06/15/2026
I am not sure if the Greenfield Recorder will print this but in case they don't here it is: I am writing to express my support for former FCTS superintendent Richard Martin, whose speech was criticized because he prayed for people who were grieving. Some claimed he violated the separation of church and state but if every session of congress opens with a prayer, then obviously a prayer offered in a public-school setting is not actually a violation. The only problem is prayer is not tolerated by the people who claim to be the most tolerant. As for the separation of church and state, it was originally meant to keep the government out of the affairs of the church, it was never meant to keep faith out of public life.
Pastor Michael Grant
Moore's Corner Church
Leverett, MA
PS: We encourage others to show their support for him and all other Christians who face persecution whether its minor or severe.
Richard Martin, Franklin County Technical School superintendent, retired early after the School Committee received complaints regarding religious remarks made during the May 28 commencement ceremony.
