The Nativity Scene and all the music provided by various churches and groups on Marietta Square Thursday, Friday, and Saturday was heartwarming, uplifting and so appropriate for the Christmas season. The tireless efforts of Doris Fowler and the Marietta Council are to be congratulated.
It has been many years since we have enjoyed the Nativity Scene on the Square in Marietta, and it is a welcome return. Many of us who have lived in Marietta for several years remember the decorations of characters appropriate for the season as well as the Nativity. It was always an event to be enjoyed by the entire family.
Anyone driving by or observing the Square can attest to the popularity of the recent music and Nativity Scene. At anyone time there were more than three hundred people, and at times even more, enjoying the Christmas Carols, bell ringers and other musical talent from the area eager to help us experience the joy of this special holiday.
Many in our area are Jewish. Our country was founded on Christian-Judeo beliefs. For this reason, it would also be appropriate next year to place a Menorah or some recognition of Hanukkah on the Square since this Jewish holiday nearly coincides with our Christmas.
Regarding atheists and other non believers, worship or believe as you will, but those or us who are Christians and Jews should be able to observe publicly our holidays since. as in elections, and other voting occasions, the majority rules, and we are thankfully still in the majority. These events should not be considered as unlawful requiring legal action by any group or groups.
We look forward to this experience again next year for more than the three days of the event this year.
Frances Wagner
Canton
Follow us on Twitter!
I have not been to the square, so I have not seen or shared the good things you describe. Nonetheless, it warms my heart to know they are happening. To those who provide these displays of our American heritage, I thank you.
I am always surprised that those who challenge the displays of Christianity consistently misquote the Constitution and its amendment to justify their efforts to stifle displays of faith. The First Amendment:
"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."
"prohibiting the free exercise thereof"
The intent was to allow us to practice religion freely. It was to protect religion from the state--NOT-the state from religion.
Ms. Wagner, what you describe that is in the square is encouraging.
I most certainly agree with you that we are not a democracy. Rather, we are a constitutional republic. We are a nation of laws, not men. Can I keep the fig leaf?
I wish you peace and hapiness in the New Year.