Christians rally at Capitol

Event in Rotunda celebrates Christian Heritage Week

By Diane Huber | The Olympian • Published October 27, 2008

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OLYMPIA – Faith and patriotism came together Sunday in the state Capitol Rotunda for a ceremony that recognized the country's Christian roots.

About 200 people from various denominations attended the two-hour event that concluded Christian Heritage Week, recognized by a proclamation by Gov. Chris Gregoire.

The ceremony opened with the Washington Army National Guard Honor Guard and included historical pledges and hymns that date to the country's founding. Several ministers also lead sermons about bringing Christians of all denominations together in a divided world.

"The message today is unity. We're trying to bring Christians to become one, like they're supposed to be," said Dr. Karen Johnson, an Olympia minister who coordinated the event.

This is the second year the local faith community has had a ceremony at the Capitol in recognition of Christian Heritage Week, meant to show how Christianity has shaped U.S. history. Washington is one of many states to show recognition.

Gregoire's proclamation quotes the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence and says: "Our country was founded in part because of the desire of people to have the freedom to worship as they please."

The ceremony concluded a week of activities, including daily music at the Capitol, historical talks and a youth art and essay contest.

Participants said having a religious ceremony at the Capitol was symbolic of that freedom.

"It was an opportunity to thank God for the freedom to worship in this nation, and remember the heritage Christianity has played in the founding of this nation," said participant Tim Taylor of Renton, co-founder of Watchman Ministries International.

At least two state lawmakers — Sen. Dan Swecker, R-Rochester, and Rep. Kirk Pearson, R-Monroe — also participated in Sunday's event.

The ceremony included a reading of every state in the nation while community members presented each state's flag. The flags were waved from the balconies looking over the rotunda as the crowd sang "God Bless America."

In addition, the ceremony incorporated several performances, including nine youth members of the Faith Assembly of Lacey's Krosstix group.

"It's important for people to know that it's OK for people to be Christian, and to be proud of it," said 14-year-old Chris Arjona, a Tumwater Middle School eighth grader.

Some in the crowd held their hands skyward during the hymns; others had tears in their eyes.

"It was wonderful," Ann Clifton of Olympia said of the ceremony. "We want freedom of religion in America, not freedom from religion. I feel we have to have the right to choose our faith."

Diane Huber covers education and features for The Olympian. She can be reached at 360-357-0204 or dhuber@theolympian.com.