To the editor: I would like to express my disappointment in the level of discernment exhibited by the editorial staff of the Covington News in publishing Beth McAfee-Hallman's column of Nov. 27. The content was disrespectful, offensive and not in keeping with the community-oriented newspaper that the Covington News appears to be. That said, I respect the importance of freedom of speech and freedom of the press. But since there was no disclaimer following or preceding this disturbing column, stating that the opinions of the author were not those of the owners and editors of the Covington News, are we to assume that the author's beliefs (or lack of them) are widely upheld at your paper?

To the Author: Since you have declared that you're not a Christian, you're really not celebrating Christmas at this time of year. Christmas is indeed the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, also known as the Son of God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace, The Savior of the World and My Lord.

Based on your own description of your holiday observances, perhaps you're officially celebrating Brumalia. This was a Roman winter solstice festival (honoring Bacchus, the god of wine) and it was filled with much merriment and drinking. It generally lasted a month and ended on December 25. Sounds like you may be more familiar with the B-man than with Jesus.

If you and Jesus do indeed go way back, I'm sorry that you lost sight of him somewhere along the way. I pray for your sake you'll find him again. He'll be waiting to welcome you back with open arms and all the love and mercy and grace you could desire.

Frances Redick
Oxford

Editor's note: The views of our columnists do not necessarily reflect the views of The Covington News, its employees or its affiliates.