Those charges have been underscored by the passage recently of H. Res. 409 which praises the Roman Catholic (Parochial) school system.

It is clear that especially in the current political climate, this dispute threatens to divide both the House of Representatives and American society along sectarian lines. It is even questionable whether the post of an "official" Chaplain for the Congress is appropriate in modern society, or constitutional. The fact that this is a religious position, and is funded by $138,000 a year in money from American taxpayers (not all of whom are religious, or agree with the sectarian creed of a particular "chaplain") sends the message that it is permissible to use public funds to promote a particular faith.

There is no legitimate reason why Members of Congress need a chaplain, at public expense, on site at the U.S. Capitol.

The controversy over whether this post should be filled with a representative of the Roman Catholic or Protestant faith (or some other denomination) suggests that Congress is focused more on sectarian belief and doctrines, than on the legitimate business of the nation. Furthermore, if this post -- and the $138,000 a year in public money which is used to fund it -- is insignificant or inconsequential in the greater scheme of the federal government's business, then why is there so much divisive squabbling?

I urge you to consider taking action to abolish the position of Chaplain of the House of Representatives. In an America which is marked by increasing diversity of religious faiths and ideas concerning religion, having this position (and allowing it to be occupied by a representative of a particular religious faith) excludes tens of millions of other Americans. It marginalizes many citizens who do not have a particular religious faith, or who embrace one that is at odds with the prevailing "majority rule" sectarian beliefs reflected in the U.S. Congress.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

Cliff
Cliff Anchor Past Commander, American Legion Post #448 Sincerely, Cliff Anchor
Past Commander, American Legion post #448
Life Member, Broadcast Pioneers of America NYC
Life Charter Member, International Broadcasters Society
Honorary Deputy Sheriff, Sonoma County
Father, Grandfather and Great-Grandfather
Bush appointee to Local Board 10 Selective Service
Life Member, National Military Intelligence Officers Association
Past President (2 terms) Chamber of Commerce
etc.
Cliff Anchor