Contact: Rev. Patrick Mahoney, 540-538-4741

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Nov. 28, 2012 /Christian Newswire/ -- Recently  Santa Monica and the U. S. District Federal Court banned Nativity Scenes and all "unattended displays" in Palisades Park.

However, there are no prohibitions on "Live Nativity Displays."

Photo: The Live Nativity Display in front of the Supreme Court from a past project

The group plans to hold a news conference to discuss their plans on Thursday, November 29 at 2:00 P.M.

The news conference will be in front of Santa Monica City Hall which is located at 1685 Main Street.

The goal of the organizations is to ensure that a Nativity Scene continues to be displayed in Palisades Park after nearly 60 continuous years as well as embracing religious freedom, the First Amendment and the message of Christmas.

The "Live Nativity Display" campaign is being led by the Christian Defense Coalition and Faith and Action which are both based in Washington, D.C. along with local Southern California Christians and pastors.

The effort is being sponsored by "The Nativity Project" which encourages the faith community to display Nativity Scenes in public places across America.

They will be conducting a "Live Nativity Display" in front of the United States Capitol Building and Supreme Court next as well is in New York City in front of the FOX News Studios.

Rev. Patrick J. Mahoney, Director of the Christian Defense Coalition, states;

"Sadly, we are seeing an erosion of expressions of faith in the public square. This is especially true during the Christmas Season.  We must be constantly reminded that the Constitution promises freedom 'of' religion not freedom 'from' religion.

"After nearly 60 continuous years, it is critical that a Nativity Scene remain in Palisades Park.  We must continue to fight for religious freedom and the First Amendment as well as embracing the powerful message of Christmas which is; 'Peace on Earth.  Goodwill toward man.'

"We believe that this 'Live Nativity Display' meets all the requirements of the Santa Monica City Council and the Federal Court."

Jeff White, Youth Pastor of Lake Gregory Community Church, adds;

"As a youth pastor, I often teach the importance of religious freedom and the need to see those freedoms are protected.

"By setting up this 'Live Nativity Display' in Palisades Park, we ensure for future generations the right for everyone to express their faith traditions in the public square free from government intimidation or harassment."

For more information or interviews call:
Rev. Patrick Mahoney at 540.538.4741