ECU removing cross from campus chapel

ADA, Okla. (KXII) -- Boswell Chapel has been on East Central University's campus for the past 60 years, but because of a possible lawsuit, one of the chapel's most recognizable features, the cross is in jeopardy of being torn down.

"It's very disturbing to me and I just really believe that Christians need to rise up against this kind of thing in America," Randall Christy said.

That's what pastor Randall Christy said when he learned the university would be taking down the cross from Boswell Chapel's steeple on campus.

The university says the D.C. based organization, Americans United for Separation of Church and State demanded removal of the religious symbol.

The organization also wants bibles and crosses inside the building removed as well.

ECU President Dr. Katricia Pierson says, "We do not want to presume to embrace one faith over another."

"It just boggles my mind that people are able wield this kind of power into someone else's local community," Christy said.

"Sent chills up my body, who in their right mind would wanna have a cross taken down that's been there for you know 60 years," Destin Wilkerson said.

Christy says he thinks people misunderstand the meaning of the cross.

"The cross actually is welcoming everybody, everyone is welcome...of all faiths, of all colors all races everything," He said.

ECU student Chron Wallace says he's a Christian, but says he understands where the university is coming from.

"It makes sense for the college if they have to, I wouldn't wanna get sued millions of dollars so it, kind of makes sense," Wallace said.

Another student who didn't want to be on camera says even though she's not a Christian, the cross doesn't bother her.

Christy says he plans to lead a protest so the cross can remain on campus.

"I don't know if it'll help or not but it'll sure make me feel better if I stand up for the cross," He said.

Locals say they'll continue to protest until their voices are heard.