At the news conference the groups will also discuss the controversy surrounding the removal of God from Capitol flag certificates.

Contact: Christian Defense Coalition, 202-547-1735, 540-538-4741 cell

WASHINGTON, Oct. 11 /Christian Newswire/ -- The Christian Defense Coalition and Faith and Action, the organizers of "The Nativity Project" campaign, will discuss their plans at a news conference on Thursday, October 11, at 11:00 A.M.

News Conference Details ---

When: Thursday, October 11, 11:00 A.M.

Where: On the lower western plaza of the United States Capitol building.

Why:  To launch "The Nativity Project" a national effort that encourages citizens to set up Nativity Displays outside of public buildings, city halls and state capitols during the Christmas season.  The groups will also discuss the controversy surrounding the removal of God from Capitol flag certificates.

Rev. Patrick J. Mahoney, Director of the Christian Defense Coalition, comments, "Sadly, we are seeing an erosion and crushing of religious freedoms across America.  This is especially true during the Christmas season where there is an open hostility toward public expressions of faith.  And, now we are seeing it by removing God from Capitol flag certificates.  We must constantly remind our public officials that the Constitution promises freedom 'of' religion not freedom 'from' religion.

"'The Nativity Project' offers an opportunity for people of faith to enter the public square and share the glorious news of Christmas.  And this is, 'Peace on earth, goodwill toward man.'  It is essential that the faith community not be intimidated or discouraged into surrendering their God given First Amendment freedoms which offers to all Americans the right to publicly worship God free from government interference or harassment."

The news conference and the Nativity Display will be on the lower western plaza of the United States Capitol building.