Clergy response disappointing

I was surprised and disappointed by the view that some of the clergy of Everett have taken on the Ten Commandments monument. Who better to stand up to the attempt by one person, supported by the ACLU and the Americans United for Separation of Church and State, to have the landmark removed than the men and women of the “cloth?” Instead, if I read it correctly, The Herald reported through the clergy’s letter to the editor that the main concern expressed was the amount of money it would take to defend the location of the monument. Are we selling our heritage in the face of an effort to move a monument that speaks to the way every person should conduct their lives?

I believe the debate on this subject will bring forth the better nature of our citizens and show that the Ten Commandments are meant to guide us. Certainly the guidance is something that is needed today as much as at any time in our history. I would be ashamed to stand before the ghosts of our forefathers and report that I had asked the town fathers of Everett to remove this monument. Are we to be “sunshine patriots” and not stand in defense over our heritage? My hat is off to the leaders of Everett. They are truly leaders in the best sense of the word, and I encourage them to stand fast and I expect to hear from them that they are the champions in the cause.

Charles Van Pelt

Monroe