“…but the people who know their God shall stand firm and take action.” –Daniel 11:32 (ESV)
Dear Friends:
The Freedom from Religion Foundation (FFRF), an atheist organization based in Wisconsin, is at it again in New Mexico – this time, in the City of Hobbs!
Last December, we wrote about FFRF and mentioned some of their recent attacks on religious expression, including their efforts to prohibit prayer before meals at a local senior center and have a nativity removed in the Town of Belen. In January, however, FFRF turned their attention to the City of Hobbs. The group successfully lobbied to have decorative crosses removed from a wall at New Mexico Junior College and also complained about the City’s sponsorship of a Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. event because the event featured gospel singers. At the same time, they asked the City Commission to remove a Ten Commandments monument located outside City Hall, citing separation of church and state.
What happened next was nothing short of extraordinary! Within days of the initial complaint and request to have the monument removed, the faith-based community rallied together to support its preservation. A Facebook page titled “Freedom FOR Religion” was created and quickly garnered over 1,800 members! And last week, when the City Commission accepted public comment regarding the matter, over 200 locals packed the Commission Chamber to offer support and encourage their elected officials to keep the monument in place.
To these engaged citizens, we say thank you for standing firm AND taking action! This story serves as a powerful example of what can happen when the community of faith rallies together to defend religious expression and push back against the radical infringement of secularism. At Family Policy Alliance of New Mexico, we call this “Unleashing Citizenship,” and we hope other communities across our state will follow Hobbs’ example. FFRF has made it clear that they are on a mission to remove all public displays with religious components, so do not be surprised if they are in your town, village, or city next.
Something to think about: In addition to attacking public prayers and religious displays, FFRF frequently targets elected officials. Last year, the group sent a threatening letter to our Lt. Governor, John Sanchez, in which they ridiculed him for attending a National Day of Prayer event and for wishing New Mexicans a “Happy Easter.”
Something to pray for: Please pray for the City of Hobbs and its citizens as they navigate this issue. We also encourage you to pray for FFRF and its members. In spite of our strong opposition to their efforts, as Christians, we acknowledge our calling to love and pray for them at every turn.
Something to do: It has been a couple months since I have personally asked for your financial support, and the truth is, your gift could not come at a more critical time. We are in the process of training leaders, educating and motivating pastors, and mobilizing citizens to take action and capitalize on the opportunities before us in 2018. This requires resources, so would you please consider supporting our efforts today by making a recurring monthly donation to our ministry? You can do so by clicking here.
Thank you for your support and prayers!
Vince Torres
Executive Director
