Print this story |
E-mail story |
This story has 89 comments Add your own |
iPod friendly | Bookmark this
What is this?
photo by Ben Hillyer
Two and a half years ago Michael Sanders erected the 10-foot cross in his front yard on Palm Street after being saved at Ridgecrest Baptist Church. Since then, he and his wife Jennifer have been participating in numerous church activities including prison ministries and the AWANA program.
Family bears cross in yard, literally
Published Monday, September 21, 2009
VIDALIA — When The Dart landed on Palm Drive in Vidalia on Saturday afternoon Michael Sanders was displaying his faith for all to see.
Mounted to the oak tree in his front yard is an enormous wooded cross Sanders fixed to the tree about two and a half years ago shortly before Christmas.
“I was saved about four years ago,” Sanders said. “And I really just felt called to put (the cross up) I don’t know why.”
But in all the time cross has been up, no one has ever stopped to talk to Sanders about it.
“I wish they would,” he said. “But I think people drive by and they know what it means, I hope they’re getting the message.”
Sanders’ wife Jennifer said while she supported her husband in putting up the cross, she had no idea it would be so big.
The cross stands approximately 10-feet-tall and five-feet across.
“But I like it now,” she said. “I like seeing it out there.”
Sanders said while no one has ever spoken to him about the cross, it also serves as a personal reminder of his faith.
“Sometimes when I get up in the morning, and I walk outside I take a look at it and I remember what it means,” he said. “It’s a good way to start the day.”
And Sanders and his wife have taken their faith beyond the front yard.
They also sponsor a youth program at their church, Ridgecrest Baptist, and minister to inmates in Concordia Parish.
“It’s just a way to serve,” Sanders said. “I think it’s what we’re all called to do.”
Comments
Posted by soldout94 (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 5:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Bold Faith! I
Ecstatic Joy! Oh, the joy of the Lord! A hearts desire to let the world know Jesus lives and is still in the redemption business.
It is always a joy to hear of one who has been saved, by the grace of God, and declares to the world to whom He follows. Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.
Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. Matthew 5:14-16
May you and your household be blessed of God as you live and work out your salvation. Remember, as you live and your "cross" becomes heavy, Jesus promises, especially to be with you always! Take all your burdens to Jesus and leave them at His feet. Jesus, seated on the right hand of God, is able to bear all that you will meet in your faith walk with God.
Heaven shouted when you responded to the invtation to "follow Jesus". I shouted when I read the article and thank God for your salvation.
I thank our God for you, that you are not ashame of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Peace be unto you and your household!
Evangelist Mary Elizabeth Bradley
(A Native Daughter of Natchez)
Posted by thetinman (Keith Reynolds) on September 21, 2009 at 5:57 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Fight the good fight of faith my Brother and Sister.
GOD Bless
Happy Rosh Hashana 5770
JESUS CHRIST is coming soon.
Posted by natchezsouthside (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 6:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)
It means they are keeping away vampires?
Posted by bayou (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 7:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I go to church with Mike and he is a true man of God and has lead a many of men to the lord and he is not a bad singer either!! God bless:)
Posted by Greenfields (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 7:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I thought this story was going to about a family of bears that crossed someone's yard, literally.
Posted by pbnj (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 7:50 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Me too, Greenfields
Posted by grungebob (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 7:52 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Never take The Democrat literally
Posted by bayougal (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 8:04 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Got a good chuckle from that Greenfields! :)
Posted by fraidoclowns (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 8:21 a.m.
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
Posted by SIOUXLADY (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 8:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)
PRAISE BE TO GOD.
ANYONE THAT HAS A NEGATIVE COMMENT... TO HELL WITH THEM LITERALLY.
BE BLESS IN JESUS.
Posted by mommyof3 (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 8:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Micheal and Jennifer are both really good Christian people. Their faith helps me remeber to be the Christain I know I am.
People with negativce comments: Did you stop to think that just maybe it is because you need to take a good look at yourselves? Maybe this article is God's way of trying to touch your lives!
Posted by realtalker123 (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 8:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)
To the Sanders family God Bless you all, stay strong in your faith, because remember as hard as we work to build up the Lord, Satan has his demons are working just as hard if not harder to try and bring him down . And remember those who bear the mark of the beast also know how to use the internet and post negative blogs. GOD IS GOOD ALL THE TIME AND ALL THE TIME GOD IS GOOD!!!!! AMEN
Posted by cchat123 (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 9:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)
How beautiful and personal rewarding for any person to accept the belief of his/her religious faith.
However, this is a bit an over zealous display of his spirtual awakeing.
Do your christian work and it will shine for itself
Posted by Crakalakin (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 9:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)
You know, I was raised in church. Went every Sunday and Wednesday. Went on choir trips, youth retreats, bible school, etc.
That said, I don't get religion at all. I understand good. I understand evil. I do not understand religion and it's associated weirdness, though.
"PRAISE BE TO GOD.
ANYONE THAT HAS A NEGATIVE COMMENT... TO HELL WITH THEM LITERALLY.
BE BLESS IN JESUS."
Maybe that's why I steer clear of religion. It is often nothing more than hate disguised as love.
Posted by Crakalakin (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 9:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Posted by mommyof3-
...People with negative comments: Did you stop to think that just maybe it is because you need to take a good look at yourselves? Maybe this article is God's way of trying to touch your lives!"
I look at people like SIOUXLADY and decide that if God favors her over me simply because she praises Him, he is not a God I wish to be associated with.
Posted by realtalker123 (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 11:08 a.m. (Suggest removal)
To anyone who wants to read this God does not favor one person over another, anymore than he favors the earthworm over the bear, or the birds of the air over the fish in the sea, God gives us free will either to believe in him or not that's whats so good about my God, only thing is God unlike Satan shows us both sides and consequences for the things we do, while Satan only shows us the things that will lead you to him. God loves us all Black,White,Rich,Poor,healthy and the sick. And consider this for all who say they don't believe in God why is he the first one to be called on when trouble times fall upon us, nobody cries out "Satan help me" but just about every man woman and child cries out at one time or the other "God, Lord, Jesus Christ help me!" So it don't matter if you believe in him, he believes in you, me, all of us so much that he gave his only begotten son for our sins. And the cross that the Sanders have in there yard is not to show their works, but to remind us what price was paid for our freedom. After 9/11 everyone was saying God bless America, when that's what he has been doing all along. And if you think that God don't love you or hasn't been apart of your daily life then your sadly mistaken. I for one am not here to push God on anyone just remember he loves you and will be there for you when you are ready for him for some it never happens and for some it happens with the last breath in their body, but he will always be there for you. And once again he gives us freewill what we do with it is up to us. God Bless you all the believers and the none believers we are all the same in his eyes. May you all have a blessed day.
Posted by Greeneyes7 (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 11:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Well said Realtalker123! Remember Jennifer and Michael did not go looking for an article to be written about them. They came to them. It's their property and can so what they want with it. Someone stopped and asked and they were happy to share their story of faith. I admire them. Keep doing what you are doing Sanders!
Posted by Libby (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 11:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I agree with soldout94. My response to being a fanatic - I couldn't think of anyone or anything I would rather be fanatical about other than Jesus Christ. Michael and Jennifer, I pray God's protection for you and His blessings. Jesus said that if you did not deny Him He would not deny you before the Father. What a wonder testimony!
Posted by momof1 (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 11:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)
These are wonderful people who love God, their church and others just the same. These are people who give freely of their time to help others because of their faith in God. They want to reach all of those around them with the gospel of Christ because we will all face judgement and it is not God's will that any should perish but that all would have everlasting life. Michael and Jennifer, remember to stand strong because we all know attacks like this are the worlds way of trying to tear you down. You are serving the Lord and spreading the gospel so do not grow weary.
God Bless you!
Posted by missvidla (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 11:45 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I don't know them but God Bless you for takig a stand for Him
Posted by natchezsouthside (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 11:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I never understood public displays of religion. I keep my faith private. It is no one else's business.
Posted by lsutigerfan (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 12:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)
~Realtalker~I love the way you put that. I very much enjoyed what you just had to say. I think that's the best I've seen it written in a long time!! And it was something I needed to read to remind me of a few things. Thank you.
That tree behind the cross kinda looks like a face.. a nose and an eye.. Kinda cool lookin.
God Bless You Michael and Jennifer. Its nice to see someone who isn't ashamed of their beliefs. :)
Posted by momof1 (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 12:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Southside, the Bible commands us to go out and tell all nations. What better way to start than right in your own neighborhood?
Posted by bellesouth (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 12:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I thought I was going to read about a family of bears crossing the yard. haha
Posted by hollywood (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 12:48 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I thought I would be reading a "bear" sighting in Vidlaia story!!! I have read through all the posts today,, thank you Sanders family.... you have at least got them thinking about Jesus,,, and thinking about him sacrificing himself on a cross,,, you have planted a great "seed" for all who pass by palm street!!
Posted by LOVESNATCHEZ (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 1:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)
If ALL of us showed our love of Jesus Christ publicly, it would be a much better world. Those of you who don't believe in Him, we'll pray for. Those of you (natchezsouthside), who are afraid to spread the Good news publicly, we'll pray for you also. You should all remember; it took one and only one sick, sarcastic atheist to remove prayer from school. That's a shame isn't it? Where were all the christians? We should stand and fight. That poor misguided evil woman may be burning in hell as we speak; unless she asked for forgiveness before dying. Her name was Madelyn Murry O'Hare. Don't you think the name Jesus should be more prevalent?
Posted by drawpaintsing (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 1:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Keep up the faith and the good work, Mr. and Mrs. Sanders. You are beautiful individuals.
Lovesnatchez, the shame didn't come from the athiest who fought to take prayer out of schools, it was the people who allowed her to do so. No wonder people are the way they are now. People are drawing away from God day by day.
Posted by LOVESNATCHEZ (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 2:01 p.m. (Suggest removal)
You are absolutely correct "drawpaintsing". We should be ashamed of ourselves:(
Posted by catahoulatransplant (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 3:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)
My bible says that EVERY knee shall bow and every tongue confess that JESUS CHRIST is lord!!!!!!!
Posted by momof1 (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 3:53 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Just remember, the Bible says we will be persecuted and the negative comments made here are just an example of that in our country.
Posted by DuncanPark (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 4:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Fascinating.
Better not let them see the Peter O'Toole 1972 film called "The Ruling Class". In it his character has a
cross about that size in his bed room and he sleeps
nightly tied to it.
Posted by bellesouth (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 4:26 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Now, now lovesnatchez, if you are going to teach prayer in school then you need to teach prayer from all of the different religions. In this country, we do not impose any one religion on our citizens. Of course, Christians do this all of the time but not with my taxpayer dollars. If you want to teach Christianity, go to Sunday School.
Posted by hellokitty (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 6:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Bellesouth, it is so sad you feel that way. This country was founded on God, the one and only true God. The taxpaying dollars you have comes from God to begin with, Everything belongs to Him. Yes, there are different religions, but only one true Savior (Jesus Christ). I pray that you will come to know Him. The Bible does say that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. You may decide to do it now or it may be when it is too late. But be certain that every one will know that Jesus is the only way, the truth, and the life. Have a blessed day!
Posted by southernwoman (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 8:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I am a Christian.
I believe in separation of church and state.
I do not believe we should have public prayer in public schools.
Or nativity scenes or the ten commandments on public property.
I can pray wherever I am, and do, and we can teach our children to do the same, whatever religion we may be.
I think the cross is beautiful.
Posted by southernwoman (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 8:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)
To those who are Christian parents, I encourage you to pray with and for your children every day before they leave for school.
And please, pray for the kids, teachers, administrators, bus drivers every time you see a school or school bus.
Posted by southernwoman (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 8:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Another suggestion: parents gather at a designated place on a regular basis to pray for your children.
Posted by mamabearof3 (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 9:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Well I have read all the posts and I am also proud of Mike and Jennifer. As for Prayer in school. I never new it was taught to kids in the public school. I thought it was just a time to pray to your god that was set aside. I am so sorry that your god isn't the one and only Jesus Christ. Unfortunatly too many people worship there pocket book and big screen tv's more than they do God and if sunday morning didn't cause them to miss the latest football game or nascar race. or maybe that huge buck. They might end up coming too church and learning a few things about Loving Others.
Posted by windy (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 9:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Greenfields ......... me too lol i thought real bears in there yard
Posted by hollywood (anonymous) on September 21, 2009 at 10:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
bellesouth,, you are wrong,,if our public schools would teach the christian religion,, and pray,, they would be a much better place.
Posted by Crakalakin (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 6:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Posted by hollywood-
"bellesouth,, you are wrong,,if our public schools would teach the christian religion,, and pray,, they would be a much better place."
Every country that teaches one religion in school is an Islamic fascist state. I have no doubt you would love a Christian version of that here. You people are ignorant, dangerous and hateful. It is precisely because of your brand of Christian ignorance and monumental hypocrisy that I'll have nothing to do with your excuse of a religion.
There is nothing that will turn a person off to religion more than the posts here calling for theocracy, discrimination against other religions and for others to burn in hell. What a despicable lot you are.
Posted by LOVESNATCHEZ (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 7:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"Crakalakin", We (Christians), will pray for you today and all other days in the hope that you see the light before it's too late. God bless you.
Posted by Crakalakin (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 7:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)
LOVESNATCHEZ, you should be more concerned about the souls of the likes of "hollywood", "SIOUXLADY" and yourself than me. As I have stated, if your posts here are an example of Christian morals and values, you souls are in far more danger than mine.
Like the worlds Muslims who show tacit approval for terrorism by refusing to speak out against it, you show the same level of approval for these "Christians" verbal hatred of non-Christians by failing to speak out against them.
On tis thread, I have been wished to burn in hell, told that my children should be forced to learn Christianity in school, and had it implied that I am evil because I do not support such. Christians, huh? I'm going to need you to point out the good in that for me. What about a hateful, discriminatory theocracy is so good?
No, I'm fine in my own skin, than you. You keep that religion of yours. I'm intelligent enough to be able to ascertain between good and evil and there isn't anything good about what I'm seeing from some of you.
Posted by humorme (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 8:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)
TACKY! Glad they don't live in my neighborhood
Posted by momof1 (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 9:10 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Crakalakin, there is a big difference between a "religious" person and a Christian. A religious goes to church, sings the songs, and does all of the rituals and things that a Christian is supposed to do but it doesn't go much further than that. You will know a Christian because you will see the love of God through them.
Posted by Preacher (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 9:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The cross, wherever it is displayed always pricks our heart. For those without Jesus, it is offensive. The world will never understand until they know Him personally. For those who try to walk with Jesus, we bow at the foot of the cross in thanks for His sacrifice and acknowledge our personal responsibility of service in His Kingdom.
Posted by momof1 (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 9:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)
humorme, I'm sure you would rather have drug addicts who cook and sell meth in their home in your neighborhood than a family of Christians who love God and their neighbors but happen to have a cross in their yard because they believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and are committed to doing his will which includes helping others.
Posted by Gimmeabreak (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 9:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Mamabear, nice post but you dont have to go to church to learn how to love others, just my opinion.
And momof1, how did you arrive at the conclusion that humorme would rather have meth heads living in his neighborhood than a family of Christians, just curious.
Posted by momof1 (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 9:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Gimme, I was being just as rediculous as humorme was with his comment but I hope I got the point across. These are good people and you would be lucky to have them as neighbors.
Posted by Gimmeabreak (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 9:59 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Okay, I see and yes they do seem like great people and neighbors, I bet they would give you the shirt off of their back.
Posted by Crakalakin (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 10:29 a.m. (Suggest removal)
momof1, I would also like to think that Christians, when you point out that they may be acting a bit "un-Christian", might actually own up to it instead of defaulting to the old "we'll pray for you sinner" when someone expresses some disdain for their hate-filled rhetoric.
Is it Christian to take joy in the thought that some should "burn in Hell"?
Is it Christian to refer to people who don't want their kid preached to at school "evil"?
Is it Christian to lie and say our country was "founded on the one true God"?
You, yourself, stated in an earlier comment that this thread was an example of the "persecution of Christians." I take issue with that. While I see nobody on here advocating doing away with Christians, calling them evil, or wishing them a fiery eternity. I do, on the other hand, see that kind of rhetoric from some so-called "Christians". Who is really doing the persecuting on this thread? Read the whole thread again and then tell me where the hateful rhetoric is coming from.
Posted by Crakalakin (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 10:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)
drawspainting -"People are drawing away from God day by day."
No, they aren't. They are drawing away from his self-anointed messengers, people like you. YOU drive people from God. Your attitude of superiority in all things drives people away. You are hard-headed and will not listen. You inability to tell the truth drives people away. I am sitting here telling you why people tend to leave the church but because the blame rests largely on the shoulders of people like you, you will not hear it. You will not accept any of the responsibility. Your attitudes, your hypocrisy, your hatred of those who do not believe as you do and your assumptions of unquestionable superiority are an extreme turnoff.
There are none so blind as those who refuse to see.
Posted by momof1 (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 10:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)
All I can say to that is that Christians are human just like everybody else. We are not perfect. We let our emotions get the best of us at times. I am just as guilty as the next guy of that. And I'm not condoning it but we are all guilty of it. But I stand by what i said about persecution. Humorme doesn't want these Christians who aren't afraid to stand up for what they believe in living in his neighborhood. Christians have been called names in these posts including fanatics and weird. Fortunately, in this country persecution is nothing like what other Christians experience around the world. We all have our freedom of speach and freedom to worship however we choose.
Posted by LOVESNATCHEZ (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 11:58 a.m. (Suggest removal)
"crackalakin".. OUR NATION WAS FOUNDED ON THE ONE TRUE GOD!
Posted by 2008 (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 12:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Religion is personnel to each person, to pray in private or in church, to each his own;
Religion should be taught at home by children’s parents not in school;
There is a reason why our founding fathers wanted to keep state and church separate;
We are all the children of a higher deity, no matter what religion you belong to;
I have seen way too many hateful comments on the ND blogs by professed Christians to take anything seriously they say here.
Posted by southernwoman (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 12:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"OUR NATION WAS FOUNDED ON THE ONE TRUE GOD!"
Lovesnatchez, if so, we are to love our neighbors as ourselves.
We are to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, take care of the sick and visit the prisoners.
AS A NATION, UNDER GOD.
Posted by fraidoclowns (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 12:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I just realized my earlier comment was removed. After Kevin's column about encouraging conversation and debate, I'm puzzled.
So I re-read the guidelines:
"We want to encourage an open exchange of information and ideas. But if you use inappropriate language or make potentially slanderous or libelous comments or engage in ad hominem attacks on fellow commenters, people mentioned in stories or any employee of The Natchez Democrat, we reserve the right to remove any and/or all of your contributions."
No one was attacked, libeled or slandered. No inappropriate language was used.
My remark that had Jesus been killed 20 rather than 2,000 years ago, this fellow could have put an electric chair in his yard, was to make people see that the symbol on which they base their lives is a symbol not of love, but of torture.
Had this happened in more recent times, we'd be reading about a guy who put that chair or hypodermic needle in his yard.
Instead it's two pieces of wood that someone was nailed to. And that's supposed to teach us love? And, yes, I get it that the Bible says that God loved us so much he gave up his only son, blah, blah, blah, and that's why it's about love.
But if it were, you'd think they'd have chosen something that represented his life rather than his death. Why not a lamb? A star? A hand? A shepherd's staff?
If these blogs are really supposed to encourage people to exchange ideas, why are some so unpalatable they must be stifled? Is this really America where people are free to believe (or not) what they want, talk about it, and exchange ideas?
And you can put up all the big ugly crosses in your yard that you want, crow about it incessantly, type all your "Praise God" messages in capital letters and put scores of exclamation marks after them, but all you're really doing is showing that you're more concerned about what others think of you than what you should actually be in your life -- the old, actions-speak-louder-than words routine. And by actions, I mean how you live, not by how often you go to church, genuflect, tithe and fall down on your face before the big imaginary friend in the sky.
So I guess the electric chair in the front yard is so offensive it should be censored. And if it is, then we've become the enemy we're fighting in Afghanistan. We've become the American Taliban.
Posted by southernwoman (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 1:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I agree fraidoclowns.
I hate halloween and detest the decorations, especially the satanic emblems some display.
Some people may be disappoined that I don't decorate for halloween.
It's a free country. Yes, it is. For now.
Posted by humorme (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 1:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Can't they put up a little cross? Maybe in their window. I respect their convictions but its a little overboard. Its dumb. A 10ft icon doesn't mean anymre or less than a 6in icon if you have faith in the message. Its disrespectful to the other homeowners in the neighborhood not to mention hard to mow around I am sure
Posted by southernwoman (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 2:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)
humorme, I like the way the cross looks. The wood is compatible with the tree and, I think, blends well with the color of the bricks and roof of the house.
I do not believe it interferes with lawn mowing as it appears to be planted right at the base of the tree.
To me, the cross is much more attractive than most of the Christmas decorations, both religious and secular, I see on home lawns. Of course, these are up only for a limited time.
Posted by momof1 (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 2:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)
humorme, the cross has been there for years and none of the neighbors have complained so apparently it is not an issue for the neighbors as it seems to be for you. Maybe they live in a neighborhood of Christians who enjoy it. Either way, it is their property and they have a right to have the cross there as long as it doesn't violate any ordinances.
Posted by southernwoman (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 2:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Or maybe they live in a neighborhood of non-christians who happen to like big wooden crosses.
Posted by notfromnatchez (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 3:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Our Country was not founded founded on the one "true god".
Our Founding Fathers believed in separation of church and state. Thomas Jefferson was a strong support of this measure. He didn't believe in Jesus the Savior. He actually enjoyed reading about Jesus the Philospher.
Posted by notfromnatchez (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 3:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"Either way, it is their property and they have a right to have the cross there as long as it doesn't violate any ordinances."
So if someone put up a Swastika or a pentagram in their yard it would be okay?
Posted by notfromnatchez (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 3:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Looking at the picture again...I started to wonder when they plan on burning the cross.
I am just saying....
Posted by Crakalakin (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 3:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"Posted by LOVESNATCHEZ -
"crackalakin".. OUR NATION WAS FOUNDED ON THE ONE TRUE GOD!"
Just because you type it in all caps does not make it true. Our nation was founded on the rights of man, endowed by a creator. Our founders were men of faith but they were also men of reason.
"Christianity neither is, nor ever was a part of the common law."
-Thomas Jefferson, letter to Dr. Thomas Cooper, February 10, 1814
"The Government of the United States is not in any sense founded upon the Christian Religion."
-1797 the treaty of Tripoli, signed by President Washington, and approved by the Senate of the United States
Posted by Crakalakin (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 3:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Posted by notfromnatchez -
Looking at the picture again...I started to wonder when they plan on burning the cross.
That's not called for in any way. Your bigotry is no more righteous than anyone else's. Those people have done nothing to anyone.
Posted by momof1 (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 3:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Crak, we actually agree on that.
Posted by notfromnatchez (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 3:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Bigotry?
All I said was that it looks like it is ready for something.
Before you call me a white supremacist or something moronic like that....I am NOT white.
Posted by momof1 (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 3:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Bottom line, like Crak said, these people have done nothing to any of you so you should leave them alone. They respect your beliefs, whatever they may be and would probably be the first ones to help you if they saw you in need so please stop making absurd comments and statements about them and what they do at their home.
Posted by humorme (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 4:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I am glad that the cross is not in my neighborhood. All respects to their beliefs. That cross looks so white trash! If you think it looks good your crazy! It looks as trashy as putting styrofoam cups in a chainlink fence to spell Jesus Loves You. The message is great but it looks stupid. GET A CLUE!!!
Posted by momof1 (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 4:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
We thank you for your opinion. And the beautiful thing about this country is that we all have opinions, many different opinions, and we have the freedom to voice those opinions and we should respect each others opinions even though they may be different than our own.
Posted by southernwoman (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 4:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)
humorme, is that what you think?
Posted by happyreader (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 4:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I find myself agreeing with southernwoman and Crakalakin on a point here: I do not believe that public schools should be leading prayers. I am a Christian, and as such I would not want my children being led in a prayer to Buddha, Allah, or any other deity I consider false. And under our Constitution, the state CAN NOT and MUST NOT sanction a particular religion.
Now, students may lead in prayers at student-led events. Adults may lead in prayers at extra events that have voluntary attendance (such as after-school Bible club, etc.). But for the law to require students to sit in a classroom where their teachers will choose what god they must pray to that day is unacceptable and un-American. I will probably catch some flack for saying so, but so be it.
Posted by happyreader (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 4:46 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I do think there's nothing wrong with a person putting a symbol of his or her religious faith up on their own private property. We do still have freedom of speech, for the time.
Posted by joe_shmoe (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 6:17 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Hey Crakalakin.....we are sooo on the same page.
Posted by joe_shmoe (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 6:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I agree with you, too.....happyreader. But if I drove by the cross every day, I would probably not look at it. Something that large would feel like they were forcing their religion on me. I think that religion should be very personal......and private, with like minded individuals.
Posted by joe_shmoe (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 6:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Posted by notfromnatchez (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 3:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"Either way, it is their property and they have a right to have the cross there as long as it doesn't violate any ordinances."
So if someone put up a Swastika or a pentagram in their yard it would be okay?
I love this comment. How many of you (religious types) would have had a problem if the article was about a pentagram instead?
Posted by happyreader (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 8:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)
joe_shmoe, great screen name! lol
I took a major road trip this past summer. I had no choice but to drive past numerous giant billboards that very flagrantly advertised various "adult" shops and services. I found them offensive and distasteful. But they were privately owned, and as long as there were not certain body parts being shown, the owners of these obnoxious, classless signs have a right to display them.
Yes, if I had a neighbor with a pentagram or a swastika in their yard, it would definately give me the heebie-jeebies. No, I would not petition for the city to violate their right to display it.
When you drive past a church with a cross, a statue, or (at Christmas time) a nativity scene, do you feel like that religion is being forced upon you? Many a time I have walked past the beautiful Jewish synagogue and St. Mary's Basilica in downtown Natchez, and I never felt pressured to convert. And those are both humongous symbols of others' faith - much more imposing than a simple wooden cross in a yard.
Posted by freedom42 (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 8:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I love the cross, but more than that I love the symbol for which it stands - Jesus' sacrifice for all of us.
I would not like a pentagram or swastike, BUT it would be the home owners right to have it there. I would not complain, but I would pray. Now I am old enough that in school we had daily prayer and bible readings, and never thought a minute about who we were praying to, because we all knew that we were in a Christian country. These days, we don't know. Our own President has said it is a Muslim country. So it's probably a good thing there is no prayer in public schools. The kids can pray silently to whoever they believe in. And it is a good idea for Christians to pray for the schools, students, teachers, and other parents.
Posted by fraidoclowns (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 9:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Freedom42, would you please show me where our president said this is a Muslim country? Good grief. Where do you people get this stuff?
And as far as people having a right to express their beliefs, yes, the guy has a right to put that big ugly cross in his yard. But I also have the right to say I think it's idiotic. He has the same right to say I'm idiotic if he wants to.
But my original comment was removed, which makes me wonder if all men's rights are really equal or if some are more equal than others.
Posted by USMBOY (anonymous) on September 22, 2009 at 11:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)
i would like to see that info too.
Posted by hitchcock (anonymous) on September 23, 2009 at 6:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)
freedom42
You are right, Obama did say that. This is the quote in found on the internet:
June 2, 2009 in Cairo
“And one of the points I want to make is that if you actually took the number of Muslim Americans, we’d be one of the largest Muslim countries in the world,”
Posted by fraidoclowns (anonymous) on September 23, 2009 at 8:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Since so many of you obviously have difficulty with English, let me tell you what that means.
Obama isn't saying we are a Muslim nation. He's saying there are a lot of Muslims in this country.
And he's saying that if you were to gather up all the Muslims in this country and call THAT a country, it would be one of the largest Muslim countries in the world.
He is NOT saying that this is a Muslim country.
From www.religioustolerance.org
Number of Muslims in the U.S.
Estimates of the number of Muslims in North America range from a little over one million adults to seven million adults and children. One cause of the disagreement appears to be related to the percentage of Muslim immigrants:
a. Who have abandoned Islam since they arrived in the US, or
b. Who still consider themselves to be Muslims, but who do not participate in mosque activities.
Ethnic origins of Muslims in the U.S.:
According to the "Faith Communities Today" report, the ethnic origins of regular participants in U.S. mosques are as follows:
South Asian (Pakistani, Indian, Bangladeshi, Afghani) = 33 %
African-America = 30 %
Arab = 25 %
Sub-Saharan African = 3.4 %
European (Bosnian, Tartar, Kosovar, etc.) = 2.1 %
White American = 1.6 %
Southeast Asian ( Malaysian, Indonesian, Filipino) = 1.3 %
Caribbean = 1.2 %
Turkish = 1.1 %
Iranian = 0.7 %
Hispanic/Latino = 0.6 %
Posted by drawpaintsing (anonymous) on September 23, 2009 at 8:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The president didn't say that we were a Muslim country. He said that "if we took the numbers of Muslim Americans" we would be a Muslim country. "IF" is a strong word. Just like we take the Bible and interpret it to our own understanding, and go by that without opening ourselves to see the same things in other ways and views. That one statement that Obama made be can seen and viewed a lot of different ways, but "IF" is the key word. So do we take the number of Muslim to determine if America was a Muslim country? I don't think so. Whether is or not, I know what I am. That's the problem with people now. So many people are so hung up on what everybody else does and whateverybody else thinks, that they don't take the time to think about things in different aspects. Maybe they are afraid of not being accepted. This is just the way I see it, but I may be wrong, and wouldn't get mad if no one agrees with me. But at least open your minds to things and think things through. The perfect example is how the media can take a story and totally twist it by using one word. That would affect how the public sees it, and live by it. More than likely, the outcome and the publics views would be totally different if they said it in a different way.
But, this is just my opinion.
Posted by Hardcorps (anonymous) on September 23, 2009 at 11:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)
More power to the Sanders'. They have their "sign". They didn't push it on anyone. Holy crap! Some of you want to push your ideas on everyone else. My worship is private. Shut yer face up.
Posted by grungebob (anonymous) on September 23, 2009 at 3:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)
This is really sad. We have managed to inject race, religon and politics into a human interest story concerning one family's faith.
Imagine what we could have done with one about bears crossing the road.
Posted by southernwoman (anonymous) on September 23, 2009 at 4:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)
G-bob, makes sense to me.
A story about a cross begs for religious comments.
In Natchez, a story about anything generates racial comments.
Race and religion are bigger forces in politics right now than they need to be, in my opinion.
Posted by livejo (anonymous) on September 23, 2009 at 10:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
So some of you think this is a tacky looking cross??? Maybe they should have gone a little bit more realistic. Do you have any idea how ugly the orgional cross was? It was an instrument of torture. It was not polished to a high shine or engraved with lovely scroll work to look appealing. It was a place of shame. It was the precious blood of the One true perfect lamb of God that was spilled upon that cross that is the only true path to salvation. If you are truly saved, you know what the cross means. Thank God for that Old Rugged Cross and the sacrifice made upon it for all who will only accept it. Thank You Mike and Jennnifer. If I still lived on Palm street I think I would have to put up a cross in my front yard too. It sure got people talking. I have never seen so many comments on one story.
Posted by crackbaby (anonymous) on September 23, 2009 at 10:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Just one honest fact; If everyone lived, every day, with the true love and presence of Christ in our hearts, there would be no need for the presence of police in our society!!!! LOL
Post a comment (Terms of Use Policy)
(Requires free registration.)