Cynicide
18th February 2010, 05:24 PM
Hi everyone,
This is a hell of a first post but I just saw this in my local magazine, Heidleberg and Diamond Valley Weekly. There's no online version so I've typed it out.
Christianity rules in plans for a prayer
By Alana Schetzer
Christian ministers have made an impassioned plea to Nillimbik councillors to bring back a religious blessing - and council appears likely to answer their prayers.
At a public meeting to discuss the proposed changes to meeting procedure, pastor Paul Craig from Diamond Valley Baptist Chirch said introducing a Christian prayer would acknowledge the country's heritage.
"Our government, freedom and laws are from a Christian foundation," he said, adding that it would be a "wise thing to do." Mr Craig recognized that not all residents were Christians, but said the majority of residents were Christians and the council should reflect its constituents.
Reverend Di Nicolios, from St John's Diamond Creek, said the church was called upon by the council in times of crisis, such as Black Saturday.
"The church has a role to play in the community," she said. "It's not something that's foreign to our community."
In a draft report of proposed changes to its meeting procedures, the council has included the motion that a prayer be said by a nominated councillor at the start of its monthly meeting. Details of whether the prayer will be non-denominational or based on Christian beliefs have not been specified.
The council will vote on the issue next Tuesday, by Cr Michael Young said the argument appeared settled.
HDVW reported late last year on the proposal to reintroduce prayer, which was abolished almost five years ago. The issue drew a heated response from readers, with the majority saying there should be no prayer in council meeting.
Should Nilumbik bring back a religious blessing? Email alana.schetzer@fairfax.com.au
Paul Craig had better not open a history book, he might find out the basis for his Government, Freedom and Laws predate Christianity by a fair length of time.
This is a hell of a first post but I just saw this in my local magazine, Heidleberg and Diamond Valley Weekly. There's no online version so I've typed it out.
Christianity rules in plans for a prayer
By Alana Schetzer
Christian ministers have made an impassioned plea to Nillimbik councillors to bring back a religious blessing - and council appears likely to answer their prayers.
At a public meeting to discuss the proposed changes to meeting procedure, pastor Paul Craig from Diamond Valley Baptist Chirch said introducing a Christian prayer would acknowledge the country's heritage.
"Our government, freedom and laws are from a Christian foundation," he said, adding that it would be a "wise thing to do." Mr Craig recognized that not all residents were Christians, but said the majority of residents were Christians and the council should reflect its constituents.
Reverend Di Nicolios, from St John's Diamond Creek, said the church was called upon by the council in times of crisis, such as Black Saturday.
"The church has a role to play in the community," she said. "It's not something that's foreign to our community."
In a draft report of proposed changes to its meeting procedures, the council has included the motion that a prayer be said by a nominated councillor at the start of its monthly meeting. Details of whether the prayer will be non-denominational or based on Christian beliefs have not been specified.
The council will vote on the issue next Tuesday, by Cr Michael Young said the argument appeared settled.
HDVW reported late last year on the proposal to reintroduce prayer, which was abolished almost five years ago. The issue drew a heated response from readers, with the majority saying there should be no prayer in council meeting.
Should Nilumbik bring back a religious blessing? Email alana.schetzer@fairfax.com.au
Paul Craig had better not open a history book, he might find out the basis for his Government, Freedom and Laws predate Christianity by a fair length of time.