The long-debated subject over what constitutes separation of church and state returned to San Pablo City Council on Monday with the narrow passage of a National Day of Prayer proclamation.
The City Council voted 3-2 to pass a proclamation (draft of proclamation below) recognizing the National Day of Prayer, an annual observance held on the first Thursday of May.
Councilmember Rita Xavier voted against the proclamation presented to council, saying that it quotes the Bible, which she says is not inclusive of all residents. “Not every religion follows the Bible,” she said.
Councilmember Patricia Ponce cast the other “no” vote, saying that although she’s a Catholic who believes in God, she also believes in the separation of the state and religion.