By James Mcintyre
Christian Today
Franklin Graham has blasted as 'ridiculous' a decision by a federal judge ordering that a 34-foot tall cross be taken down from a Florida park on the grounds that it violates the US Constitution.
Christian Today
Franklin Graham has blasted as 'ridiculous' a decision by a federal judge ordering that a 34-foot tall cross be taken down from a Florida park on the grounds that it violates the US Constitution.
The evangelist blamed secularist organisations such as the American Humanist Association and the Freedom From Religion Foundation for 'ridiculous changes like this'.
Graham wrote on Facebook: 'The Bible tells us that the cross is an offense. That's because it represents the saving power of the Lord Jesus Christ who rose from the grave after three days to redeem us from the penalty of our sins.'
US District Judge Roger Vinson wrote in his ruling: 'I am aware that there is a lot of support in Pensacola to keep the cross as is, and I understand and respect that point of view. But, the law is the law.'
The lawsuit was filed in 2016 by the secularist groups on behalf of four citizens in Pensacola, where the Florida park with the cross is located.
The judge, who appeared to reach the ruling with some reluctance, pointed out that the park has hosted tens of thousands of people for roughly 75 years without causing anyone offense – until now.
The original cross, erected in 1941 at Bayview Park, was replaced with a 34-foot, white 'Latin Cross' in 1969.
Judge Vinson noted in his ruling the 'Bayview Cross' is 'part of the rich history of Pensacola and Bayview Park in particular,' adding that it had been the focal point for Memorial Day and Veteran's Day services as well as Easter Sunrise services.
The judge, who appeared to reach the ruling with some reluctance, pointed out that the park has hosted tens of thousands of people for roughly 75 years without causing anyone offense – until now.
The original cross, erected in 1941 at Bayview Park, was replaced with a 34-foot, white 'Latin Cross' in 1969.
Judge Vinson noted in his ruling the 'Bayview Cross' is 'part of the rich history of Pensacola and Bayview Park in particular,' adding that it had been the focal point for Memorial Day and Veteran's Day services as well as Easter Sunrise services.
'However, after about 75 years, the Bayview Cross can no longer stand as a permanent fixture on city-owned property,' the judge ruled, directing the city of Pensacola to remove the cross within 30 days. The judge also ordered the city to pay the aggrieved plaintiffs one dollar in damages – effectively a quarter each.
Christian Today continues
Persecution Unveiled has been called by God to prick the consciences of this nation and all free people to speak up and act on behalf of those who have no voice. Follow us on Pinterest, and Google; like us on Facebook, and visit our website using this link.
Persecution Unveiled has been called by God to prick the consciences of this nation and all free people to speak up and act on behalf of those who have no voice. Follow us on Pinterest, and Google; like us on Facebook, and visit our website using this link.
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