I’ve
noticed, living back in Southern Illinois, that many of the public holiday
displays have a religious theme, which I find appropriate. But if any of the
governmental bodies were forced to include displays with a satanic theme---I
dare say----they would rather just do without.
I believe
that is what should happen at our state capitol, inside the rotunda in
Springfield, where governmental officials have allowed a display by The Satanic
Temple of Chicago. I’d cut bait. No need for any holiday decorations or
displays if we are forced to give them a place among Christian and Jewish
decorations.
A
spokesperson for the Secretary of State says the satan worshiper’s have the
right, just like those of the Christian and Jewish faith. And I can’t argue
with his logic. I just argue that the state should have folded its tent and got
out of the Christmas decoration business.
There is
little known about the Satanic Temple but a website says it’s mission is to be
“politically aware, civic-minded Satanists.” It also advocates against corporal
punishment in our schools, promotes abortion, and actively applies for
pro-satanic after school clubs to be recognized alongside clubs like the
Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
You can
believe whatever you want. I’m very comfortable with my beliefs. Just leave the
halls of the rotunda clean. No need for controversy. If you let this stand you
know more will follow.
And I can’t
stomach the thought of Merry Christmas from the Nazi’s.
I have been enjoying your blog for a few posts now, and felt compelled to join the conversation ... but first a disclaimer. As an employee of WFIW-WOKZ the views stated in this post are mine, and in no way represent the viewpoint of the stations.
ReplyDeleteThis is a complex topic with many layers to examine.
First let's look at it from a Constitutional viewpoint.
1)One must determine the true meaning of separation of Church and State. 2)As a Veteran I must respect the aspect of the individual freedoms laid out for us as Americans. I don't have to agree with it, but you're very much free to do whatever. (within the limits of the laws and decency)
Second, let's look at it from the historic aspect. Yes the reason for Christmas as we know it is to celebrate the birth of Christ...However, in the days of Christ's birth the Gregorian Calendar had yet to be invented. That fact combined with scripture of The shepherds were tending to their flocks in the field, at night, and followed the North Star. The desert of the middle east gets unbearably cold at night, therefore the Shepherds would bring their flocks in at evening. (Usually housing them in some cave, or "cellar" style structure) Therefore, one would deduce that Jesus was born around late March or early April. This doesn't negate the subject at hand, just feel it's valid for clarity.
Finally, let's look at it from a Religious point of view. Regardless of what religion you follow, be it Christianity, Taoism, Hindu, Muslim, Jewish, etc; all teach of a "Devil" and a "Hell". We are taught that you must fear, not love evil. Yet we are also taught, for the most part, to hate the sin but love the sinner. Let us also remember that Christmas as we celebrate it today is based off a Pagan Holiday, and even though Paganism is also a form of religion; there are drastic differences between Christian and Pagan beliefs.
That being said, I believe everyone has equal right to celebrate this holiday as they see fit. Those that choose to serve the Satanic Church will face the same judgement as everyone else in the end. If our beliefs in a true and merciful God prove to be true in the end, judgement shall be his and his alone. However, we are a nation of majority rule, and we must hold on to decency for the sake of our future as a nation and a people. It would indeed be far better to see our Capital and Government buildings go without decoration completely, than to see what used to be a season of joy tarnished by too much "inclusion".
Merry Christmas and Be Kind To Each Other,
Jeremy W. Smith
Board Operator WFIW-WOKZ