Controversy Inspires Nativity Weekend

Friday, December 16, 2011 at 6:29 AM

The nativity scene as seen in 2010 at the

Franklin County Courthouse in Brookville. This

year, the scene has been moved across the

lawn away from the flagpole.

file photo

(Brookville, Ind.) – After four decades of sitting quietly on the Franklin County Courthouse lawn, a nativity scene became the center of a huge controversy last Christmas season.

Wisconsin atheist group Freedom From Religion Foundation cited separation of church and state violations. They demanded the nativity display be taken off the public property.

This year, secular Christmas decorations such as reindeer and candy canes have been placed near the display to make it fall in line with past court rulings.

Last year’s flap has inspired some in the Brookville community to rallying around the display this Christmas season. The Franklin County Nativity group has deemed December 16 through 18 "Nativity Weekend."

A reading at the Brookville Public Library at 6:30 p.m. Friday will begin the observance.

The group is asking that all churches, homes, and businesses in Franklin County display their nativities this weekend and through Christmas.

Franklin County Nativity’s website lists other local nativity events throughout the weekend.