By URIAH KISER
DUMFRIES, Va. — The Dumfries Town Council sparred Tuesday night over putting Jesus Christ back into their meetings.
Councilman Jerry Foreman wants to amend a resolution passed in 2010 that bars anyone from stating Jesus Christ, or “in Jesus name we pray” during the invocations prior to each public council meeting. Foreman asked the council to review the language in the resolution, and asked both the town attorney and manager to review the legality of an ordinance that also states any “recognizably Christian” prayer is not allowed. The terms God, providence, heaven, and creator have always been permitted by the nearly two-year-old resolution.
“By amending this language the resolution stays non-denominational. It’s doesn’t specifically call one religious leader or one religion out,” said Foreman.
He added the 2010 resolution was passed after the U.S. Supreme Court addressed prayers said during public meetings.
But with some members of the town council — including Foreman and the mayor — up for reelection on May 1, some called Foreman’s request politically motivated.
“This is a very difficult thing. Nobody wants to go to hell over this. I mean, you deny Christ you go to hell if you’re a Christian. It’s a personal conflict as well as a governmental issue…I’m not sure it needs to be addressed tonight when we have an election coming up in two weeks,” said Councilwoman Dorothea Barr.
Councilwoman Michele Jurgensen asked the council to delay voting on the item until after the election.
“When I was elected I put my hand on the bible to uphold the constitution, I did not put my hand on the constitution to uphold the bible,” said Jurgensen.
Foreman countered, saying local religious leaders have asked to be involved in invocations delivered at town council meetings and said that work should begin now to review the resolution prior to the seating of the new town council on July 1.
In the end, the council voted unanimously to create a committee to review the ordinance and make needed changes as needed. Interim Mayor Nancy West, Foreman, Town Manager Daniel Taber, and Town Attorney Christine Sanders are all slated to serve on the committee.
Recent Stories
During its November 18 meeting, the Manassas City Council agreed to initiate the process for a council pay raise.
Police arrested two individuals, including one juvenile, in connection to an attempted armed robbery at a McDonald’s in Woodbridge on September 24. A third suspect remains wanted.Â
Ezzedin Baryoh was sentenced to nearly 70 years in prison after being found guilty by a Prince William County jury following an April 2023 shooting in Triangle. According to a…
Upcoming weekend events: See our list and post yours to our community calendar so that we may share it with our readers!
Travel to French soil and celebrate with us for an unforgettable evening of delicious food, wine and music.
What better way to celebrate the end of the 2024 wine harvest in style than at the Embassy of France at DC’s only official celebration?
This is the Wine Event Of The Year!
Are you feeling overwhelmed by current events, family responsibilities, or the demands of work? If stress, anxiety, or emotional exhaustion are weighing you down, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to face it alone. At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand that life’s challenges can sometimes feel insurmountable, and we’re here to help.
We offer in person and virtual appointments. Our in person office is located in Kingstowne Virginia.
Our team offers compassionate support and practical tools tailored to help you navigate life’s complexities with greater ease and confidence. Whether you’re struggling with personal issues, managing family stress, or dealing with professional pressures, we are committed to helping you find peace and clarity.
Sing a Song of Christmas!!!
Join the New Dominion Choraliers for an impressive and exciting concert celebrating the Brightest and Best of the season. Along with the Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra, the chorus opens the program opens with Vivaldi’s Gloria, a joyful hymn of praise