Pastor’s opening prayer draws interruption after denouncing 'homosexual lifestyle'

A guest minister’s invocation at the Utah State Senate on Feb. 28 prompted an on-floor interruption after the speaker criticized what he called the “homosexual lifestyle.” Pastor Jim Schadler of the Metro Fellowship Assembly of God delivered the prayer before the roll call and, in language some senators later signaled was out of order, called for lawmakers to “stand up for what is moral, good, and decent.”

Schadler said the school board’s recent handling of gay and lesbian student organizations had eroded moral standards and argued the state “cannot choose the truthful stand of condemning all immoral . . . practices without the fear of national public opinion.” During the invocation an unidentified voice from the chamber interrupted with, “You’re out of order,” and other members urged the pastor to keep only the prayer requests brief.

The presiding officer allowed the prayer to conclude; Schadler closed with “In Jesus’ name. Amen.” The interruption was brief and no formal disciplinary action followed. The Senate proceeded to scheduled business, including roll call and committee reports.

Why it matters: The exchange drew attention because it occurred at the opening of a legislative day and included pointed language about a protected class. Senate proceedings include invocations as a customary practice, but when an invocation contains explicit political or value-laden language it can create immediate floor friction and public scrutiny. The episode was contained to the opening minutes of the session and did not change the day’s agenda, which moved on to journal reports and multiple bill actions.