Nativity scene won’t be displayed at Florida Capitol

Author: the associated press
Published:
Florida governor’s mansion and state capitol building. Credit MGN

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) – The group that installed a manger scene in the Florida Capitol rotunda the past two years won’t this year.

Florida Prayer Network President Pam Olsen said Friday in a letter emailed to the media that she decided it wasn’t the right time to have another debate over religious displays in the Capitol.

She cited the feelings of grief, anger and fear created by shootings and attacks in the United States and abroad. Olsen said not setting up the display would be a greater show of peace.

Past nativity scenes have spurred protests, including a Festivus pole made of beer cans, a Flying Spaghetti Monster tribute and a satanic display.

Olsen said she isn’t giving in to the protests and will consider the display in future years.

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