Monday Forum: Haley is free to call us to prayer

The Rev. Neal Jones accuses Gov. Nikki Haley of crossing the wall of separation between church and state (“Haley crossed line in calling Christians to day of prayer,” May 18). My read of the Constitution finds no mention of a wall. Instead, I find this:: “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise therof.”

Gov. Haley did not exclude Rev. Jones’ participation, nor is she trying to establish a religion. He received an invitation. I expect Gov. Haley invited her religiously diverse family to attend. I believe that the real issue is not the Constitution or Gov. Haley’s so-called “crossing the line,” but the Rev. Jones’ political aspirations — unless, of course, he proves me wrong and writes his next column highlighting how President Barack Obama crossed the line by attending the National Prayer Breakfast.

Politicians should not park their religious faith on the sidelines or quit praying when they are elected. If Gov. Haley wants to bring all people together to pray, let us pray.

Columbia