[yvonne]

Fullmetal,

That is correct.  It is a matter of respect.  

Technically, the issue has to do with only the four-letter name of G-d.  It\'s never pronounced; even when reading the Torah, another word is substituted.  In fact, one polite way to the deity is HaShem, literally, "the name."  There\'s no requirement to omit the vowel in English.  It\'s just a carry-over to show respect.

Some people take avoiding the Name even further, substituting other consonants while saying other Hebrew names of G-d except when used in prayer.

[yvonne]

Fullmetal,

That is correct.  It is a matter of respect.  

Technically, the issue has to do with only the four-letter name of G-d.  It\'s never pronounced; even when reading the Torah, another word is substituted.  In fact, one polite way to the deity is HaShem, literally, "the name."  There\'s no requirement to omit the vowel in English.  It\'s just a carry-over to show respect.

Some people take avoiding the Name even further, substituting other consonants while saying other Hebrew names of G-d except when used in prayer.