Posted on 12/01/2004 3:43:57 PM PST by FredZarguna
If groups celebrating American Indian holy people, German culture and the Chinese New Year can march in the city's Parade of Lights, why can't a Christian group march to celebrate Christmas?
That's just one of the questions bothering prominent Denver-area Pastor George Morrison.
He said he was barred from participating in the parade because his multicultural church group wanted its Christian-themed float to feature traditional yuletide hymns and a "Merry Christmas" message.
"It's a little confusing to me," said Morrison, pastor of Faith Bible Chapel in Arvada, one of the region's largest evangelical churches, with more than 4,000 worshippers.
"Here we have this holiday, Christmas, approaching, and Parade of Lights is suddenly changed into something where you can't even sing a Christmas song?"
But the parade does not allow "direct religious themes," said spokesman Michael Krikorian. That includes "Merry Christmas" signs and the singing or playing of traditional Christmas hymns. He added that the rules were spelled out when Morrison's intermediary called last spring to inquire about contributing a float.
"We want to avoid that specific religious message out of respect for other religions in the region," Krikorian said. "It could be construed as disrespectful to other people who enjoy a parade each year."
The one-hour parade, which is celebrating its 30th year this Friday and Saturday nights in downtown Denver, features elaborate floats with holiday symbols such as Santa Claus and gingerbread houses, plus an "international procession" of cultural groups.
(Excerpt) Read more at rockymountainnews.com ...
They aren't worried about lawsuits. Who's going to sue, the ACLU? LOL.
The ACLJ the Rutherford Foundation to name a couple...
I thought it was Boulder that had the famous historic Christmas Parades?
...........but,.....maybe,...The Boulder anti-christians have taken control of Denver too?
....'roots'.....? /sarcasm
If tax money is being used, then I'd contact the aclj
Thanks for the ping!
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