It looks like everyone is going by the rules….but is there more to it?
Nativity Scene (And More) At Leesburg Courthouse: MyFoxDC.com
I find it odd that they continue to allow any displays at all. On the other hand, is a Christmas tree a religious symbol? I have always thought of Christmas trees as a symbol of the season. Its origins were pagan and at least in America, Christmas is a national holiday. The tree is its symbol. Christians do more and have their own special relics and artifacts of the season. And that’s a good thing. But for right now, I like the tree being neutral, like wreaths and candy canes. Anyone who objects to Christmas trees, wreaths and candy canes is just a grinch and trying to make an issue.
remember, jesus is the reason for the season. christmas=birth of christ. christ=Khristós, the anointed one
I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. John 14:6
I agree Christmas is a Christian holiday. However, it has become so universal in this country that it has incorporated many symbols that simply aren’t Christian. Christians cannot claim exclusivity on the cardinal, the pine cone, the wreath, red bows, candy canes, mistletoe, (sure dont see that often nowadays) the Christmas tree, and Santa. These are not religious symbols.
I am suggesting that Christmas has become an American holiday as well as a Christian holiday. In other words, symbols of the season that aren’t religious in nature should not be interpreted as religion in the public square. A lighted tree, wreaths, poinsettas, candy canes etc can decorate stores, streets and courthouses without being seen as crossing the church/state line. A manger–not so much. that is religious.
Just out of curiosity, aren’t there plenty of churches in Leesburg that would gladly display a creche? Why must it be on the courthouse lawn? Now everyone has to draw a line in the sand. Any time there are these religious/non religion tubs of war, it detracts from the season.
Moon, please keep in mind all the symbols started out one way or another as a religious symbol – to include Santa Claus (the embodiment of many qualities). The meaning behind many have been lost – or co-opted in either a commercial or religious theme/belief/practice. My Mother’s side of the family is German, and our tradition includes celebrating the 12 Days of Christmas right down to “Little Christmas” on January 6th. We used to get one small gift (used to be a belt, hankerchiefs, wallet) on that day.
The greens around the Advent Candles is one example which became a tradition and practice.
All that said, I agree Christmas as it is known has an “American Stamp” all over it because of our great melting pot of cultures. That is what makes it such a neat time of the year! Each one of the cultures contributed something, and so all the various symbols of old now are just symbols of the Season.
I for one have never figured out why a creche on a courthouse – or any Distinctive Faith Group display – has such earnest by people to be planted on what most places is the County Seat. And the other 50 weeks or so of the year, there is such a hallaballoo over seperation. I suppose if I ever figure it out, it will either make me a rich man, or Public Enemy #1…LOL!
I don’t know the answer to that one either, Raymond. In the first place, it doesn’t bother me one way or the other, even though I am very much into establishment clause issues.
I really meant to get out to Leesburg to personally observe all this. Tempest in a teapot? I do think Leesburg is right taking the all or nothing point of view.
I guess by the time Fir trees and yule logs got adopted by Christians, people tried to forget they were part of pagan worship.