Here we go again...  In what would surely be a surprise to the Founding Fathers who gave us our Constitution, a federal judge in Wisconsin has ruled that the National Day of Prayer is "unconstitutional".

Officially, the day has been recognized by the federal government since 1952 when it was established by Congress.  And each year, on the 1st Thursday in May, Presidents have issued a National Day of Prayer proclamation encouraging Americans to pray.  So how did we end up with this court ruling?  The usual; more atheists.  In this case, the Freedom From Religion Foundation, complaining that it violates the separation of church and state.

In her decision, the judge stated:

"It goes beyond mere 'acknowledgment' of religion because its sole purpose is to encourage all citizens to engage in prayer, an inherently religious exercise that serves no secular function in this context,"... "In this instance, the government has taken sides on a matter that must be left to individual conscience."

And more business as usual: it was a Democrat appointed judge that made the ruling.  In this case, it's Carter appointee Judge Barbara Crabb - which should serve as a reminder of the importance of elections to everyone.  Especially as we're now looking at the second Supreme Court appointment by Barack Obama.  (Any guesses on how his picks might rule on such a case?) 

Given the fact that this latest ruling is sure to be appealed all the way to the US Supreme Court, it adds an extra bit of importance to the upcoming confirmation hearings for whomever Obama may nominate to fill the upcoming vacancy.  (And, of course, the nominee will almost certainly decline to answer any questions about their feelings on the case).

It is interesting however, that the Judge sought to soft-pedal the decision, saying her ruling that it shouldn't bar any National Day of Prayer until all the appeals are exhausted, (ie, the Supreme Court rules).  It's interesting because the next National Day of Prayer is in May...and having it not take place would shine an even brighter light on the issue as we head into election season.

Again, we can't help but point out how this in no way whatsoever resembles anything like what the people who wrote and ratified our Constitution actually thought it meant when they put it in place.  And they would know.