Why do religious groups need to have their theology stated on state property? Do they need government approval to sanctify their faith? Does it make them feel better that Big Brother gives his blessing?
In Olympia Washington, an atheist group placed its message next to a Christian Nativity scene and a “holiday tree”. It reads:
“At this season of the Winter Solstice may reason prevail. There are no gods, no devils, no angels, no heaven or hell. There is only our natural world. Religion is but myth and superstition that hardens hearts and enslaves minds.”
The sign is a placeholder until the message the group truly wants to display arrives, which is to keep church and state separate.
In 2006, when a menorah was displayed, a Christian group asked the state to sponsor a nativity scene. State lawmakers denied the request, saying they didn’t have time to wade through requests from religious groups to offer government endorsement. Then why did they allow the menorah?
This year there is a Nativity Scene and the atheist message, but no menorah was requested. Either every religion should have placement, or none. And if you truly have faith, you don’t need government imprimatur.