Cross controversy saddens reader

To the editor:

Regarding The Gazette articles 'National group objects to cross in Iowa park” (Aug. 22) and 'Knoxville becomes epicenter debate over religious symbol” (Aug. 29).

It saddens me, as a Christian, that the cross our Lord and Savior suffered and died on, is causing such a controversy. God died for everyone who believes and everyone who doesn't. Since the artist, Al Larsen, did not intend it to be a 'religious” cross, but a cross that represents the cross symbol on graves of those who have died serving our country. Their lives given for all. Those who agreed with the reason for the war and those who did not agree on the reason for the military action. But, died these soldiers did, for our country the United States of America.

Arlington National Cemetery is covered with white crosses. As well as other national cemeteries across this nation. These cemeteries are on federal land and belong to this country and its people. Would these same people protesting this one white cross in Knoxville, want all white crosses removed? I'm not only proud to be a Christian, but I'm also proud to be an American. How many times do we need to say this country stands for freedom? It is freedom of religion, not freedom from religion. What if it were a symbol of some other religion? Then they would be calling it discrimination. Christians, it is time to stand up.

Barbara McCreight

Lowden