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From: nlt@duke.UUCP (N. Tinkham)
Newsgroups: net.religion
Subject: Re: Re: A non-sectarian prayer; a problem
Message-ID: <4142@duke.UUCP>
Date: Tue, 3-Apr-84 18:30:50 EST
Article-I.D.: duke.4142
Posted: Tue Apr  3 18:30:50 1984
Date-Received: Thu, 5-Apr-84 03:14:22 EST
Organization: Duke University
Lines: 34

<*>

   Toby Robison quotes a recently suggested non-sectarian prayer:

      "For what we are about to receive, may we be truly grateful."

and asks:  "Do you find this prayer satisfying, or would you strongly prefer
an appropriate prayer prescribed by your religion?"

   In reply, no, I do not find this prayer "satisfying", mainly because
it does not appear to me to be a prayer at all.  The prayer is not addressed
to a deity of any sort; it is, rather, addressed to the people who are
about to eat.  True, a nice sentiment is expressed; further, I'll admit
that, given the expected diversity among an "average" group of dinner
guests, such a "prayer" is probably the strongest statement that can be
made without offending someone.  But it seems odd to substitute a short
speech for a prayer.

   So what would I suggest in its place?  It's impossible, I think, to
pray without "dragging religion into it", and if we are seriously concerned
about not risking offending any atheists, then the prayer could simply
be omitted.  Many Christians will simply offer brief, silent prayers
before eating in such situations.  On the other hand, if we can assume
tolerance and understanding from our non-theistic friends [:-)], then
the prayer Toby mentioned,

      "Blessed be the Lord, G-d of the Universe, at whose word everything
      has come into existence"

seems quite appropriate.


                                             N. Tinkham
                                             duke!nlt