Rebuttal

As Associated Student Body president of Newport Harbor High School, I do

not have the power to change the school’s curriculum, institute prayer,

nor force Bible reading upon the student body. Even given the chance, I

would not do so (Mailbag, “School not a place for promoting

Christianity,” Aug. 19; Educationally Speaking, “The reasons for

separating church and state are clear,” Aug. 23)

I am vocal about my faith, but the following are the only ways in which I

am allowed to promote a Christian atmosphere on campus -- by talking

about my beliefs and ideals when individually interacting with my peers

and, more importantly, backing them up with my actions. This is what I’ve

set out to do throughout my whole high school career.

Sometimes in history, Christians have not been the best examples of

loving God and loving their neighbors as themselves. Yet I will try to

promote kindness and make the days better for those around me. My

intentions are to benefit the school, and I think it’s important not to

use my position to preach at my fellow students.

High school is an arena of hormones, emotions, trials and tough

decisions. I’m simply trying to make it enjoyable. That’s why I’ve tried

to inject some humor into the sports announcements and worn spandex at

the pep rallies.

I was also misquoted in an earlier article in the Daily Pilot, saying

that I planned to use my position as a bully pulpit from which to preach

the Christian religion to my peers (“Leading the way,” Aug. 14). This

would be beyond the boundaries of good discretion. I will only promote my

beliefs by trying to be a good citizen on my campus.

I hope that I have explained my intentions and assured you that I will

not venture into the realm of joining church with state. History has

proven that it doesn’t work. Nor do I think it is right.

I am excited about my senior year, and I hope that I can make a positive

effect through the relationships that will be built, whether those around

me share my beliefs or not. If there are further concerns, I would hope

that you, Rhoda Friedman and Gay Geiser-Sandoval, as well as others would

come voice them to me at school. Come and pull me out of class. A chat

would be welcomed.

BRADLEY LANSDELL CRAIG

Associated Student Body President

Newport Harbor High School