Free Republic

A woman who has organized a local farmers' market for years in the city of Pataskala, Ohio, was prohibited from putting on a live nativity display for a Christmas-themed market until officials backed down. Susan Conley requested in September to be allowed to set up the nativity scene on public grounds this year after previously having it located on private property. The city denied the request, despite allowing other displays that included the Grinch, Santa Claus, and Buddy the Elf. The First Liberty Institute, which represents Conley, said in a press release that city officials backtracked after the organization sent...

WASHINGTON - Christian ministries are celebrating the birth of Christ with a nativity scene on Capitol Hill across from the Supreme Court but are prepared for challenges from the local government since residential front yards are considered public property in the District of Columbia. The nearly life-size figurines that will light up from the inside at night are of Joseph, Mary and the wise men who are surrounding the baby Jesus. The display is located at the ministry offices of Faith and Action, the National Clergy Council and the Christian defense coalition. The building is located in a street behind...