Faith

Atheists Continue Threats Over ‘Unconstitutional’ RI Firehouse Cross & WWII Memorial (But City Isn’t Backing Down!)

Months after atheists first demanded that a World War I and II monument be removed from in front of a Woonsocket, Rhode Island, fire hall, the debate is nowhere near over. The Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF), the atheist group at the center of the debate, is refusing to back down, as citizens continue to defend the monument’s presence. In a second letter to local leaders, the FFRF is, once again, urging officials to remove the cross.

FFRF Continues Fight Against Woonsocket War Memorial Cross

Image Credit: ABC6

In April, TheBlaze first reported about the group’s demand that the monument be removed from public lands. As you may recall, one week after the story broke, a fierce response erupted, with an estimated 1,500 people assembling against atheists’ demands and in support of the monument.

(Related: ‘Don’t Cross God’: See 1,000+ Christians & Veterans Defy Atheists’ Demands & Rally In Support of RI WWII Cross)

Despite massive push-back, atheists maintain that the cross must be relocated. Annie Laurie Gaylor, co-president of the FFRF, has demonstrated that her group is devoted to fighting it. Expressing confidence a few months back, Gaylor said that she suspects that the issue can be resolved without a long court battle.

“The law is on our side. We are not against veterans in any way. It isn’t necessary to honor veterans with a cross on public property,” she previously said in an interview with the Associated Press. “I think that reason is not prevailing right now. This is a lot of blowhards and emotion. Maybe they’ll get it out of their system.”

In a second letter, the FFRF is asking the city for an official legal response to its demand that the monument be removed — something that Mayor Leo Fontaine claims simply will not happen. However, the city’s leader will respond to the atheist group in an official press release scheduled on Friday at 5 p.m. at the Museum of Public Works, WPRO reports. The event will feature a video, the city’s formal response and comments from Joe Larisa, Woonsocket’s attorney.

“Hopefully this puts an end to it,” Fontaine said, going on to defend the monument. “I think our monument is certainly different than a lot of these issues that have popped up across the country and we do need to take a pretty strong stand and make sure people understand that.”

FFRF Continues Fight Against Woonsocket War Memorial Cross

Massive rally in support of the Woonsocket, Rhode Island, WWI and WWII memorial (Image Credit: WPRO)

With neither party backing down, it will be intriguing to see where the story will go next. Currently, citizens are supporting the monument by placing white crosses in their front yards. Regardless of the level of support for keeping it where it is, the FFRF seems intent on having the religious symbol moved.

TheBlaze will continue to bring you updates on this story.

(H/T: WPRO)

Comments (174)

1 2 3 4
  • Krutch
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 2:39pm

    I think it would be cheaper to get rid of the atheists. Not quicker but cheaper.

    Report Post »  
    • phillyatheist
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 3:05pm

      since majority rules and all, let’s vote on it. hold a National referendum (or even state by state) to jail any professed Atheist for treason against this Christian Nation. how’s that sound? then we can rename America the United States of Jesus.

      Report Post » phillyatheist  
    • jaylew
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 3:22pm

      There’s a reason Rhode Island is the smallest state…..and sometimes stories like this just prove why.

      Report Post » jaylew  
    • The_Jerk
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 3:32pm

      Tell the Jews that we are not going to continue to sacrifice our culture.

      Report Post »  
    • The_Jerk
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 3:37pm

      Sorry, just ask Rabbi Daniel Lapin and Zef Chafets… don’t want any propagandists defaulting to the anti-Semitic argument.

      Report Post »  
    • SLAPTHELEFT
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 3:45pm

      Hey phillyatheist

      I emailed your tart buddy at we are atheism and asked her when she was gonna embark on the anti Muslim crusade. She said y‘all just don’t have the time.

      You’re a coward. She’s a coward. And Islam will sort both of you out once we are all gone. The sword of conversion is sharp and no supreme court will save your pencil neck. Chump.

      Report Post » SLAPTHELEFT  
    • SLAPTHELEFT
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 3:48pm

      Annie Baylor said its a lot of blowhards?

      That’s all you atheists are is crybaby blowhards. Go to chick fila tonight to support anti god agenda.

      Satans heating up the fire. Good little satanic soldiers.

      Report Post » SLAPTHELEFT  
    • phillyatheist
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 3:52pm

      SLAP – i have no idea what you’re talking about. i’ve never visited the site “we are atheism”, but thanks for the suggestion.

      as for the Muslims – if they become a huge portion of our population i’ll gladly rail against any infringement they make towards our secular government. until then, the Christians are the ones who continue to push the boundaries. i don’t even run into Muslims on a daily basis (that i know of) and my town has zero mosques but 20 churches.

      Report Post » phillyatheist  
    • The_Jerk
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 4:12pm

      Phillyatheist, fact is, there‘s nothing Constitutional about the concept of ’separation of church and state.’ So, if you’re going to make a Constitutional argument, begin with the fiction.

      Report Post »  
    • scarebear83
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 4:44pm

      What I don’t seem to understand is how some people think the government is this big separate entity. Well I mean that seems that way now but our government was based on WE the people. Regular everyday folks can run for office not some elitist whose royal bloodline is somehow superior to everyone else‘s and they and their children will continue to ’rule the land’ so to speak. Our government is us, all of us because we have the choice to vote for those who best represent our morals and ways of thinking. So for atheists to come in and say in order for it to be government or for you to be in office religion must be checked at the door… but that’s impossible, being a Christian does not stop. It’s not something one has the privilege of turning on and off like a light bulb. The reason that cross is there is because WE the people who also make up our government want it there. If you want that to change then run for office yourself or vote for more people with your line of thinking. Trying to intimidate and coerce the people with lawsuits shows nothing but that they can be a bully. If you want this to truly be the land of the free then show a little bit of tolerance. And by tolerance I don‘t mean you have to accept one’s beliefs the definition of tolerate is to allow the existence, presence, practice, or act of without prohibition or hindrance; permit. -Even if it differs from your own beliefs.

      Report Post » scarebear83  
    • Unix
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 10:26pm

      To hell with the atheist fringe element, they will answer for their sins

      Report Post » Unix  
    • holy ghostbuster
      Posted on August 4, 2012 at 8:39am

      When Islamic or Jewish symbols start being displayed on public property, I will rally against that as well. I just haven’t seen any lately. Do know where we can find some?

      Report Post » holy ghostbuster  
    • Git-R-Done
      Posted on August 4, 2012 at 3:13pm

      Gee Holyghostbuster, you must really hate freedom of speech and freedom of religion in this country since you’re so supportive of trying to eradicate religious symbols.

      Report Post »  
    • veryspecialladie
      Posted on August 4, 2012 at 3:35pm

      Cheaper and better. Let them come whining to the Christians to help them When Obama’s Muslim Brotherhood starts trying to promote Sharia law here. If it had not been for people wanting to be able to worship the Christian Lord, the USA would not have been formed so we could have our Christian Values. The muslim extremest will make these atheist really fight for what they think is right when they are buried and stoned for their actions and beliefs like so many of the other nations. It is time for the Atheist to go back home and put a stick in their mouths to shut them up.

      Report Post » veryspecialladie  
    • johnsnare
      Posted on August 4, 2012 at 7:21pm

      I am a little confused. Exactly what religion does an unmarked cross represent?

      Report Post »  
    • PQ4U
      Posted on August 18, 2012 at 12:34pm

      WoW! For people that have no faith they sure are offend by faith. Born in a country that was found on pure faith. A gift to ours & future generations. It strikes me odd that Atheist have an organization to promote there non faith and / or non religious view. More like big BULLIES. Why do we offend you so much? Move!!! These so call organization mission it seems is to destroying, distorting, dividing. Make us forget where and why this country is so exceptional. We relishes in the simplest and yet most valuable of freedoms. Ours to worship or non worship the way we wish. My forefathers put that up. What did theirs leave them? To remember , to guide, to warn. They don’t have ANYTHING but hate / non tolerance! WE DO our forefather left us all kinds of reminder, guides and warning. We should make sure they are NEVER REMOVED! Vet your politician in office carefully. Make sure they have a backbone and moral fiber. Stand by the oath they take when entering office. Make sure they are like minded people. It does come down to “We the People” ~ Faith, Family & Freedom

      Report Post »  
    • anOpinion
      Posted on August 21, 2012 at 3:02am

      Its not Atheists in general, its the fringe group FFRF.

      FFRF apparently makes 100′s of these requests every year, threatening people with lawsuits. I think some smart lawyers out there ought to look at the FFRF practices and see if they can counter-sue (for harassment, frivolous lawsuits, etc.).

      Report Post » anOpinion  
  • WithOutGodWePerishAsARepublic
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 2:37pm

    I don’t see a cross ..I see a lower case “t” …lol !!! If the atheists (FFRF) say it is a cross then I guess they aren’t really atheists because they see a cross.. LOL …you see what you want to see… it could be a cross or a “t” …it is whatever you want it to be… would be hard in court to prove other wise …LOL !!!! So what is it FFRF ??? A cross or a “t” ??? Does not matter what you think really ..because every knee (I Repeat …Every Knee !! ) Shall bend !!!!!

    Report Post »  
  • cassandra
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 2:25pm

    NEWS FLASH it is NOT unConstitutional Amendment 1 Congress shall make no law respecting an estalishment of religion OR PROHIBITING the FREE EXCERCIZE THEREOF so all you atheiest radicals out there YOU don’t know what your talking about

    Report Post »  
    • Heffe44
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 2:38pm

      You are wrong. You can’t have religious symbols on Goverment property. This is a law and correct interpretation of the 1st amend.

      Report Post »  
    • lisa2994
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 2:43pm

      They forget that part in the constitution it is all in the wording. Most twist it to fit their agenda of removing anything to do with Faith.

      Report Post » lisa2994  
    • Godfather.1
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 2:53pm

      Requiring the government to remove the cross is not prohibiting the free exercise of religion. It simply is preventing the government from supporting a religion; something that is strictly prohibited by the first clause of the First Amendment, the part you seemed to skip right over.

      Please explain, how does prohibiting the government from sponsoring religion prevent you from practicing?

      Report Post »  
    • Tired_of_The_Liberal_Spin
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 3:32pm

      Then lets have those that support the cross pitch in and purchase the small plot of land from the City which will close the issue altogether, and the intolerant Atheists can crawl back under their godless rock.

      Report Post » Tired_of_The_Liberal_Spin  
    • SacredHonor1776
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 3:51pm

      http://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/visitorinformation/MonumentMemorials/CanadianCross.aspx

      http://www.arlingtoncemetery.net/argonne-cross.htm

      What some people forget is the historic merit of many of these old memorials. Many are old enough to be eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. People who attempt to get rid of them are trying wipe history or enforce a revisionist form of history. If anything they are trying to promote a reinterpretation of the constitution that not even the founders promoted.

      For example the constitution originally didn’t ban state religions, several states continues to have their own endorsed religion until they modified their own constitutions to direct support such as church taxes.

      In addition use of a symbol by itself is not establishing a religion. neither is building a chapel or stonehenge for individuals to worship in say on army bases. It is free exercise of individuals to decide how they originally wanted to honor the men who fought for them. Historically this was often done with crosses. Even if you go back to many revolutionary or coil war memorials as well. Again that is part of history.

      People may not realize this even the Washington monument has bible verse on the top.

      Report Post »  
    • the_truth_or_not
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 5:26pm

      @HEFFE44

      Below is the first Amendment of the Bill of Rights according to Cornell U. and the Actual Bill of Rights. Please tell me how this says that you cannot have religious symbols on Gov’t property. I would like to know.
      A religious symbol is not a law, nor does it abridge the freedom of speech, press, or the right of the people to peaceably assemble. Any greivance that may exist about them posting this memorial, is NOT founded by the Bill of Rights.

      Amendment I:
      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.

      Report Post » the_truth_or_not  
    • Wolfgang the Gray
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 7:01pm

      Atheists, what is next? I bet you are all drooling at the thought of getting all the cross shaped headstones pulled from military cemeteries all over the country. Those are all on government land. Tell you what, the day you try to pull my veteran father’s stone, my veteran grandfather’s stone, my veteran great grandfather’s stone, that will be the day you need to buy your own.

      I support your right to express your opinion, but when you step on my rights to promote yours, that is where the line gets crossed. Why don’t you move to one of the many socialist countries where religious icons are forbidden. Then you could deny God with all the others.

      Report Post » Wolfgang the Gray  
    • hopeakukko
      Posted on August 4, 2012 at 4:51pm

      Actually, it is not unconstitutional to have religious symbols on public or government property. It’s all over the monuments in D.C. Thomas Jefferson attended church held in the Capital Building. Sunday church services were held there for 100 years.

      “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion (there’s no law involved here establishing a religion), or prohibiting the free exercise thereof (this is the free exercise of religion mentioned here and government cannot make a law against it); or abridging the freedom of speech (which this is), or the press; or the right of the people to peacefully assemble (notice that there is no qualifier as to where or for what purpose the people may or may not peacefully assemble—it just says we have the right to), and ….”

      The more you attempt to twist the Constitution, the more pitiful and desperate you seem. You do not know how to let people live their lives without your constant harassment. I’m sorry that you live such miserable lives that you think we want to be like you and share your misery. We don’t, and we won’t. No matter how loud you scream, not matter how many lawyers you hire, not matter how many judges you buy off, Christianity will prevail. Christians have suffered a lot more than being harassed by a few distressed atheists. Today, Christians prevail in the face of mass murder, fire, corruption and hatred. Atheists aren’t much of a challenge.

      Report Post »  
    • the_truth_or_not
      Posted on August 4, 2012 at 7:10pm

      @HOPE

      Thank-you for making my point. You were more articulated and detailed as I was.

      Report Post » the_truth_or_not  
    • rightwingwacko
      Posted on August 4, 2012 at 10:01pm

      HEFFE44 You need to read history not the new rewritten history, but from original sources. Our public buildings have from our founding been used for religious services. It is not up for debate it is a fact. If a cross or star of david offend you that is your problem not the war memorials. Also go to Arlington and you will see more than a cross on the graves of our dead service men and women. Constitutional loving Americans are starting to stand up against all the nonsense that we have ignored for too long…no longer are we going to allow it and we will not going to sit down again it will end here and now. Most of us would like to be left alone to live our lives but big govt. progressives, radical atheists and and the like won’t leave us alone. So we have to fight back and we are the ones who have always fought for everyone else (so we know how). I will end with God bless the USA and Semper Fi

      Report Post » rightwingwacko  
  • red_white_blue2
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 2:16pm

    I think the whole answer to this story is reflected in the sign in the middle picture of this article. The person holding the sign defining the words in the Constitution–SHOULD be all that is neccesary to settle this issue.
    I think those in the 1600′s, and 1700′s were in some ways, more reasonable than today.

    Report Post » red_white_blue2  
    • Heffe44
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 2:43pm

      Well, I say take everybodies guns if your a part of “well regulated militia.” that’s the way it SHOULD be. You conservatives and your hypocrisy… you guys kills me.

      Report Post »  
  • SkyDiamond
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 2:02pm

    These needs to stop …. If the atheists‘ don’t like the cross, do not look at it. Lets get back to diversity and tolerance. I live 1 town away from Woonsocket, and am in there a couple of times each month. The people who live in Woonsocket are descendants from multiple generations.
    They are very humble, kind and friendly. It is so disappointing that the people who are atheistic sweat over the special monuments of Christian faith. How can those, who do not believe in God, want to remove anything that is meant to worship God? If you do not believe then do not use your short time on this earth trying to destroy what is important to other people. Please, just stop. If you don’t believe, then don’t. We who believe will not force you to be who you don’t want to be. The same should go for us.

    Report Post » SkyDiamond  
  • dlivelli
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:50pm

    Gotta love the tolerance, and the liberal support for freedom of expression, religion, speech etc…. As long as you tow their liberal line of thought, speech and opinion you are fine but don’t dare deviate and have a thought that differs from theirs!!! Small mindedness is a terrible problem that will be around for quite a while so we had better get used to dealing with it. It is like dealing with a child’s tantrum. Sometimes you have to ignore it and sometimes you have to take control. It usually ends with age and wisdom….we have lots of people to teach so lets get started! If that doesn’t work we can always ship em all to California, they have plenty of room….no money, but lots of room…..

    Report Post »  
  • phillyatheist
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:41pm

    i think it’s terrific that the locals are putting crosses on their lawns. that’s where they belong. the double standard is so incredibly easy to see – if it were a predominantly Jewish town, would the Christian residents not be up in arms over a Star of David on public property? answer honestly.

    Report Post » phillyatheist  
    • dcanner
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:54pm

      As a Christian, I would not object.

      Report Post »  
    • Outrider IT
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:57pm

      Silly Philly — no one would care.

      Report Post »  
    • Gonzo
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:59pm

      Would you be in favor of removing all the crosses and stars from the tombstones at Arlington National Cemetery? It is federal land.

      Report Post » Gonzo  
    • dcanner
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 2:00pm

      I have absolutely no problem with a star of david anywhere.

      Report Post »  
    • Godfather.1
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 2:04pm

      And what if it was an Islamic symbol?

      If any of you say you wouldn’t care you are lying — remember the “ground zero mosque”?

      Report Post »  
    • phillyatheist
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 2:10pm

      ok, that’s great to hear. i’ll admit surprise, pleasantly.

      “Would you be in favor of removing all the crosses and stars from the tombstones at Arlington National Cemetery?”

      no. if a family wanted the cross removed i feel they should be allowed (for all i know this may already be possible).

      Report Post » phillyatheist  
    • steveh931
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 3:06pm

      @GODFATHER.1

      If the Koran tells its followers to only reside in countries that are open to, and will follow in its teachings, why did they bring it here? This country was founded on Christian beliefs. Many of the teachings in the Koran come from the Torah and the Bible, or the ancient scripts. However, there are many scriptures in the Koran that teach hatred and the acts of violence according the actions of a Radical Islamist. Do you think for one minute that if the Muslims that originally came to the United States expressed hatred towards the American way of life and pulled the crap that Radical Islamist pull that there would be one Mosque in the United States? Why did they have to place a community center near the site of 9-11, when there wasn’t one there before 9-11? Why in the last 11 years has the amount of Mosques in the United States doubled to over 2,000? Why does Saudi Arabia use the Koran as its Constitution and why do they not permit any Christian churches to be built in Saudi Arabia? Why does CAIR have a back door key to the White House and the D.O.J? I could go on and on, but why bother, if Islam wants a war in and with the United States, it will happen.

      Report Post » steveh931  
    • Gonzo
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 3:09pm

      Philly, The Lincoln Memorial contains numerous acknowledgments of God and citations of Bible verses. How about those? Federal land once again.

      Report Post » Gonzo  
    • phillyatheist
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 3:15pm

      GONZO – the only references to God at the Lincoln Memorial are from his inaugural speech. i see no reason to scrub the walls from a historical speech that an important president gave. i’ve been there and i read it. you?

      the funny thing is that Lincoln was most certainly not a Christian, and was accused by his political foes of being an Atheist.

      Report Post » phillyatheist  
    • Godfather.1
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 3:22pm

      @steve

      “Why does Saudi Arabia use the Koran as its Constitution and why do they not permit any Christian churches to be built in Saudi Arabia?”

      Because it is Saudi Arabia and not the United States. It’s quite funny to hear all you right wing crazies talk about freedom and how your freedoms are being taken away, but then turn around and say we shoouldn‘t allow mosques because Saudi Arabia doesn’t allow churches. That’s right, you love this country because it is free, but then say we should be more like Saudi Arabia when it comes to religious freedom.

      To answer your other question: yes, if Muslims were here when the country was founded they still would have been able to build mosques — read the First Amendment. You teabaggers go on and on about being free to exercise your religion but then somehow think that doesn’t apply to Muslims.

      Report Post »  
    • phillyatheist
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 3:27pm

      GODFATHER – it’s really simple. Islamic theocracy = bad. Christian theocracy = good. got it?

      Report Post » phillyatheist  
    • Gonzo
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 4:40pm

      I don’t see why you would object to this cross then, other than you think there is a chance to remove it and the others are off limits.

      Report Post » Gonzo  
    • stumpy68
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 10:02pm

      Ive seen them in veteran cemeteries why not
      if a Jewish organization wanted to erect a star of David
      at a memorial they should be able to ,they should also either
      pay for it themselves or have the town vote on picking up the cost this isnt sponsoring a religion
      its honoring the beliefs of the ones memorialized .

      Report Post » stumpy68  
    • colt1860
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 10:07pm

      The Liberty Bell, Washington Monument, Inaugural Addressess, US Capitol Building, ETC. all show references to religious or biblical beliefs. It’s part of our heritage.

      “Fondly do we hope, fervently do we pray, that this mighty scourge of war may speedily pass away. Yet, if God wills that it continue until all the wealth piled by the bondsman’s two hundred and fifty years of unrequited toil shall be sunk, and until every drop of blood drawn with the lash shall be paid by another drawn with the sword, as was said three thousand years ago, so still it must be said “the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether…” Lincoln’s 2nd Inaugural Address
      http://www.bartleby.com/124/pres32.html

      “That I am not a member of any Christian Church, is true; but I have never denied the truth of the Scriptures; and I have never spoken with intentional disrepect of religion in general, or of any denomination of Christians in particular.” Handbill Replying to Charges of Infidelity on July 31, 1846 (CWAL I:382)

      “The good old maxims of the Bible are applicable, and truly applicable to human affairs, and in this as in other things, we may say here that he who is not for us is against us; he would gathereth not with us scattereth.” Speech at Cincinnati, Ohio, on September 17, 1859 (CWAL III:462)

      “I turn, then, and look to the American people and to that God who has never forsaken them.”
      Address to the Ohio Legislature on February 13, 1861 (CWAL IV: 204)

      Report Post »  
    • colt1860
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 10:12pm

      Lincoln’s widow in 1870 claimed he had become increasingly religious:

      “A man, who never took the name of his Maker in vain, who always read his Bible diligently, who never failed to rely on God’s promises & looked upon Him for protection, surely such a man as this, could not have been a disbeliever, or any other than what he was, a true Christian gentleman….From the time of the death of our little Edward, I believe my husband’s heart was directed towards religion & as time passed on – when Mr. Lincoln became elevated to Office… then indeed to my knowledge – did his great heart go up daily, hourly, in prayer to God – for his sustaining power. When too – the overwhelming sorrow came upon us, our beautiful bright angelic boy, Willie was called away from us, to his Heavenly Home, with God’s chastising hand upon us – he turned his heart to Christ -”

      “I do not think I could myself be brought to support a man for office whom I knew to be an open enemy of, or scoffer at, religion”. Hand Bill by Lincoln, 1846

      “Intelligence, patriotism, Christianity, and a firm reliance on Him who has never yet forsaken this favored land are still competent to adjust in the best way all our present difficulty.” 1st Inaugural Address by Lincoln

      “God bless the Methodist Church — bless all the churches — and blessed be God, Who, in this our great trial, giveth us the churches.” Response to Methodists on May 18, 1864 (CWAL VII:351)

      Report Post »  
    • colt1860
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 10:23pm

      In the fall, Lincoln issued the first Federally mandated Thanksgiving Day to be kept on the last Thursday in November. Reflecting on the successes of the past year, Lincoln said,

      “No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who, while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy. It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American People. I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens.”

      In 1864, some former slaves in Maryland presented Lincoln with a gift of a Bible. Lincoln replied:

      “In regard to this great book, I have but to say, it is the best gift God has given to man. All the good the Saviour gave to the world was communicated through this book. But for it we could not know right from wrong. All things most desirable for man’s welfare, here and hereafter, are to be found portrayed in it.”

      Report Post »  
    • colt1860
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 10:25pm

      Rev. James Armstrong Reed, in preparing his 1873 lectures on the religion of Lincoln, asked a number of people if there was any evidence of Lincoln being an infidel in his later life. The reply from Phineas Gurley, pastor of the same New York Avenue Presbyterian Church while Lincoln was an attender, to Reed’s question was:

      “I do not believe a word of it. It could not have been true of him while here, for I have had frequent and intimate conversations with him on the subject of the Bible and the Christian religion, when he could have had no motive to deceive me, and I considered him sound not only on the truth of the Christian religion but on all its fundamental doctrines and teaching. And more than that: in the latter days of his chastened and weary life, after the death of his son Willie, and his visit to the battle-field of Gettysburg, he said, with tears in his eyes, that he had lost confidence in everything but God, and that he now believed his heart was changed, and that he loved the Saviour, and, if he was not deceived in himself, it was his intention soon to make a profession of religion.”

      Report Post »  
    • colt1860
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 10:28pm

      Lincoln, like the rest of our fore fathers in early America, always reverenced the Almighty, that invincible hand that led us to victory, and had a deep attachment to and respect for the Holy Scriptures and Christian religion.

      “Men are not flattered by being shown that there has been a difference of purpose between the Almighty and them. To deny it, however, in this case, is to deny that there is a God governing the world. It is a truth which I thought needed to be told; and as whatever of humilation there is in it, falls most directly on myself, I thought others might afford for me to tell it.” Letter to Thurlow Weed on March 15, 1865

      “I am much indebted to the good christian people of the country for their constant prayers and consolations; and to no one of them, more than to yourself. The purposes of the Almighty are perfect, and must prevail, though we erring mortals may fail to accurately perceive them in advance. We hoped for a happy termination of this terrible war long before this; but God knows best, and has ruled otherwise. We shall yet acknowledge His wisdom and our own error therein. Meanwhile we must work earnestly in the best light He gives us, trusting that so working still conduces to the great ends He ordains. Surely He intends some great good to follow this mighty convulsion, which no mortal could make, and no mortal could stay.” Letter to Eliza Gurney on September 4, 1864

      Report Post »  
    • holy ghostbuster
      Posted on August 4, 2012 at 9:03am

      Veterans Cemeteries do not “promote” one religion over another, because they allow the family to choose the belief symbol of their choice for their loved-one’s marker and allow a diverse selection of religious symbols covering the most common and some uncommon religions. If the religious symbol is not on the VA approved list of symbols the family can petition to have the new symbol added. Most recently, the Wiccan symbol (pentacle) was added, after the ACLU fought and won a lawsuit from a family wanting the symbol added. Yes, believe it or not, the ACLU stood up for religious freedom.

      Report Post » holy ghostbuster  
    • Git-R-Done
      Posted on August 4, 2012 at 3:15pm

      Holy Ghostbuster – Stop pretending that the ACLU and you lefties are on the side of freedom of speech and freedom of religion when you’re not.

      Report Post »  
  • kickagrandma
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:40pm

    atheists, here’s a thought:

    READ OUR DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE, OUR CONSTITUTION, the BILL OF RIGHTS and THEN make comments. you guys babble on without knowing what you are talking about. Inform yourselves first, then babble if you must.

    Report Post »  
    • JohnLarson
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:47pm

      Yeah, especially read the “no law respecting an establishment of religion” part.

      Report Post »  
    • SGinNC
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 2:01pm

      They are not “establishing” a religion. People have been taught that this law was made to keep religion out of the government, but in fact it is the opposite, it is to keep the government out of religion. In England the church was used by the government to control people and you can see such control in other countries such as Saudi Arabia. In our country we have atheists trying to control religious people. How about you just stop pushing your unbeliefs on us?

      Report Post » SGinNC  
    • Godfather.1
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 2:08pm

      @SGinNC

      Your logic is flawed. Removal of a religious symbol from public property does not promote “unbelief” as you say, or atheism. It simply does not promote one religion over the other. Placing a cross or another religious symbol on public property does promote one religion over another, something strictly prohibited by the Constitution and something that has been repeatedly affirmed by the Supreme Court.

      Report Post »  
    • SGinNC
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 2:09pm

      Once again no one is establishing a religion, how about the rest of it? Do you know what “or prohibiting the free exercise thereof” means? We need to use their same tactics and keep them wrapped up with suits and spend them into oblivion.

      Report Post » SGinNC  
    • Godfather.1
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 2:50pm

      @SGinNC

      Apparently you don’t know what the First Amendment actually says. It says “Congress shall make no law RESPECTING an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof,” not simply that it shall not make a law establishing a religion.

      Displaying a religious symbol on public property is respecting an establishment of religion. Removing it does not infringe on your right to exercise your religion as you are still absolutely free to do so and may do so on public property; it just cannot be sponsored by a government institution.

      Report Post »  
    • colt1860
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 10:17pm

      @Godfather

      LMAO! The Constituion is written in eighteenth century English. “Respecting” in the 1st Ammendment does not mean honor, esteem, or admire. It means, as stated in Webster’s 1828 dictionary:

      RESPECT’ING, ppr. Regarding; having regard to; relating to. This word, like “concerning”, has reference to a single word or to a sentence.

      Got that?

      Report Post »  
    • colt1860
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 10:31pm

      Leave it to liberals to apply a modern understanding of word to an eitheenth century constitution. They love to twist and misrepresent that which they don’t understand. Surely, they’ve been brainwashed and misled. God help us.

      Report Post »  
    • Godfather.1
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 10:45pm

      @COLT1860

      Oh, I get it. We should all take your word over the Supreme Court, which time and time again has stated that government cannot promote religion and cannot place religious symbols on government property. Apparently you have a better understanding of history and the Constitution than the Supreme Court. From now on, instead of deferring to the Supreme Court’s decisions on the Constitution, I will defer to your judgment.

      From now on I will be sure to remember that COLT1860 is the supreme authority on Constitutional matters and that only his opinion is correct. That’s right, COLT1860′s opinion has got to be more correct than that of the Supreme Court. All the Supreme Court justices have done is study the Constitution for their entire lives and you are a blogger on TheBlaze. Thank you for clearing that up for me. I will now ask you what the Constitution means and how it relates to my daily life.

      Report Post »  
    • colt1860
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 11:13pm

      @Godfather LOL. What an ignoramus.

      Show me one Case wherein an Opinion stated the word “respecting” meant admire or esteem.

      Leave it to liberals to state their opinions as fact, and NEVER sight any real sources.

      Apparently the GODFATHER is supreme over the Dictionary. LMAO! Go figure.

      The 1st Ammendment does NOT state “Religion”. It states an “ESTABLISHMENT OF Religion”. That means an actual ecclesiastical institution.

      Madison said, “Every new and successful example therefore of a perfect seperation between ecclesiastical and civil matters is of importance.”

      Madison also stated, “No people ought to feel greater obligations to celebrate the goodness of the Great Disposer of Events of the Destiny of Nations than the people of the United States. His kind providence originally conducted them to one of the best portions of the dwelling place allotted for the great family of the human race. He protected and cherished them under all the difficulties and trials to which they were exposed in their early days. Under His fostering care their habits, their sentiments, and their pursuits prepared them for a transition in due time to a state of independence and self-government. In the arduous struggle by which it was attained they were distinguished by multiplied tokens of His benign interposition.”

      He also coauthored and approved VA’s Bil of Rights, “It is the mutual duty of all to practice Christian forbearance, love, and charity toward each other.”

      Report Post »  
  • JohnLarson
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:39pm

    Thomas Jefferson said our Constitution provided for the separation of church and state.

    It’s funny how cons paid lip service to the Constitution, but not when they disagree with it.

    Report Post »  
    • Outrider IT
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:59pm

      Please educate yourself as to where, when, and why Thomas Jefferson said what he said.

      Report Post »  
    • colt1860
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 3:10pm

      Do you liberals even freaking know what a “church” is?

      For all you idiots out there: It’s NOT a piece of stone with a cross on top of it.

      Jefferson was refering to an actual ecclesiastical institution.

      ECCLESIAS’TICAL – Pertaining or relating to a religious body, assembly or meeting; or to the organization or government of the church, as administered or directed by a body of the clergy.

      Last time I checked, THERE’S NO CLERGY, nor anyone administering any ritual, sacrament or rite, at all, in order to direct ANY church service or religious creed, on that site!

      These liberals are pathetic, liars, radicals, ignorant, arrogant, close minded, intolerant, full of hypocrosy, and delusional.

      Report Post »  
  • RANGER1965
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:34pm

    This rarely ends well for people of faith. In almost every case it ends up in front of a judge, who will interpret religious symbols on State property as the State supporting this or that religion.

    This is usually followed up by a federal order to remove the offending piece.

    It is at that point that the rubber really meets the road. Does the mayor of the town obey the directive? Will the public workers obey the mayor’s order to remove it? Does the Sherrif order his deputys to protect the workers while they remove it?
    And lastly, are the people of Woonsocket willing to commit violence, and go to jail to defend it?

    So far, the answer has always been no, and the people of these towns and burgs across America have always lost when it turns legal. In most cases the cost of continuously appealing decisions has practically bankrupted the town when they chose to fight.

    Report Post » RANGER1965  
    • phillyatheist
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:42pm

      you are so right. when will these people learn? (easy answer, they won’t. religion is like a set of horse blinders)

      Report Post » phillyatheist  
    • JohnLarson
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:45pm

      If you don’t like the Constitution, get out of America… we’re not a theocracy.

      Report Post »  
    • cessna152
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:55pm

      Philly,

      I love how you blindly follow the liberal left with their hypocritical stance on tolerance, their hatred for anything that is good and their tens of thousands of man made laws. You follow these laws like a good little soldier…laws that steal freedom and steal money. However, the 2 laws of Jesus you count as “senseless nonsense”. Talk about delusional… you follow them (MSM, teachers, etc) and their ways religiously and without hesitation. You believe what a 72 year old college professor teaches you and you worship science texts which are outdated faster than a 30 day old laptop.
      Who’s delusional? See my post below…HINT: it ain’t us.

      Report Post » cessna152  
    • RANGER1965
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 2:26pm

      Putting a cross up in the public square does not a theocracy make. It is Christian values that protect the constitution, and make it even possible.

      Report Post » RANGER1965  
    • phillyatheist
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 2:30pm

      CESSNA – which laws do i blindly follow? the speed limit is about the only law i can think of that i don’t particularly care for. give me some more examples, please.

      Report Post » phillyatheist  
    • cessna152
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 2:57pm

      Philly,

      Answer the questions… stay on topic. Look at what you support, those “blind following” and supporting of every “law”. Answer the questions I posted…

      Report Post » cessna152  
    • phillyatheist
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 3:38pm

      you asked only one question – “are you delusional”. go back and look at your post and look for these things we call question marks. they’re used to designate a question.

      i guess to answer your thoroughly thought provoking question – no.

      now answer mine please. what laws am i blindly following?

      Report Post » phillyatheist  
    • phillyatheist
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 3:40pm

      correction – you asked “who’s delusional?”. my answer – you.

      Report Post » phillyatheist  
  • kat747
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:32pm

    These atheists are totally out of control.
    We do have freedom of religion in the USA so leave the Cross alone……….

    It happens to be a World War I and World War II monument in celebration of those who
    gave their lives for the freedoms that all of us would like to continue to enjoy. It is part
    of the tradition of the town so just leave it alone for God’s sake.

    Report Post »  
  • garylee123
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:24pm

    Time to tell these whackjobs to go to hell. It take no courage to be an atheist but it does to have faith.

    Report Post »  
    • Outrider IT
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 2:02pm

      I disagree — it takes just as much faith to believe that astronomical odds and chance can cause a series of mutations to turn single celled organisms into humans, dogs, giraffes, etc.

      Report Post »  
  • cessna152
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:16pm

    I know there are some Conservative Atheists out there that are pretty level headed and this is NOT directed to you.However, Can you “other” Atheists explain, since you’re you smart in your self “inflicted” intellect, why do you agree with hundreds of thousands of man made laws, yet oppose the 2 laws that Jesus says to follow? They are simple and allow equal freedom for all.
    Also, since you’re “individual rational liberators” of thought, why did you let the Media, colleges, schools and Hollywood “mold” your vehement aggression against Christianity. Surely you’re smarter than letting MSNBC and some college professor shape your ideas and ideals about all the meanings of the universe…right?

    Never mind the 25,000 plus Manuscripts referencing Jesus and casting them as false, but accepting the 14 Manuscripts of Caesar and accepting them as irrefutable fact. How about over 650 prophecies that have come to fruition with amazing accuracy? Nah, you’ll choose to believe a 72 year old bearded college professor or some aged high school teacher instead.

    I guess people like Mr. Professor driving up to the Chic-Fil-A drive through and making little girls cry are better suited to mold your theology of all the wonders in the universe. …right?

    Report Post » cessna152  
    • kaydeebeau
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:29pm

      I too have wondered why it is perfectly acceptable to be burdened with “gadzillion” laws that are handed down by government as perfectly fine but being expected to base ones life and how one relates to others based upon 2 (which are really the summation of 10). I fail to see the “logic”

      Report Post » kaydeebeau  
  • lisa2994
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:10pm

    Woonsocket do not back down from this stand up tall and proud no matter what! If you cave this will just keep happening! GOD bless you!

    Report Post » lisa2994  
  • LeadNotFollow
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:08pm

    …
    Christians and Conservatives, it’s time to stand up and be counted.
    Please get registered to vote. Every vote will count on November 6th.
    With all the voter fraud by the Demon-crats, we need you to vote.
    Evil flourishes, when good men do nothing.
    God bless America.

    Report Post »  
  • randy
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:05pm

    Despite massive push-back, atheists maintain that the cross must be relocated. Annie Laurie Gaylor, co-president of the FFRF

    Betcha Annie Laurie “GAY”lor is also gay
    Hey look! A Gay Atheist!

    Report Post » randy  
  • Locked
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:03pm

    Hey, it was reported correctly this time as a WWII memorial (that’s when the crosses were added; they were not there in WWI). Good job, Blaze!

    Report Post »  
  • verbatim
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 12:59pm

    I’m Jewish and I want this monument to REMAIN IN PLACE. We (common sense) patriotic Americans support freedom OF religion, not freedom FROM religion.

    Report Post » verbatim  
  • LeadNotFollow
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 12:58pm

    …
    Atheists, Occupy Freaks, and GAYs are always in someone’s face, making demands.
    Get over it. You are the minority of the American population.
    The majority has spoken. All this political correctness has to stop.

    Report Post »  
  • verbatim
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 12:58pm

    I’m Jewish and I want this monument TO REMAIN IN PLACE! We (common sense) patriotic Americans support freedom OF religion not freedom FROM religion.

    Report Post » verbatim  
  • lisa2994
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 12:57pm

    Here is an idea for atheists.. Instead of spending all of your time fighting to have something taken down that all of a sudden after all theses years of it being up “offends” you. Why not help with the battle against hunger in this country and around the world! Or how about you fight for the children and people that are targeted as sex slaves??? Why not do something good with your time??

    Report Post » lisa2994  
    • normalmom
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:14pm

      Too easy to do something productive must whine about their feelings instead. Boo hoo hoo whiny brats is all they are, sadly with a good amount of money to push their selfish agenda.

      Report Post »  
    • phillyatheist
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:27pm

      we can multitask, thank you very much.

      Report Post » phillyatheist  
  • DagneyT
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 12:56pm

    If they have a defense charity fund please let me know! I will happily help with their expenses!

    Report Post » DagneyT  
    • lisa2994
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 1:03pm

      My point exactly! But I geuss they don’t know how to do anything that is decent.

      Report Post » lisa2994  
  • ACTFORCHRIST
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 12:55pm

    If it was a crescent moon nobody would dared say a word. Read, ‘THE COMING: A TRUE STORY OF HORROR’ @ amazon.com to see what we are facing. Unbelievable book!

    Report Post »  
  • IMCHRISTIAN
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 12:47pm

    I am so glad they are standing up for their believes. We have turned to God when in need, whether in war, illness or losses. God will be our final judge so I prefer to be on the right side of him because life is short and eternity is forever.

    Report Post »  
  • Best_Patriot
    Posted on August 3, 2012 at 12:46pm

    haha, you’re afraid of atheists,

    Report Post » Best_Patriot  
    • DimmuBorgir
      Posted on August 3, 2012 at 12:56pm

      Atheist should be feared, they have no belief structure to give them a clear difference between right and wrong. If they did they wouldn’t be going after a veteran monument. It should be clear to them that removing a veteran monument would fall in the wrong category.

      Report Post » DimmuBorgir  
    • Git-R-Done
      Posted on August 4, 2012 at 3:16pm

      That’s b/c atheists are trying to eradicate freedom of speech and freedom of religion.

      Report Post »  
1 2 3 4

Sign In To Post Comments! Sign In

Sign Up For Our Newsletter!

Glenn Beck Radio

Listen to Glenn Beck 24/7 Listen Now
Restoring Love