Answer in a paragraph

1. John is called to testify in his uncle's murder trial. John is a member of the Natural Alliance, a church group that believes in Mother Nature as the omnipotent being. They do not believe in God per se. When called to the witness stand, the judge asks John if he promises to tell the truth, so help him God. John refuses to answer due to his religious beliefs. The judge then refuses to permit John to testify on the ground that he will not swear an oath. John's attorney objects. Is John's attorney right? If so, what should the judge have done differently