AUGUSTA, Ga. - A veterans' hospital in east Georgia is taking a stricter stance on its policy of banning Christmas carolers from singing certain songs in patient areas.

The Augusta Chronicle reports that the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center last week prevented a group of high school students from singing some songs to veterans at the Augusta facility.

The students from Augusta's Alleluia Community School were prevented from singing traditional holiday songs such as "Silent Night" and "O Come All Ye Faithful."

Hospital spokesman Brian Rothwell said in a statement that military service members represent people of all faiths. He said that VA rules on "spiritual care" are in place out of respect for every faith.

Alleluia Community School Principal Dan Funsch said he was saddened to learn of the hospital's decision.