government cannot specify Christian teaching over others, so it should not be present in public schools.
I am not ashamed to admit that I am a student with Christian faith and that I pray during school. I can assure you that I will continue to do so as long as the First Amendment grants me the freedom of religion. KIM REYNOLDS NEW CASTLE

by Bhavesh Jinadra by CNB