GIVE TEENS A BREAK AND QUIT CONDEMNING GRADUATION PRAYER

To the Editor:

I am disappointed that the Southeast Missourian found the "illegal prayer" at Central High School's graduation the only newsworthy activity at the ceremony~. The high school band performed well, it was nice to have the senior choir members sing the "~Alma Mater" and many groups of students were asked to stand to be recognized for special academic accomplishments~. I also was dismayed that Rene Robinson, salutatorian, and Mandi McCoy, valedictorian, were unmentioned in Sunday's article.

As far as the students' prayer recitation being "illegal," the Supreme Court upholds the students' rights to pray. However, in Lee v. Weisman the court declared that it is unconstitutional for school officials to invite clergy to pray at commencement~. Praying never hurt anyone, it often helps many~. I say we should give these teens a break and quit condemning~ their decision to pray at their graduation!

Suzanne Smith

Cape Girardeau