Church-state watchdog group warns against school sponsored field trip to "Just for Jesus" event
A public school in Louisiana would violate the U.S. Constitution if it allows a school-sponsored field trip to a Christian event called “Just for Jesus,” according to Americans United for Separation of Church and State.
At its next meeting on Jan. 27, the Ouachita Parish School Board will discuss whether the district should allow students to take this field trip and provide transportation to the event.
“Just for Jesus” is described by local media as a “prayer and praise crusade for students in grades 4-12” and is clearly proselytizing in nature. In the past, the event featured Christian music, skits dramatizing the effect of being saved and sermons from local preachers.
In a letter sent today to the school’s superintendent and board, Americans United advised the school district not to approve the field trip.
“A public school has no business transporting students to an evangelistic event,” said the Rev. Barry W. Lynn, Americans United executive director. “Ouachita school officials should stick to offering education in secular subjects and stop meddling in the religious lives of students.” ...full press release