‘Keep Christ in Christmas’ Billboards Appear in Central Arkansas

Keep Christ in Christmas Billboards Appear in Central Arkansas

As the holiday season approaches, residents of Central Arkansas are noticing a new addition to their side of the road: billboards advocating for a return to the true spirit of Christmas. The “Keep Christ in Christmas” campaign, led by the Knights of Columbus, aims to promote a more authentic and less materialistic approach to the season.

The idea for the billboards was born out of a desire to counterbalance societal shifts that often push Christmas celebrations towards a more secular and consumerist direction. Members of the Knights of Columbus, particularly Larry Witherspoon, felt compelled to remind people of the core values of Christmas—values centered around faith and family. The initial campaign using billboards during June to highlight the Sacred Heart of Jesus served as a precursor to the current initiative[3].

Beneath the Surface: What it Means to Keep Christ in Christmas

Behind the simple phrase “Keep Christ in Christmas,” there lies a deeper message. The campaign seeks to reorient the focus of the holiday season away from commercialization and material gifts. Father Balaraju Desam, pastor of Immaculate Conception Church in North Little Rock, emphasizes that the heart of Christmas belongs to Jesus—someone who brings hope and joy to the world. This reminder comes at a time when many people find themselves overwhelmed by the frantic pace and consumerist atmosphere that often accompanies the holiday season[3].

The Community’s Response

The community has shown significant support for the “Keep Christ in Christmas” initiative. Parishes across Arkansas are working together to make sure their voices are heard through these billboards. Many have donated funds to sponsor their local billboard, ensuring that every Catholic parish has an opportunity to participate. With multiple pricing options available thanks to special arrangements with Lamar Outdoor Advertising, the cost is manageable for many churches, making it possible for them to join the campaign[3].

A Renewed Spirit for the Holidays

These billboards serve as more than just a visual reminder; they are catalysts for genuine reflection on what Christmas means. They encourage people to pause amidst the hustle and bustle and contemplate the true essence of the holiday. As Shawn Stane, a board member of Ark of Heaven Media Group, notes, “Just to pass by and see the simple phrase ‘Keep Christ in Christmas’ is a nice reminder in our secular society.” It’s an effort that seeks not to sell anything but to sell a message—the soul of Christianity that Jesus embodies[3].

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *