An atheist from Alabama delivered the first non-religious invocation at Huntsville’s city council meeting on September 25. Kelly McCauley, who serves as a board member for North Alabama Free Thought Association, began his invocation with the phrase “Dearly beloved” and discussed the values that are essential for good governance of a productive and peaceful society.

“Let doubt and skepticism and inquiry be on our lookout when caution is the appropriate course. But also let innovation and boldness take point when opportunities for excellence appear on our horizon,” he said.

McCauley also cited the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, which was written by Thomas Jefferson, before ending his invocation with the phrase “Let it be so.”

The final decision about invocations at city council meetings in Alabama are made by the Interfaith Mission Service and the requirement of an invocation is for it to reflect the religious diversity of the community.

“The city council wants an invocation as a way to set their intention to work for the greater good. Huntsville is a very diverse city, and while Christianity is by far the largest, there are many other faith traditions, and the city council wanted to let the voices of other faith and thought traditions be heard,” said Jeannie Robison, executive director, Interfaith Mission Service.

In January this year, a Wiccan high priest had been asked to deliver the invocation for Huntsville’s city council meeting. He was scheduled to deliver another invocation in June this year but Interfaith Mission Service withdrew their offer after facing opposition from the public. The organization however clarified that the high priest continues to feature on their list of people who will be asked to deliver invocations in the future.

Photo Credit: Huntsville, AL