KTRE.com | Lufkin and Nacogdoches, Texas Gov. Rick Perry's Christian-only 'Prayer Day' raises concerns

Gov. Rick Perry's Christian-only 'Prayer Day' raises concerns

HOUSTON (AP) - A Jewish civil rights group concerned about Texas Gov. Rick Perry's Christian-only day of prayer in Houston next month is responding with an educational event on First Amendment religious freedoms.

The Anti-Defamation League has called Perry's evangelical Christian prayer rally "misguided and inappropriate," saying it blurs the lines between the separation of church and state and leaves out many Texans who come from diverse religious and cultural backgrounds. Martin B. Cominsky, the group's regional director, says the governor's message is divisive and a "union between government and religion is harmful to both."

To explain why, the Anti-Defamation League says it is organizing a free "community briefing" Tuesday night at Houston's Jewish Community Center that is open to the public.

Houston attorney David Furlow will offer historical and legal insights. A Jewish civil rights group is holding an educational event on First Amendment religious freedom next month in Houston in response to Governor Rick Perry's day of prayer.

The Anti-Defamation League says Perry's evangelical Christian prayer rally is "misguided and inappropriate," because it blurs the lines between the separation of church and state.

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(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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