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New Regulations Ban Religious Proselytizing of Military Recruits

By Howard M. Friedman

Today's Virginian-Pilot reports that the Military Entrance Processing Command has issued new regulations to prevent religious proselytizing of recruits at its Military Entrance Processing Stations. The new regulations were issued after complaints that some ministries were targeting the centers-- where recruits get their physicals and are sworn in-- in an effort to identify themselves with the military. For example, one group handed out khaki covered copies of the New Testament. The new regulations still permit religious literature and publications produced by outside parties to be made available at processing stations, but the centers cannot show favoritism to any particular faith or group. No publications that create the impression of government endorsement or sponsorship are permitted. Also no proselytizing, preaching or spiritual counseling by outside parties will be permitted.

Full post as published by Religion Clause on December 27, 2008 (boomark / email).