Separation of Church and State Contested in Walnut Creek Mission Restorations

June 2, 2005

Source: Contra Costa Times

http://www.bradenton.com/mld/bradenton/news/nation/11796350.htm

On June 2, 2005 the Contra Costa Times reported, "as worries mount over crumbling walls at California's 21st Spanish-era missions, one man says another historic wall deserves equal preservation. The Rev. Barry Lynn claims that spending $10 million in taxpayer money to renovate the structures would breach a constitutional barrier against government funding for religion. The hard-line advocate for church and state separation is locked in a legal battle that tests the constitutionality of federal legislation to fund renovations. Supporters say the money is a must to save monuments that are priceless windows on the West's past. Lynn realizes his challenge won't win many fans in the Golden State."