AP Analysis: Religion ever present at Miss. Capitol

Analysis: Religion ever present at Miss. Capitol

Spend any time in the Mississippi Capitol and there’s a good chance someone will pray for you and your kin, as well as for the governor, the legislators and other state leaders.

There’s no shortage of religious expression in the seat of state government.

When legislators are in session, they begin each day with an invocation, often made in the name of Jesus. Prayers in the House and Senate usually are given by an in-state Christian clergy person. Occasionally, a rabbi is invited to give a blessing. Sometimes the lawmakers themselves lead the prayer.

Lawmakers frequently cite Scripture during debates on issues ranging from marriage to the death penalty.

AP
1/20/12