I am not one to complain, but I find the need to point out removing the creche nativity scene from the Christmas tree square in Rehoboth Beach next to the Bandstand is unacceptable.
It is especially unacceptable because we had permission to put it there from the city manager, and we appreciated her consideration and kindness.
Sharon Lynn gave Father Cocco from St. Edmond permission at the Community Unity Dinner on Sunday night, as I was standing right next to him. The creche, which is owned by the Kiwanis Club, was put up by the Knights of Columbus on Tuesday. The city manager wanted us to contact other non-Christian religions and see if they wanted to participate in also having a display.
We were in the process of doing just that, even though I would have thought that burden should not have fallen on our shoulders, as that request seemed unreasonable. Irregardless, the next day, because other religions were not already represented or displayed, the city manager decided to make us take it down.
There is no rhyme or reason for that decision. The Catholic Church and Lewes-Rehoboth Association of Churches have no pull in making other religions put up a display. After all, it has been a part of our community as long as I can remember - since 1979 - and I know much longer, if you ask other actually born-here Rehoboth citizens.
I am asking The City of Rehoboth Beach and Sharon Lynn to please reconsider. One more year without Christ in Christmas just does not bring our community back together. The spirit of giving and caring needs to be part of what we as citizens are all about, and especially during this blessed time of year.
Patty Derrick
Rehoboth Beach
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