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Scene removable, meaning is lasting, 12/28

By LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Published December 28, 2006

Re: Religious display is inappropriate, letter by Brad Messick Dec. 22, and Objection sends nativity scene inside, story Dec. 23

The little plastic figures of a father, mother and baby on the lawn at Safety Harbor City Hall represent a story that is heartwarming, even to those who think it is a legend or a myth. It tells of a creator, God, who comes quietly into his world to show his people how very much he loves them.

People on their way to find loving gifts, cheerful music and other ways to share love and happiness of the season look at the little family and smile. Brad Messick doesn't smile. He doesn't approve. He feels this little family has no business being there, so he calls City Hall and informs them they are breaking the law.

He's wrong, you know. Nowhere in the U.S. Constitution do we find the words, "separation of church and state."

The little family doesn't mind being banished. They are happy living in the hearts of those who believe.

But, oh, I hope someone encounters Mr. Messick and gives him a taste of the love and forgiveness that makes those around him so happy, cheerful and giving, especially at Christmas.

Anne McKay Garris, Clearwater

Churches should promote meaning

The letter to the editor and your article on removal of the nativity scene from the lawn of Safety Harbor City Hall made me realize Christians should do more to promote the real meaning of Christmas.

In less than 10 miles, I passed 11 Christian churches and not one of them had a nativity scene for public display.

It seems to me that churches that worship Jesus Christ should take advantage of their locations to remind people that Christmas is his birthday.

John Miller, Oldsmar

Honor Jesus like MLK, presidents

Why do people object to history being observed?

Do we not display and celebrate our famous men of history?

In January, we have fabulous parades and activities honoring Martin Luther King Jr. In February, we honor our great and glorious presidents Washington and Lincoln. I could go on with every month of the year honoring some great humanitarian.

What is so different about Jesus, the Christ who many see as a great humanitarian to the poor and needy? We Gentiles see him as our savior. However, in either case, he is a man of history - a great man of history who deserves recognition of his birth on Dec. 25.

Why not display his coming? Did he not make it possible for the coming of our other great men of history?

As for separation of church and state, Mr. Messick, let me remind you that the U.S. Congress begins its initial meeting every year with an invocation.

Midge Moynihan, Clearwater

Scramble 'Santa' and you get 'Satan'

I've had enough of whining people who have nothing better to do than say they don't like angels on a Christmas tree at my former workplace or that they are offended because a wonderful nativity scene is on government property.

Well, I'm offended by your Santa Claus, too. If you change the letters around in Santa, you get Satan. How's that?

Who in the world do you think made you, anyway? God did. And who do you think gave us his son, Jesus Christ, to die on a cross for us and become the savior of the world so we could go to heaven? God did.

So when you die and stand before God, he will either be your savior or your judge.

Ann Whisher, Oldsmar

During season, show tolerance

I read with great sadness of the removal of the nativity scene from the grounds of the Safety Harbor City Hall.

The complaint that religious displays "belong at houses of worship and at private homes, not on government property" is troubling.

For goodness' sake, look at the world around us. Let's not waste our energy on who shows what religious exhibit on what property. What's the harm?

Acceptance and open-mindedness are values we should all strive for. During this time of religious celebration, let's show more tolerance for, and understanding of, each other's beliefs and values.

Joyce Capaldo, Clearwater

[Last modified December 27, 2006, 21:17:52]