LINCOLN, IL -- The Springfield Nativity Scene Committee (SNSC) is happy to announce its 9th annual celebration on Tuesday, November 29th from 12 Noon until 1 P.M. The display depicting the birth of Jesus Christ will, once again, stand in the center of the Illinois state capitol Rotunda throughout the Christmas season, next to the Governor’s “Holiday” Tree.
The mission statement of the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee is two-fold. First and foremost is to honor the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus. The SNSC’s secondary goal is to inform the media and the public (statewide and nationwide) that this display of religious faith in the public square is guaranteed by the Constitution of the United States of America. The Nativity scene, representing the birth of Jesus, is legal because it is temporary in nature and is privately-sponsored.
The Illinois ACLU is again expected to put up a display which states they support the Springfield Nativity Scene Committee’s Constitutional right to erect a Nativity Scene.
The opening prayer will be led by the Rev. Bernie Lutchman, President of Business Men In Christ of Springfield and an SNSC member. Music will be provided by The Ferraro & Hogan families of Jacksonville & Springfield.
Speakers include Thomas Brejcha, President and Chief Counsel of the Chicago-based Thomas More Society & an SNSC member; Fr. Daren J. Zehnle, Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield; State Rep. Tim Butler, Springfield and State Sen. Sam McCann, Springfield.
Directly following the Nativity Scene celebration, first responder Chaplain Steve Holden of Wreaths Across America will honor our military by placing a wreath in front of the flags representing all branches of the U.S. military. This will be Chaplain Holden's fourth year participating with the SNSC.
The Nativity display can be viewed in the Rotunda, located at 301 S. 2nd Street, Springfield, Illinois during regular business hours. Anyone interested in singing Christmas songs by the Nativity Scene should contact Salli Chernis, Secy. of State's office, Dept. of Physical Services, at 217-782-8996 for permission. NOTE: Music is limited to the noon hour.
For more info:
Julie Zanoza, Chair Woman, SNSC
217-737-0416
