What did the Court decide about mandatory non-denominational prayer in public schools in Engel v. Vitale?

What did the Court decide about mandatory non-denominational prayer in public schools in Engel v. Vitale?

• A. Permitted in all cases
• B. Permitted if voluntary
• C. Prohibited in public schools
• D. Allowed only for graduation ceremonies

Answer: (C)

The decision centers on government promotion of religion in public schools and the Establishment Clause. Engel v. Vitale held that a daily, state-written prayer recited in public schools is unconstitutional, even though the prayer was non-denominational and voluntary in appearance. The Court explained that having the government compose and endorse a prayer in a public school amounts to official endorsement of religion, which the First Amendment forbids. Therefore, mandatory or school-sponsored prayer in public schools is not allowed.

The decision centers on government promotion of religion in public schools and the Establishment Clause. Engel v. Vitale held that a daily, state-written prayer recited in public schools is unconstitutional, even though the prayer was non-denominational and voluntary in appearance. The Court explained that having the government compose and endorse a prayer in a public school amounts to official endorsement of religion, which the First Amendment forbids. Therefore, mandatory or school-sponsored prayer in public schools is not allowed.