Bush asked to overturn prayer rules

WASHINGTON, Oct. 20 (UPI) -- A group of conservative Congressional representatives have asked President Bush to order the military to allow denominational prayer.

In a letter to the president, the legislators suggested new Pentagon guidelines are mainly aimed at Christians. They were issued after a scandal at the Air Force Academy involving proselytizing by evangelical Christians, the Capitol Hill newspaper, The Hill, reported.

"We are disappointed and gravely concerned to learn that the Christian military chaplains are under direct attack and that their right to pray according to their faith is in jeopardy," the letter says.

Rep. Walter Jones, R-N.C., initiated the letter and has gathered signatures from 32 representatives and senators. Most are Republicans, but Rep. Mike McIntyre, D-N.C., has also signed along with several of his Republican colleagues on the Armed Services Committee.

The letter argues requiring non-sectarian prayer interferes with military chaplains' First Amendment right to free speech and freedom of religion. The guidelines suggest that prayer should not be a part of routine meetings but can be used for special occasions, including military ceremonies.