The Freedom From Religion Foundation is contesting blatantly unconstitutional conduct by a judge in Montgomery County, Texas.
After FFRF was alerted that Justice of the Peace Wayne Mack was opening court sessions illegally with Christian prayer, FFRF Staff Attorney Sam Grover sent him a letter of complaint Sept. 18.
According to a local complainant present in August in Mack's court, the judge stated: “We are going to say a prayer. If any of you are offended by that, you can leave into the hallway and your case will not be affected.” Mack then introduced a minister who read from the bible at length before those in attendance were asked to bow their heads and pray.
Grover cited relevant court cases while noting, "Your courtroom prayer practice does not promote public confidence or create the appearance of impartiality."
FFRF, a nationwide state-church watchdog with more than 21,000 members and 900 in Texas, is also filing a complaint with the State Commission on Judicial Conduct in Austin.
While Mack didn't formally respond to FFRF as requested, he instead has scheduled a "full buffet prayer breakfast" Oct. 23 at a Conroe convention center. At that time, he says in an Oct. 10 email, "I will be addressing [FFRF's] demand." He tells "Pastors & People of Faith" that "I need your help to take a stand."
FFRF objects to judge's courtroom behavior - Freedom From Religion Foundation
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