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Starting a business meeting with a prayer?

by ampineda1955, Performer

  • Created: April 20, 2009, 2:10 pm
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4 comments

My wife owns a small assisted living facility in California and she holds monthly meetings with the staff.  She would like to know if there are any federal of state laws or rules addressing the issue of starting these meetings with a prayer?  

Tags: Discuss Popular Topics, Other Business Issues
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primeelite | Window Shopper | 4/20/2009 - 6:03 pm

Not unless the business is federally owned, received money from the state, etc. I don't see anything wrong with it unless someone complains or feels alienated by the prayer.
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CharlotteW | Former Moderator | 4/21/2009 - 9:30 am

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) recently updated the Compliance Manual Section 12 - Religious Discrimination. According to the EEOC, it is considered religious harassment when employees are (1) required or coerced to abandon, alter, or adopt a religiouspractice as a condition of employment or (2) subjected to unwelcome statements or conduct that is based onreligion and is so severe or pervasive that the individual beingharassed reasonably finds the work environment to be hostile orabusive, and there is a basis for holding the employer liable. Your wife's employees should definitely be informed they are not required by their job to pray and are even permitted to wait outside without fear of punishment or judgement if they don't feel comfortable. Message Edited by CharlotteW on 04-21-2009 09:31 AM

entrepreneur | Window Shopper | 4/21/2009 - 8:48 pm

Legally speaking, I don't know. Personally speaking, I believe that it's a smart move. God is sovereign and He is the Big Boss so I'll include Him in business meetings.
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luckycharmz336 | Creator | 4/23/2009 - 6:08 pm

I think it is great you guys do that. Unfortunately anyone can file a lawsuit about anything, which isn't always fair and can cost you money in defense. I am not sure of the legalities in California. You may want to contact a California Lawyer or Attorney for advice. Joel Mclaughlin Lawyer search engine optimization services Message Edited by CharlotteW on 06-30-2009 02:47 PM