S 1419 Concurrent Resolution, By Alexander and J.V. Smith
 A CONCURRENT RESOLUTION EXPRESSING THE SINCERE BELIEF OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY
 THAT THE USE OF PRAYER IN PUBLIC EDUCATIONAL SETTINGS AND AT SCHOOL-RELATED
 EVENTS IS AN APPROPRIATE ACTION THAT SHOULD BE PROMOTED AND ENCOURAGED WHEN
 SUCH PRAYER COMPLIES WITH CONSTITUTIONAL REQUIREMENTS.

   05/31/00  Senate Introduced, adopted, sent to House SJ-14
   05/31/00  House  Introduced HJ-79
   05/31/00  House  Referred to Committee on Education and Public
                     Works HJ-79

EXPRESSING THE SINCERE BELIEF OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY THAT THE USE OF PRAYER IN PUBLIC EDUCATIONAL SETTINGS AND AT SCHOOL-RELATED EVENTS IS AN APPROPRIATE ACTION THAT SHOULD BE PROMOTED AND ENCOURAGED WHEN SUCH PRAYER COMPLIES WITH CONSTITUTIONAL REQUIREMENTS.

Whereas, the General Assembly is distressed to learn of individuals recommending the removal of prayer from public educational settings and events when such prayer complies with constitutional requirements; and

Whereas, this country, our nation, and our State was founded upon the strength of Judeo-Christian values, religious freedom, and Christian heritage; and

Whereas, the early settlers of our country fled England to escape religious persecution and to seek a land in which religious freedom is valued and guaranteed to all; and

Whereas, the proper use of prayer in public educational settings, including the primary, secondary, and college levels, is an integral part of the educational process in developing strength of character and high moral values and in promoting the development of responsible citizens; and

Whereas, the use of prayer at appropriate sporting events, school assemblies, and other educational gatherings serves to help unify individuals for a greater purpose. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the Senate, the House of Representatives concurring:

That the members of the South Carolina General Assembly, by this resolution, express the belief that the use of prayer in public educational settings and at school-related events is an appropriate action that should be promoted and encouraged when such prayer complies with constitutional requirements.

Be it further resolved that a copy of this resolution be forwarded to the Department of Education and the Commission on Higher Education.