Dear Editor,

Atheism: a disbelief in the existence of deity; the doctrine that there is no deity. Religion: a cause, principle, or system of beliefs held to with ardor and faith.

Both of these definitions are from the Merriam-Webster Dictionary. So, by definition that would make atheism a religion. If atheism is a religion, then the removal of Christian symbols from public places is essentially official promotion of atheism over Christianity. That being the case, I would like to call on all Christians to stand up against atheism as the official, state-sponsored religion.

This is in response to Sonoma County California’s removal of stars and angels atop government Christmas trees two days before Christmas based solely on the complaint of one single man, who claims that these symbols are “extremely offensive” and part of the “cult” of Christianity.

It recently occurred to me how sad it is, in this politically correct society, that I am always amazed to see a business with an outdoor sign brave enough to admit to their belief in God at the risk of alienating customers. Public displays of faith have become the exception rather than the rule. And you wonder why we are where we are.