“We do not weave the web of life; we are merely a strand in it. Whatever we do to the web, we do to ourselves.” ­– Chief Si’ahl Seattle Suquamish Leader.

There is a new front in the “War on Christmas.” The Stoneleigh P, an upscale bar in Dallas, Texas, is limiting play of Mariah Carey’s “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” with suggestive lyrics, “Santa can’t make me happy with a toy on Christmas, so I just want you for my own, baby.” The song is number one on Billboard’s 100 Greatest Holiday Hits. Which further demonstrates how provocative and useless the “War on Christmas,” really is — it obscures the real tragedy, the loss of faith and the erosion of our religious tradition.

The Association of Religion Data Archivists reports that in 2010 the ratio of religious adherents to the population of Alpena County dropped from 77.9% in 2000 to 53.7% in 2010, a loss of 8,497. Church is important not just for the spiritual fulfillment of the individual; people of faith understand the need for connectivity and often participate in other community-based activities. Loss of the faithful is a national trend not confined to the local area.

Faith is a feeling of complete trust and confidence, and to have that, some need the spiritual assurance of an all-knowing Creator God. For those that profess no faith, it is limited to what has been scientifically proven. The conflict between faith and reason was the basis for the trial of Galileo Galilei in the 17th century for teaching the Copernican Model of Planetary Motion contrary to doctrine that the sun revolved around the earth.

Mega-historian Yuval Noah Harari has studied the breadth of human history and believes religions, the collective beliefs and rituals of individuals, are critical to the present and future of humankind. He reminds us that we rely on others for the basics of food, water, and shelter, the continued management of resources. Faith fosters confidence for the future with a sense of connectiveness to the past, and with others.

In a recent column, author Mitch Albom sees the internet becoming a new realm for fervent believers, who can post self-righteous cynicism, getting instant recognition. Without being subject to edit or review, content is not constrained by any standard, grammar, accuracy, or sensibility. There certainly must be ramifications over time of being in constant contact with personal electronic devices; his worry is that religious faith cannot compete.

Leadership is important in ending the “War on Christmas” and restoring our faith. The tradition of delivering a White House Christmas message began with “Silent Cal,” a man who was loud and proud about his faith. Named for the French theologian, John Calvin, the 30th President of the United States was open about his faith and what it meant to him — a guide for living, support when indecisive, and comfort in sorrow. The principles of his faith set the standards for honesty and moral character that he demanded of himself and expected of others.

Those who are serious about the “War on Christmas” will begin attending services Sunday, Jan. 2, 2022, at a church of your choice. You are assured there will be room in the pew! Merry Christmas!

“Christmas is not a time nor a season, it is a state of mind. To cherish peace and goodwill, to be plenteous in mercy, is to have the real spirit of Christmas.” — President John Calvin Coolidge, Christmas Message, 1927.