Board To Weigh Future Of Religious Displays On Town Property

SOUTHOLD, NY — A new nativity placed on display in Southold Town, meant to "keep the Christ in Christmas," may not be back next year — town officials have discussed the possibility that after this year, no religious displays will be allowed on town property.

In past years, Southold Town Supervisor Scott Russell said an understated Christmas tree, decorated with some lights only, had been put up in the gazebo at Silversmith's Corner.

This year, the Knights of Columbus Marian Council 3852 asked to erect a nativity scene at the site.

'They were told that based on concerns regarding the growing interests of placing religious displays in the park, this would be the last year. While such displays are allowed, the town would have to allow non-religious displays in order to maintain a neutral role. The board doesn't want to see such good intentions become a flashpoint of community conflict ,which can be a very likely outcome in time."

The nativity was sited by a North Fork group working tirelessly to "Keep the Christ in Christmas" this holiday season.

The Knights of Columbus' Marian Council 3852, located in Cutchogue, has placed radio advertisements in recent weeks to share their message. Next, they secured a spot for a nativity scene at Silversmith's Corner, located on Route 25 and Youngs Avenue in Southold.

"With a lot of hard work and logistics, the scene was set up earlier today," Grand Knight Brian Bannon said Friday.

Bannon gave special thanks to Henry Santacroce, "who worked diligently on securing the permission of the Southold town board," along with the Southold Town Attorney Paul DeChance, Deacon Joe Tumbarello, who arranged procurement of the figures from St. William the Abbot RC Church — and the transport and set -up crew Mark Solo, Giacomo Mucaria and Charles Barkley.

The Jesus figure was placed with a special blessing and prayer by the Barkley family, he said.

The Knights of Columbus also reached out to help the North Fork's needy recently.

"During this time of supporting those in need, during Monday's meeting our council continued its commitment to the North Fork Parish Outreach with a $2,500 donation and $500 donation to Maureen's Haven," Bannon said. "I personally look forward to all the hard work the Marian Council and the Columbiettes will achieve in the 70th year of our council to our parishes and community."