The newly revitalized Canton Interfaith Clergy Association is hosting the first in a series of forums on the intersection of faith and culture.  The first forum, entitled “The Rights and Limits of Public Prayer,” will be held on March 10 at 4:00 PM at the Congregational Church of Canton.  Public prayer raises many issues, including constitutionality, cultural sensitivity, and the rights of those in the minority (namely, those without any religious affiliation).

Members of the Canton Interfaith Clergy Association will comprise a panel presenting various views on the topic.  This will be followed by an open discussion among any and all attendees.  Father Thomas S. Rafferty, the Pastor of Saints John and Gerard in Canton, states, “While the First Amendment prohibits the establishment of a state religion, it also states that Congress shall pass no law, ‘Prohibiting the free exercise thereof.’  Our society’s challenge is balancing these two perspectives.”

The Rev. Roger C. Peltier, the Pastor of the First Parish of Canton, states, “The separation of Church and State is important, but so is the need for communal, spiritual practices, especially in times of crisis.”

Rafferty and Peltier will be joined by Rabbi David G. Winship of Temple Beth David, Rabbi David Grossman of Temple B’nai Tikvah, and The Rev. Dr. John Tamilio III of the Congregational Church of Canton.  Refreshments will be served following the forum.