New Jersey’s Toms River. Santa Claus and Mayor Dan Rodrick led the yearly lighting of the Christmas tree outside Town Hall on Friday night, marking the official start of the holiday season in Toms River.
A festive addition to the township’s customs, this year’s event included a new addition to the holiday display: a nativity scene placed in the downtown area close to Town Hall.
Rodrick stated that there has been a movement in America in recent years to remove Jesus and religion from the holiday, and that we shouldn’t be scared to wish one another a Merry Christmas or to enjoy the holiday’s actual purpose. We are no longer scared, and no one should be scared to celebrate Christmas and its genuine meaning, which is a commemoration of Jesus’ birth.
When questioned, Rodrick replied he had no idea why the nativity scene had not been included in the Christmas show by earlier mayors.
The Christmas tree was lit in front of hundreds of locals, who also enjoyed choral performances from Donovan Catholic High School. The cool December air was filled with the joy of the holidays as students sung Christmas carols.
During the ceremony, Mayor Rodrick remarked, “This is a great way to unite our community and celebrate the Christmas season.” I would want to express my gratitude to everyone who attended and helped to make today such a joyful and wonderful occasion.
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