Court-martialed chaplain declares victory
Congressional panel directs Navy to rescind policy barring 'sectarian' prayers
 
Posted: September 30, 2006

 Navy chaplain court-martialed for wearing his uniform during a public event in which he prayed in Jesus' name is declaring victory after a congressional conference committee agreed on a compromise rescinding a Navy policy that barred "sectarian" prayers.
"This is a tremendous victory for religious liberty," said Lt. Gordon James Klingenschmitt in an interview with WND. "Chaplains are free again to pray in Jesus name."

The conferees, working out differences between House and Senate versions of the Defense Appropriation Act, are directing the secretary of the Navy to rescind a Feb. 21 directive titled "Religious Ministry within the Department of the Navy" and a similar Air Force policy enacted Feb. 9.

The Navy policy stated: "Religious elements for a command function, absent extraordinary circumstances, should be non-sectarian in nature."

A command function is an official Navy event outside the traditional chapel or worship-service setting. By punishing him, the chaplain contended, the Navy stretched its "command function" requirement to every public event at which a chaplain wears his or her uniform.

But the move by Congress yesterday, on a bill expected to pass, will provide the basis to overturn his court-martial conviction, Klingenschmitt believes.

FULL STORY at

http://www.worldnetdaily.com/news/article.asp?ARTICLE_ID=52227