Business Case Studies & Business Publications

Praying for Prosperity

Wicks, Andrew C., ...

Case

Praying for Prosperity

Wicks, Andrew C.; Mead, Jenny

E-0366 | Published January 17, 2012 | 2 pages Case

Collection: Darden School of Business

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Nick Stryker, Harrisburg city councillor, is disturbed by the mayor's suggestion that the city government should convene a three-day "praying and fasting" meeting, which a contingent of religious leaders would attend. Harrisburg is in dire financial shape and on the edge of bankruptcy. While Stryker does attend an Episcopal church and thinks religion has its place in one's life, he is uncomfortable with the mayor's suggested course of action and is not sure what action to take.

What are the boundaries around what is allowable and not allowable in expressions of spirituality/religion? What right does a company (or government office) have to interject spiritual or religious overtones into a business and, conversely, what rights do employees have to express their own spirituality or religious beliefs? Are there any rights or duties at stake?