CHURCH - STATE ISSUES: THE BIG BUGABOO

  The first amendment of the US Constitution states: "congress shall make no laws respecting an establishment of religion . . ." That same amendment also states that "congress shall make no law . . .. prohibiting the free exercise thereof . . ."

IMPLICATIONS

Over the years some specific issues have been addressed and precedents have been established:

1. Religious Preference Cards:
   The university can participate in the gathering of religious preference information as long as the response is identified as voluntary and university funds do not pay for it.

    

2. Scheduling Space for religious meetings:
   It is appropriate for state universities to schedule public rooms for religious purposes as long as those making the request are part of a recognized student organization and/or are among campus ministry personnel recognized by the university.

    

3. Religious Studies:
   Courses in religious studies can be taught at the university as long as they are part of an academic discipline taught as a body of knowledge and culture and not taught for purposes of faith, piety, and proselytization.

    

4. Publicity on campus:
   Announcements about university activities can be posted on university bulletin boards and in university publications as long as they are part of the effort of a recognized student organization and cleared through the appropriate university office.

    

  (From To Love Out Academic Neighbors: A Campus Ministry Handbook. Chicago: Department for Campus Ministry Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, 1997)