A heated dispute has erupted in the peaceful town of Ocean Grove, New Jersey, over the construction of a cross-shaped pier by the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association. The decision made by this Christian group has left many residents feeling their religious freedom is being compromised.
Resurrecting Faith After Hurricane Sandy
In the wake of the devastating Hurricane Sandy that struck in 2012, the Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association sought to rebuild their Christian ideals by constructing a pier that symbolizes their faith. Although the project is privately funded and publicly accessible, it lacks official approval due to undisclosed funds. This has raised concerns among some residents about the intrusion of Christian values into state matters.
Critics Express Concerns
Those who oppose the construction of the $1.3 million, 500-foot long pier have labeled it as an act of “Christian bullying.” They worry about the implications it may have on the town and are urging officials to intervene. As a result, there are discussions about potentially delaying the scheduled opening on December 7, 2022.