Readers React: A vote in support of ‘In God We Trust’ at the Irvine City Council

To the editor: Contrary to your editorial board, I applaud Irvine City Council’s display of the national motto, “In God We Trust.” I suppose that our differences of opinion come down to how we define a largely indefinable concept. (“In whom does Irvine trust?,” editorial, Nov. 13)

Even a cursory look at the characteristics routinely used to define God include mighty, wise, holy, merciful, trustworthy, forgiving, powerful, loving and judgmental. It’s the judgmental that gives God a bad rap, I think. No one likes to be told that what they’re doing is wrong.

I respect community leaders demonstrating a willingness to submit to a higher authority. We would all do well to turn from the altar of self for a bit and look up.

Bonnie Latham Lyon, Calabasas

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To the editor: Thank you for this editorial. I am saddened to read that Mayor Steven Choi is spearheading the effort to make “In God We Trust” adorn the council chambers.

I believe in God, but I also believe strongly in separation of church and state. For those who do not believe in God, this signage could be offensive. Irvine’s council chambers should be welcoming to all city residents.

There certainly must be a better use of time and resources to help improve the welfare of Irvine residents than putting up new signage.

Gail Feuerstein, Irvine

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To the editor: I’ve lived in Irvine since 1968, and to see “In God We Trust” displayed in such an exemplary way by a council that just dropped the city’s minimum wage from as high as $13.43 for certain city-contracted employees to $9 per hour is strange.

Are they kidding? What faith are they referring to?

Phyllis J. Lutjeans, Irvine

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