Politics & Government

To Pray or Not to Pray at Borough Hall Ribbon Cutting? That is Council's Dilemma

Should the new Borough Hall be the subject of prayers?


Members of Phoenixville Borough Council are wrestling with the question of whether or not members of the clergy should be invited to say a prayer at the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Borough Hall.

The question came up Tuesday night during the council's discussion about a ribbon cutting event for the new building. A ribbon cutting is currently being planned to coincide with September's First Friday events on Bridge Street on September 6.

While discussing who to invite from the community, Council President Richard Kirkner said he would plan to invite some members of the local clergy.  Then he raised the question of whether clergy should be asked to offer a prayer during the ceremonies.

West Ward Councilman James Kovaleski said he could see that become a potential legal problem over questions about "the separation of church and state." It sparked a discussion among members of council over whether prayer should be allowed at an official township function.

What do you think?


Should the clergy be asked to offer prayer during the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Borough Hall?

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