The Interfaith Alliance sent a letter to Army Secretary John McHugh, in response to the news that Fort Bragg hosted a major evangelical Christian concert last week. Welton Gaddy asks the Secretary to investigate the incident and prevent similar events from occurring in the future. Here's a snippet:
By organizing such concerts or similar events of this magnitude, military chaplains run the risk of appearing to seek to proselytize, even if that wasn’t their goal. … A military’s chaplain’s role is to provide for the spiritual needs of any and all members of the military who seek out such services, not to in any way push any particular religion on anyone else.
I understand and respect Fort Bragg Chaplain Col. David Hillis’ desire to meet the spiritual needs of the soldiers at his base, but through initiating or widely publicizing “Rock the Fort,” he did not appear to consider the impact on those whom he serves who do not identify themselves as Evangelical Christians. None of the brave, selfless men and women who have dedicated themselves to serve our country should be put in a position where they are made to feel inferior or an outsider because of their religious beliefs, or lack thereof.
As usual, Rev. Gaddy is right. And while I don't know the specifics of the event, or Fort Bragg's policy regarding hosting community events – all important details – appearances are important, as is the very key constitutional principle that no American should have to choose between proudly proclaiming their faith on one hand, and being an equal citizen on the other hand. It's not just a matter of protecting feelings; it's about preserving the rights of all Americans, and assuring that when the government acts, it does so not on behalf of, or to promote, a particular religious viewpoint.
