Whereas, The United Methodist Church has understood this to mean that government must be neutral in matters of religion and may not show preference of one religion over others, for religion in general or for religion over non- religion; and
Whereas, The United Methodist Church has continued to affirm the position that government may not engage in, sponsor, supervise, aid or lend its authority to religious expression or religious observance;
Therefore, be it resolved, that the 1996 General Conference, meeting in Denver, Colorado, reaffirm its historic position and oppose any government legislation or Constitutional amendment that would change our existing First Amendment rights with regard to the use of public funds to support non- public elementary and secondary schools where religion is taught, or with regard to religious observances in public schools.
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
Petition Text: 20359-CS-NonDis-O
1996 United Methodist General Conference