That was basically an example of an atheist evangelistic rant. I don't believe in group prayer. Know what I do when people choose to pray as a group? I keep my mouth shut and respect others, only I don't bow my head. When I hear people talk about how they don't believe in God, know what I do there? I keep my mouth shut and respect others, no matter if its if a public building or not. Unfortunately, a lot of athiests these days cannot do that.
Should prayer be a required part of a school's ciruculum? Hell no. Should ANYONE be allowed to pray in school? Of course, regardless of their faith.
And why should that be offensive? Because people like to be offended.
I don't think you quite understood me. First off, it was no rant. Second, we're on the same page as far as prayer in public schools. If kids want to pray in their down time, go nuts, little dudes! Should the principle come over the intercom and do a school-wide prayer? Absolutely not. Third, I wasn't referring to anyone being offended, but going on the offensive. Like in war or sports, not the act of one getting their feelings hurt.
If I'm in a public or social setting (wedding, funeral, family reunion, company picnic, etc) and the group wants to say a prayer, I remain silent and respect their wishes to do so. If the same thing were to happen at the beginning of my daughter's class (she attends public schools), that's not okay and that does not deserve respect, as it's an offensive move intolerant towards other religious beliefs, the lack thereof, and the Constitution.