A Nativity in our State Capital

Well, it looks like we are going to visit our Illinois State Capital before Christmas. There, on Dec. 2 a nativity display will be unveiled. It has been paid for by private donations. And there many choirs will sing carols between noon and 1pm.

The project has been organized by the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee or SNSC. "The Nativity Scene is primarily meant to honor the birth of Jesus Christ," said Dan Zanoza of Lincoln and Chairman of the SNSC. "We are also hoping to demonstrate that such expressions of religious faith in the public square are legal under both the U.S. and Illinois State Constitutions. I believe many leaders of towns and municipalities have been intimidated by those who oppose such religious displays in public venues. I have been asked by many if putting a Nativity Scene in the Illinois state Capitol Building is lawful. The manger scene will answer that question and change the way the public thinks about the rights guaranteed by the First Amendment."

The SNSC will also offer its assistance and legal counsel to any Illinois citizens who may wish to put up a Nativity Scene in a public forum in their own communities.

"The right of private citizens to proclaim their religious faith and faith-based values in the public square was upheld in 1989 when Chief Judge James B. Parsons of the federal district court in Chicago held there could be no discrimination against religious expression on Daley Plaza in Chicago where, ever since, a Nativity Scene has been displayed annually," said Brejcha. "We are honored to provide legal counsel in support of this project which is long overdue."

This information and the full article can be found at Christian NewsWire.

I hope that this is the beginning of a new concept.. Christian people honoring the Lord in public places as well as in our homes. All too often the only signs of Christmas we see are Santas and trees.... removing the real meaning of the holiday, and the Christ child is left for our homes and places of worship. I am thankful for the SNSC and their offer of help to all towns in IL who want to display a nativity... and I look forward to bringing my children to the display very soon. I will post pictures if possible.