Arguing about Inaugural Prayers!

I'm posting a link to an article by Jennifer Garza, a reporter for the Sacramento Bee, concerning the inaugural prayers debate, in large part because she quotes me! Yes, in looking for information on Sharon Watkins, Jennifer Garza found my postings about Sharon and called me for an interview. My comments, which are brief, are found in the context of the debate over the choices of Rick Warren and Gene Robinson. Each has upset a different constituency, and of course Michael Newdow, famous for challenging the use of "In God We Trust" is suing to rid the inauguration of any prayers.

As I've mentioned earlier, I really don't care that much either way, but hey if you're going to do it then try to be inclusive. This time around there is some inclusivity, but within the context of Protestant divisions. I'm assuming that at the Prayer Service on Wednesday there will be greater diversity. That said, if you're going to choose someone to preach, Sharon Watkins is a great way to go!

So, here's what I'm quoted as saying and a link to the article.

The Rev. Sharon Watkins, president and general minister of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), will be the first woman selected to deliver the sermon at the national prayer service held on the day after the inauguration.

Watkins has not spoken out about gay marriage, and her denomination allows individual churches to set their own rules regarding the issue, said the Rev. Bob Cornwall, a pastor who writes the blog "Ponderings on a Faith Journey." The Protestant denomination that Watkins leads has fewer than 700,000 members.

"We're ecstatic to have a leader of our small denomination play this big role," said Cornwall. "I think her message will be to unify, and that will be the theme of the day."

And I say, amen to that -- let's get together in unity!