I doubt that this government sponsorship of Christianity would fly here at home, in the United States. ACLU or FFRF attorneys would bring down a legal sledgehammer on it right quick.
Abroad? That’s another matter.
Christmas is the high season in Bethlehem. The traditional birthplace of Christ is the biggest tourist attraction in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. Nearly 2 million people visit Bethlehem each year — a number that has risen steadily over the past several years. …
This holiday season, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) donated almost $400,000 to bolster the Christmas celebrations on Manger Square. A tree, entertainment and a small Christmas market are staples, but this year saw more music, more booths and more days of activities.
Isn’t this a textbook confluence of state and church — the kind that the U.S. government is constitutionally obligated to refrain from?
Also, if the 20,000-strong population of Bethlehem draws two million visitors a year, and most of those tourists have fat wallets, I can’t say I understand why the residents don’t thank their lucky stars for that annual windfall, and why they expect American taxpayers to donate a small fortune in order to help promote the cult of Jesus.
It’s Moving Day for the Friendly ..."
It’s Moving Day for the Friendly ..."
It’s Moving Day for the Friendly ..."
It’s Moving Day for the Friendly ..."