Apology Follows Christian-Themed Assembly

[Eugene]

Apology Follows Christian-Themed Assembly


Thursday October 27, 2005 6:16 PM

NEWARK, Del. (AP) - The principal of a public high school apologized
to parents for allowing a Christian-themed assembly that featured two
pro football players, saying he was misled about what the presentation
would cover.

Newark High School Principal Emmanuel Caulk wrote in a letter that he
expected the talk by Philadelphia Eagles players Tra Thomas and Thomas
Tapeh to focus on "values, choices and challenges that adolescents
face in today's society."

He said promotional material used the name "Tra Thomas Promotional
Tour," and that he did not know Thomas was founder and spokesman for
Athletes United for Christ.

A projection of that organization's logo was shown throughout
Tuesday's assembly, and the athletes urged students to attend an
upcoming rally and concert at a Philadelphia-area Christian center.

<snip>

More: http://www.guardian.co.uk/worldlatest/story/0,1280,-5374078,00.html

[Maat]

1. This just shows how lines are being blurred.

This presenter put the principal in the position of breaking the law - for the school (the government) was sponsoring religion then and there.

The key issue for me is if this presenter, Thomas, knew that he was doing so, or if this is what accidentally and inevitably happens when the government starts using faith-based organizations and their officials.

In this case, I think that it is the latter case. When we gives grants to faith-based organizations, who have not formed a secular arm that agrees to function as a secular organization obeying the rules, and when we avail ourselves of their services or the services of their officials, we inevitably court trouble.

[Zenlitened]

2. More likely it was a lie of omission

Thomas said he assumed everyone knew his promotional tour was connected to his organization but that he has heard similar complaints after speaking at other public schools.

Deception is very much part of the fundies' m.o.

[Maat]

3. It SURE is.

Sometimes the sin of omission is worse than the sin of outright lying (or more dangerous anyway).