Christian Center Would Be a Cultural Asset

Re “Thinking Outside Big-Box Zoning,” April 29:

In the summer of 2000 I traveled with the Cypress Masterworks Chorale to Ireland, Wales, England and Scotland, where we performed in beautiful churches, soaring cathedrals, ancient castles and even quaint little pubs. We sang sacred and secular music representing Cypress College and the city of Cypress. They loved our hymns and gospel spirituals such as “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” and classic American tunes like “Route 66.”

My overseas tour was an experience I will never forget. I was an ambassador representing the United States, California and Cypress. I will also never forget how my soul and spirit soared, singing in those echo-filled cathedrals. God was present in those moments. His spirit was almost palpable.

So what do I tell my friends now in Ireland when they want to visit Cypress? Do I tell them that we don’t support churches where people can sing freely to God, that Cypress turned down the opportunity to have a beautiful church in their community that would hold up to 4,000 people?

Cypress’ opposition to Cottonwood Christian Center means opposing a cultural asset. Cypress will be enhanced and glorified by the church that we intend to build and by the joy and beauty it will bring to the citizens.

Teresa Pieper

Huntington Beach