Violating Someone’s ‘Religious Sensibilities’

Orginally published on Wednesday, June 08, 2005 at 11:01 AM
by Todd Rhoades

I don’t usually get too political here, but this just seems outlandish.  Two schools in Orange County have decided not to hold their graduation ceremonies at Saddleback Church because they didn’t want to violate anyone’s ‘religious sensibilities’.

The OC Register writes, " The changes came after Marc Lipoff, a senior at Northwood High in Irvine, balked at his school?s plan to once again hold its graduation ceremony at Saddleback Church. "

The anti-defamation league was also contacted during the process.  Since attendance is compulsary in Califronia, graduation ceremonies should be held in a non-sectarian venue.  So, church 'buildings' are out.

Both schools involved sent a survey out beforehand asking if anyone had a problem having the graduation at a church (as they have done in past years).  That's when Mr. Lipoff (no pun intended) made his protest known.

"We felt there was legitimacy to their concern," Superintendant Dean Waldfogel said. "We were happy to be able to move that. Our purpose, of course, was never to violate anyone?s religious sensibilities."

Lipoff said he would be uncomfortable in a Christian church setting: "I don?t feel comfortable being at a church, whether it?s graduation, or whatever it?s for. Being at a public school, I shouldn?t have to go to a church."

The main problem?  Saddleback's twenty foot cross.  The Anti Defamation League spokesman said, "All it did was confirm (our concerns)."

Saddleback's executive pastor Glen Kreun said he was "saddened" that the crosses inside the sanctuary offended some. "We won?t compromise our beliefs and change or modify our worship center because someone is offended," he said in an e-mail.

Is it just me, or is this way overboard?  Seems pretty easy these days to violate someone's religious sensibilities, doesn't it?  I'd love to hear your thoughts...

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Hi... I'm Todd Rhoades. I'm a Christ-follower, husband, father and I love to connect leaders with other leaders. Hopefully you'll find something here at MMI you like and will return often. If you want, you can find out more about me or follow my every step on Twitter.

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