(Christian Headlines) “Just last year, the Supreme Court explained that public religious displays that are part of the nation’s history and tradition are presumptively constitutional,” said Lea Patterson, counsel at First Liberty Institute. “Whether war memorials, holiday decorations, flags, or government seals, passive public displays with religious content are commonplace, appropriately recognizing the role faith plays in the lives of many citizens. We are hopeful that the Seventh Circuit will follow the Supreme Court’s precedent in American Legion and restore Jackson County’s traditional nativity display.”
The scene has been on display in Jackson County since 2003 when the Brownstown Ministerial Association purchased it and sought approval for placement on the courthouse lawn. A Santa Claus, sleigh, and reindeer are also incorporated in the nativity.