by Jorge Gomez • 3 minutes
We’re living in one of the most pivotal moments in American history. You may not realize it, but there’s an incredible shift happening right now. We’re at the genesis of the greatest comeback and the biggest positive change for religious freedom in more than a generation.
Because of multiple landmark victories First Liberty has secured at the U.S. Supreme Court, we now have more religious liberty in America than we had in the past 50 years!
The law is changing to be more favorable toward religious expression, and one area where we’re witnessing incredible momentum is in our nation’s schools. Students, teachers, coaches, administrators and parents have renewed protections and a tremendous opportunity to restore faith and religious expression in their schools and communities.
The Supreme Court’s protection of religious liberty is making waves of impact across the country. Just look at a recent win we secured for a student in New York who wanted to live out his faith. Eight grader Elijah Nelson got a special Christmas gift this past December when his school approved his Bible club after initially telling him no.
It’s so inspiring to hear the stories of young students like Elijah—and countless more—who aren’t afraid to take a stand for their faith. And of course, First Liberty will continue to be there to provide them with legal help if they encounter opposition.
But it’s not just students and everyday Americans who are pushing back and standing up for the right to express their faith. Our elected leaders across the country are also fighting to pass religious liberty bills all across the country.
Over a dozen states are considering bills that would allow the Ten Commandments, In God We Trust displays and Bible readings to return to public schools. Many states are also considering volunteer chaplaincy programs and release time Bible education programs to support our students.
There’s no denying it. The tide is beginning to turn. Gone are the days when the law forced students to hide their faith. You know what this means? It means students of all faiths—including our children and grandchildren—have more freedom than ever to boldly express their beliefs at school!
Want to learn more about the history and tradition of prayer in schools? Watch this First Liberty Live! episode with our friend Tim Barton of WallBuilders:
Take the Challenge: Start a Prayer Club at Your School
In March, our Restoring Faith in America FaithBlazer Challenge is to start prayer clubs at local schools.
We’re encouraging students to fearlessly live out their faith by meeting with their peers to pray together and encourage one another.
Parents and other members of the community can also talk to student leaders at schools to encourage and assist them in starting formal or informal prayer gatherings clubs outside of class hours.
We have partnered with some incredible organizations who are supporting and educating students, teachers and administrators of their rights when it comes to prayer at school and providing helpful resources to use on campuses so please check them out!
Want to take the next steps and get involved in the FaithBlazer Challenge? Here are a few things you can do to get started:
If you plan to organize or participate in the FaithBlazer “Prayer Club in School” Challenge, we strongly encourage to contact us via email RFIA@firstliberty.org for guidance. We can help you create your plan to restore faith in your community!
As a First Liberty supporter, you share in all of the landmark victories that removed barriers and precedents against religious freedom. But those hard-fought wins will only make a difference when we go forth and boldly live out our faith.
God is opening doors for everyone to express our faith and protect freedom, and it is up to us to walk through them. It’s time to go on offense!