A group of Milford students came together on Sept. 23 to show what they believe in in front of the school. These Christian students prayed around the flagpole as a part of the “See you at the Pole Day” day, which is part of a national day of celebration for Christians who want to publicly express their faith.

“We each prayed for the students and staff and prayed for a good school year,”said Milford Junior Rachel O’Rourke. “We also had doughnuts afterward!”

Students took part in the event as a way to unite in prayer.

“My goal is to show people that I am not afraid to share my faith,” said Milford Sophomore Jayne Bailey.  

Christian leaders in the community feel that the prayers for Milford High School and its students help set the tone for a great year.

¨I would say that I really believe in the power of prayer- it’s very powerful when students pray for the school with classmates,¨ said youth leader Brian Saunders.

According to ABC News, 5 out of 6 Americans say that they are Christian. However, many students feel it is very hard to express their faith in school. Some students even think that it is against the law to pray and show their faith, though it is actually not. Students who prayed at the pole said they feel that school and religion should go hand in hand. School relates to religion and that it is more beneficial to have those two things together.

Here is what students should know about their religious rights at school, accoreding to the ACLU ( www.aclu-tn.org)

A school official is not allowed to pray in class or have school assemblies that promote one religion. However, a student is allowed to practice his or her religion as long as it does not interfere with others. The prayer around the flag pole is considered an individual right due to the Free Exercise Clause of The First Amendment. A school can not promote or advertise this event and it can not ask parents if their children are allowed to attend. 

Saunders said he hopes students will pray outside of church routinely.

¨My goal is for students to learn the importance of prayer and experience prayer with people from other churches. Also to give opportunities for students to stand for their faith.¨ said Saunders.

Saunders also mentioned that back when Highland Middle School was open, a couple of students prayed around the flagpole for a whole entire year.