19 December 2011

For Immediate Release

Vandalised Billboard Makes a Statement of Its Own

Our billboard this Christmas pointed to the social circumstances of a young, poor, unmarried mother in 1st Century Palestine. It would have taken tremendous faith and courage to withstand the prejudice of her critics. We hoped that people would think of those in similar circumstances, and respond with kindness.

Our billboard was ripped on Saturday evening by a group intolerant of any views on Mary except their own. Further, they made statements that this is the ‘devil’s work’. There is a sad and sick history in Christianity of demonising those you disagree with. It is of concern that such prejudice is present in New Zealand.

We have decided not to replace the original billboard but let the current ripped one remain as a reminder of both the intolerance in Mary’s society and in our own.

Thank you to the many people who have supported us, those who have exchanged views on our website and Facebook page, and those who have thought again about Mary, Jesus mother, this Christmas. Shalom.

ENDS