Issue date: 3/16/07 Section: Pro Con

Media Credit: Julian Lim

Separation of church and state has never been a black and white issue---nor entirely enforced. Our government issues a monetary system referencing religion, stating "In God we trust," while politicians end speeches with "God Bless America."
Religion certainly comforts many---not excluding myself. The faith a person follows plays a central role in the manner in which they lead their life. People's beliefs and opinions concerning the existence, nature and worship of a deity or deities shape their view of the world and themselves. How one processes ideas, what we hold to be true, values we carry, attitudes we live by, customs we follow even what we wear, may very well be religion influenced.
In short, a person's belief system translates to their way of life. Adhering to a strongly held set of beliefs and devotion to one's takes lots of effort. For some faiths, this means attending church every Sunday morning or praying at a specific hour each day---even while at school.
Josh Paul, Associated Students of Las Positas College (ASLPC) President, recently said, "I've had a number of students say to me 'Look, I'm very devout to my religion, I currently pray in my car and I would like a better solution.' I feel obligated to give that to them."
However, we must not forget that Las Positas College is a public school. Funding---no matter what account---must cater to the needs of the entire student body and faculty.
Teachers always need more supplies, classrooms improved equipment---or simply any equipment for that matter---and students need more parking, to say the very least. A decent graduation ceremony wouldn't hurt either. A prayer building has no place on a public school campus when students could attend private religious affiliated institutions to fit what they want. You can't attend a public college and expect the personal attention of a she she private school.
However, have faith for a solution may be near. Talks of a botanical garden may soon blossom into a campus garden retreat. "We're in the very preliminary stages, committees are going to form, but I don't know that much yet," said Paul.
An early proposal suggested the Las Postias oasis could double as a prayer space. It's intention will be to provide students a place for relaxation, meditation, study etc. It would be an escape to the everyday pressures of school. Amen.

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