Rehoboth Beach - No nativity scene permitted (Georgetown, Viola: rent, house)

[nuts2uiam]

The City of Rehoboth Beach has now voted in new rules that effectively will prohibit any Nativity (or any other display) on city property. To put the rule in a nutshell, the rule is that if the city doesn't own it or rent it, it can't be placed on city public property.

This is indeed a sad day, as Rehoboth history is that of a Methodist campground.

https://www.delmarvanow.com/story/ne...ar/6178228002/

Rules per the city. These show as proposed from the meeting but were adopted yesterday.
https://cityofrehoboth.civicweb.net/...478A94823FD1C5

[toobusytoday]

But that makes sense doesn't it? Nativity scenes are beautiful and they belong on church property, not public spaces.

[nuts2uiam]

Originally Posted by toobusytoday

But that makes sense doesn't it? Nativity scenes are beautiful and they belong on church property, not public spaces.

Not at all. Of course, it goes without saying that you are entitled to your opinion. Research the history of Rehoboth Beach and you will find it was settled by the Methodist as a campground - I can’t do it justice. The scene has been a part of this area Christmas display annually since the 1930’s. until 2 years ago. There was no cost to the city and all religious affiliations were offered the opportunity to host a display and not one was interested.

The circle in Georgetown has one as do many public spaces in De.

A Christmas tree is put up with Christmas carols sung. Santa has a house on the Boardwalk. (Not this year). All associated with Christianity and celebrated with much fanfare. The merchants love it as the annual tree lighting brings in throngs of people many of whom will have dinner and shop while here.

I come from a multi religion community on Long Island. I have been part of Hanukkah celebrations, Passover celebrations and Diwali celebrations to name just a few. They have been to my home during Christmas and Easter. None of us felt threatened, or disrespected by another’s beliefs or displays.
We shared the holidays. I learned a lot and respected the history of those celebrations. I even helped build a Sukkah with a few Jewish friends. I learned so much from my association with those from other faiths and truly respected each of them.

Rather than seeking to dismiss, we should speak to include and embrace what made the area what it was. Again, JMO.

[parentologist]

I have always loved seeing all the symbols of Christmas, including Nativity scenes. They are beautiful, and brighten the winter season. As with all other religious symbols, they belong on private property.

[nuts2uiam]

Originally Posted by parentologist

I have always loved seeing all the symbols of Christmas, including Nativity scenes. They are beautiful, and brighten the winter season. As with all other religious symbols, they belong on private property.

Again, your opinion, to which you are entitled. Did you know that there is an annual Nativity display on the Ellipse in DC, not far from the Christmas Tree? It was removed for a period of 11 years and has been back since 1994. Read the history of the Nativity on the Ellipse in Dc. Good stuff.

[parentologist]

We are supposed to have separation of Church and State in this country, and that should preclude placement of any and all religious symbols on public property. Violations of separation of Church and State don't by their existence make themselves right.

[nuts2uiam]

Originally Posted by parentologist

We are supposed to have separation of Church and State in this country, and that should preclude placement of any and all religious symbols on public property. Violations of separation of Church and State don't by their existence make themselves right.

See Lynch v Donnelly regarding this position. Like I said and will fight for your right to it, you are entitled to your opinion. However, but I will always site the precedent for the case.

[parentologist]

If you were to go by precedent for things that are patently wrong, we would still have slavery in this country.

[rsdk]

It's possible Rehoboth sees a litigation risk in using taxpayer money for any religious purpose, as atheists pay taxes too.

[udelslayer]

Is the big Krampus display still ok?