Quote:
Originally Posted by Textcritic
How many people who select crosses for their gravesites or those whom they love actually understand the history of the symbol? For them, while it is probably religiously rooted in some sense, is its meaning precisely what is conveyed in the display of a cross on a church steeple?
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Probably not the same, but as you say any meaning it does have originates within Christianity.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Textcritic
I think that this actually reinforces my point, which in part says that the origins of any given symbol do not necessarily transfer any meaning to their ongoing use. Words are symbols. The meanings of words change over time to the point that their earlier meaning becomes completely irrelevant. I am arguing that the same holds true for all symbols, including religious ones.
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And I agree, I wouldn't argue that, it's just a case of has the meaning changed enough, become generic enough, that it didn't cross whatever line there is. For me it doesn't (I think roadside memorials are a bad idea altogether), the judge I guess thought it did (which surprises me). The crosses were 12 feet tall I guess, the association is a secular one, etc.
It'd be interesting to read the full judgment, here's something about the arguments:
http://www.becketfund.org/files/7cb25.pdf
EDIT: Full text, haven't read it yet:
http://orneryconservative.blogspot.c...ncan-text.html