National Day of Prayer

The National Day of Prayer is tomorrow, but at @BJContheHill, we don’t think the government should tell us if or when to pray.

Holly and I discussed this on the Respecting Religion #podcast. https://t.co/V61mO4KYW5 pic.twitter.com/oXomtjLiP9

— Amanda Tyler (@AmandaTylerBJC) May 4, 2023

The organization advances old-fashioned Baptist separation of church and state principles. Such principles (and the First Amendment) counsel against Congress setting aside a specific day as a "national day of prayer," which is a certain type of religious activity.  One that Jesus reportedly counseled is a private act, not one to be done publicly.  Including national legislation.  

It is appreciated that proclamations these days (especially by Democratic presidents) are more inclusive:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 4, 2023, as a National Day of Prayer. I call upon the citizens of our Nation to give thanks, in accordance with their own faith and conscience, for our many freedoms and blessings, and I invite all people of faith to join me in asking for God’s continued guidance, mercy, and protection.

You shouldn't have "authority" to "call upon" citizens (why just citizens?) to make religious decisions.  The last part ("God's") is his own sentiments. Which is fine.  Biden can himself promote religious freedom and suggest people do this (such as after a tragedy). This is an official act carrying out national legislation.  It is a form of "establishment" of religion.

Today is also Star Wars Day ("May the Fourth Be With You") .. is it also National Pun Day?  A lot of religious-laden stuff there too.