NDR Event

Remarks by
Edd Doerr
Americans for Religious Liberty

As president of Americans for Religious Liberty I think it is entirely appropriate that we celebrate a National Day of Reason, particularly because it contrasts with the government proclaimed National Day of Prayer. Whereas the government-sanctioned sectarianism inherent in the National Day of Prayer is unduly exclusionary, celebrating reason is universal. All religious and non-religious people recognize the value of reason.

Let it be understood at the outset that I have nothing against anyone praying, or against religious organizations sponsoring a moment of prayer, a day of prayer, or a week of prayer.

As one who appreciates our country's astonishing religious diversity, I am reminded that James Madison, the primary architect of our Constitution and Bill of Rights, believed that diversity is essential to the maintenance of freedom and democracy.

As a long time advocate and activist for religious freedom and our constitutional heritage of separation of church and state, I think it is highly objectionable for any level of government to even suggest that citizens pray or fast on any day, at any time. Religious Americans particularly should be offended by government intrusions into the area of religion. It is insulting for government even to consider that the state is more competent to sponsor prayer or worship than are the home, church, synagogue, mosque, or temple.

We are reminded of Benjamin Franklin's wise words: "When a religion is good, I conceive it will support itself; and when it does not do so, and God does not choose to do so, so that its adherents are obliged to call for the help of the civil power, 'tis a sign, I apprehend, of its being a bad one."

All Americans of whatever religious background should be offended that when government—Caesar—does choose to meddle with religion, that it chooses which variety of religious expression is to have government backing, in this case, prayer. That action by government discriminates against such other religious activities as doing good works, donating to charity, studying the literature of one's tradition, helping the poor, visiting the sick, being a good parent, being a responsible citizen. Caesar has neither the qualifications nor the authority to make religious decisions for anyone, especially when it already does such an inadequate job with what it is elected and charged with doing.

Reason is neutral. It is often celebrated by religion, even when the conclusions of reasoning differ widely.

Is there not a biblical injunction to reason together?

Finally, I think the words of the great poet Kahlil Gibran fit very well here: "Let passion fill your sails, but let reason be your rudder."