A while back I  helped a friend do her pre-op check in at our local city hospital.  When we approached the check in counter where you give ID and answer pre-op questions I noticed there was a bible at each station, and I thought that’s odd? This is a hospital not a church! It got worse from there.  As we sat there answering questions and going over paperwork a voice came over the loud speaker and began to preach a sermon. The check in lady said every day at certain times they offer the good word over the loud speaker. As we were walking to another section of the hospital/church I saw a group of people in a hallway holding hands and speaking aloud in an apparent prayer circle. I thought, am I on Candid Camera? Is this an episode of the Twilight Zone? WTF!!??  I couldn’t wait to get out of there. I was horrified.  A hospital is a public space that serves the public when they are in need of medical attention.  It is not a church! I did not know that religious organizations could run a hospital, but apparently they can. That in and of itself I have no problem with, but when their patients are trapped and subjected to the views of said hospital/church, and forced to hear sermons when seeking medical care, that is clearly crossing the line. I am fortunate enough to have the option to go to another near by city’s hospital for medical care. Believe me, I will not set foot in that church/hospital ever again!  I wonder though how many rural places have had their medical facilities taken over by religious organizations and do not have such options? Our country was founded on freedom of religion, and freedom from religion.  I happen to be Atheist, but even if I subscribed to a religion that was not christianity, it would still make me uncomfortable to be preached to while seeking medical care.  I felt as though if you did not subscribe to the dogma they were preaching you might not receive the best care at their facility.  What if you happen to be Muslim, or Pagan, gay or transgender for instance?  I guess when they can’t get people to come to their church and buy into what they’re selling they’ve sunk to the level of preying on possible converts (unsuspecting citizens) when they are at their most vulnerable. I was outraged then and did my best to forget about it, but recently I keep seeing ads for this local church/hospital and my anger is renewed.  Perhaps this will be the fire I need to start my first petition?  Anyway, it being Nano Poblano, it is if nothing less, fodder for a new blog post.  Climbing off soap box now. Nano Poblano post #3 done!  Cheers Team Tiny Peppers!