An atheist group’s attempt to stop a Georgia high school football coach from conducting a moment of prayer before games ended with God taking home the win.
A complaint by the out-of-state Freedom from Religion Foundation leveled a complaint against East Coweta, Georgia, football Coach John Small. The filing aimed at deterring his prayer leadership before games. The prayer sessions were strictly optional for players and the mostly Christian team participated openly.
Although he disagreed, Coach Small adhered to Georgia law that prohibits staff members from engaging in religious practices while on the clock. But the atheists’ objectives were undone when the high schoolers stepped up their game, backed their coach and Christianity.
Instead of protesting like so many around the nation, the team unified behind Coach Small and their religious convictions. Rather than continue their usual prayer session, they led the entire stadium in prayer before the game. More than 400 students worshipped as well as friends and family members.
The humble and unassuming Coach Small has been thrust into a national platform to carry the Word of God. In an interview, Coach Small said that the issue is much larger than a single coach or a single high school. He says, “We’re in a spiritual battle. It’s not against flesh and blood, but there is a spiritual battle going on in our world today. And, our kids know that the power of prayer is needed. They stood up for what they believe in.”
