This rebirth of Christian values has not be limited to our schools. Church membership is growing by leaps and bounds nationwide and Cape Girardeau is no exception.

At least 10 churches either have new buildings on the drawing board or under construction. Many other churches report an upswing in attendance.

What's the reason for the boom? One minister succinctly observed there is a spiritual hunger today that churches are nourishing. Baby boomers are returning to churches in growing numbers.

In turn, parochial schools -- where prayer is allowed -- are also flourishing.

No longer is it seen as passe to live in the nation's Bible Belt. This spiritual rebirth can only help strengthen the foundation of faith on which this country was built.