Nativity Scene Debuts at U.S. Capitol with Prayer, Carols, and the Biblical Christmas Story Thanks to Courageous Christian Group
A Nativity scene graced the steps of the U.S. Capitol, marking the first time in the nation’s history that such a display of Christian faith was showcased at the heart of the nation’s government.
This landmark event was made possible by Rev. Patrick Mahoney, director of the D.C.-based Christian Defense Coalition, who triumphed in a federal court case earlier this year, according to The Lion.
The court ruled that the Capitol steps are a public forum, affirming that peaceful demonstrations, including religious expressions, are protected under the First Amendment.
The victory came after years of struggle, including Mahoney’s arrest in 2021 during a prayer vigil.
In 2021, Mahoney sought to hold his annual Good Friday vigil on Capitol grounds, but his request was denied under restrictive policies implemented after the events of January 6. Represented by the Center for American Liberty, Mahoney filed a complaint, arguing that the policies effectively created a “no-speech zone” around the Capitol.
The case reached U.S. District Judge James E. Boasberg, an Obama appointee, who initially denied Mahoney’s motions. However, the tide turned in May, when a federal court affirmed the rights of individuals to assemble peacefully and express their beliefs on public property, including the Capitol steps.
“Between now and the inauguration we are only allowed five people on the steps at the same time,” Rev. Mahoney told Susan Berry of The Lion.
Rev. Patrick Mahoney said in a press release:
“We are so very thankful for the opportunity to share the joyful and powerful message of Christmas at the steps of the United States Capitol. In a hurting and wounded world, there is no more redemptive and healing message than the Christmas story.
“The hopeful declaration of ‘Peace on earth, goodwill toward man,’ is one that needs to be heard and embraced by all Americans.
“The words spoken by the prophet Isaiah centuries ago are still relevant for us today. ‘For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.’
“This is also a significant victory for religious freedom and the 1st Amendment. This event has ended and won the war on Christmas in the public square. For if Christmas can be celebrated and displayed in the most powerful public square in America, it can be celebrated publicly everywhere.”
On Tuesday, Rev. Mahoney displayed the Nativity scene at the Capitol for the first time.
“The Capitol behind me, and you see the Holy Family, the shepherds, and the wise men—and, of course, Jesus, Mary, and Joseph. We’re hosting the first-ever Nativity display and Christmas carol sing-along from the steps of the United States Capitol. Our message is clear: Joy to the world, peace on Earth, goodwill toward men. We hope you join us. God bless.”
Bringing the Holy Family and the wisemen to the steps of the United States Capitol for the first ever Christmas Carol Sing from the steps of the Capitol! #JoyToWorld #PeaceOnEarth #Christmas #Nativity #ChristTheSaviorIsBorn pic.twitter.com/7PSPetNCt5
— Rev. Patrick Mahoney (@revmahoney) December 10, 2024
In an X post, Rev. Mahoney wrote, “7 months ago, we would’ve been arrested for having this Nativity Display on the steps of the US Capitol. However, we won an historic federal lawsuit through the incredible work of the Center for American Liberty which allowed us on the steps!”
7 months ago, we would’ve been arrested for having this Nativity Display on the steps of the US Capitol. However, we won an historic federal lawsuit through the incredible work of the Center for American Liberty which allowed us on the steps! @Liberty_Ctr @pnjaban… pic.twitter.com/0yObLMhCvw
— Rev. Patrick Mahoney (@revmahoney) December 11, 2024
“O Come Let Us Adore Him!” Katie singing this beautiful Christmas Carol on the steps of the United States capital with our nativity display out front. #JoyToTheWorld #PeaceOnEarth #OComeLetUsAdoreHim #Christmas @mercedesschlapp @mschlapp pic.twitter.com/lM3uMZsLpZ
— Rev. Patrick Mahoney (@revmahoney) December 10, 2024
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