Well, they’re at it again!  I’m certain that most of us would have never believed that saying or advertising Merry Christmas would be under so much public scrutiny or more importantly be offended by it, but they’re at it again.  Patchogue (pach-og), NY has been has been the proud home of the “Patchogue Christmas Boat Parade” which is a parade of lighted boats on the Long Island River.  

This year however, the Greater Patchogue Foundation removed "Christmas" from the parade's name.  The change was made after some residents complained that the name wasn't inclusive enough.  It is now named the “Patchogue Boat Parade of Lights”.  Apparently, the usual crowd of approximately 1,500 people was trimmed down to around 1,000 spectators this year.  

This decision is a perfect example of how the tail is trying to wag the dog here in America.  

I find it amazing how a few secular progressives that do not believe in Christ can be permitted to sway a nation of believers.  

Almost everything in this great nation that we collectively adopt is decided upon by a majority vote.  Why do we allow a hand full of non-believers throw the beliefs of the majority under the bus?  

Christians should clearly focus on the true meaning of Christmas, which is to celebrate the birth of our savior, but I become very concerned when the very foundation of our heritage is being threatened by a few fanatics.  

An e-mail that I received recently, pointed out that if the people that want to take “Christ” out of Christmas and “In God We Trust” off of our currency, should not take the day off as a holiday.  

Our government employees should work on the 25th of December just like any other day.  Fortunately we are not there yet, but this is a good example of some of the silliness that we face as a nation today.  

As a society, we are often reminded that “We reap what we sow”.   We allow prayer and the “Ten Commandments” to be removed from our schools and government buildings, but we still expect our kids to do the right thing.  

I also learned today that our newly elected President has opted to go to the gym on Sundays instead of church.  Apparently, he has not been to church since he was elected our 44th President.  

Many of us can come up with a million excuses not to go to church, but I pray that on Thursday that you remembered to give thanks to the Lord for all of the many blessings he has provided us.  If you didn’t, it’s not too late!  

Oh, by the way, here in Russell County, we say “Merry Christmas”.

May God bless…

Ron Phillips