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If the flag goes, he goes
Jul 23, 2007
I am writing concerning the article on the presence of a national flag in a United Methodist sanctuary.
To most UM congregations in our area, the presence of the American flag in our churches implies respect for the country that allows us the freedom to have our churches and to worship as we please.
My home church -- Wesley United Methodist Church of Stockton -- was built by the veterans of the Civil War. Our stained-glass windows were dedicated to family members killed in that conflict.
These people felt a need to have a Methodist church in this new town. They respected this country and they respected God. These were the days of "the Bible on the table and the flag on the wall." The flag indicates freedom, nothing else. Many from our congregation have served when called. I am one of those.
Perhaps the Rev. Childress would be more comfortable as a Jehovah's Witness. They also don't believe in showing respect to the country that allows their practice of religion.
I am a lifetime member of the Methodist church, and at 81, have lived through many changes. I have watched many members leave with those changes. Most of them have searched for more fundamental churches whose beliefs more closeley related to what our church taught when they came into it. Those of us whose ministers taught love, service, salvation and the Bible have flourished.
As for our flag, the symbol of freedom -- when it leaves our sanctuary, I leave with it.
Sincerely,
Mason L. Beard
Stockton, Ill.
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