Ocean Grove’s new pier, rebuilt after Hurricane Sandy, has sparked heated debates for its cross-shaped design. Some locals, especially from the LGBTQ and secular communities, argue that it represents an imposition of Christian values in public spaces. Presbyterian Pastor Douglas Grote called it “Christian bullying” and suggested the symbol could become as divisive as a “Trojan horse” in the region.
Ocean Grove’s Religious Roots
Founded in 1869 as a Methodist summer retreat, Ocean Grove remains deeply tied to its religious roots. The Ocean Grove Camp Meeting Association (OGCMA) owns most of the land, including the pier, beach, and boardwalk. While some residents view the cross pier as a reaffirmation of the town’s heritage, others see it as exclusionary.
Public vs. Private: Who Gets a Say?
Despite being open to the public without an entry fee, the pier was funded privately by the OGCMA. Critics argue that public input was ignored, with one resident stating, “The problem is not solely the pier in the shape of the cross, but the total lack of regard for [the community]”. This tension highlights ongoing concerns about transparency and inclusivity in OGCMA projects.
Engineering Challenges and Delays
The pier, initially designed to withstand strong storms, faced setbacks shortly after opening. In October and December 2023, unusually strong waves damaged three of its 88 pilings, leading to its temporary closure. The McLaren Engineering Group is currently investigating the structural issues, and a partial reopening is planned as repairs continue.
Balancing Heritage and Modern Values
For many, the cross-shaped pier symbolizes faith and resilience, but it also raises questions about balancing religious freedom with secular inclusivity. OGCMA President Michael Badger expressed hope that the pier could bring unity, stating, “People of varying points of view will enjoy the peace of a stroll out over the Atlantic”.
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Calls for Greater Oversight
Some residents, led by groups like Neptune United, have called for more regulatory oversight. They argue that the pier’s design and OGCMA’s policies, such as restricting Sunday beach access, blur the line between private religious practices and public use of space. These critics view the pier as a litmus test for broader issues of governance and community input.
Ongoing Legal Battles
The controversy doesn’t end with the pier. OGCMA is currently in a legal dispute with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection over restricting beach access. The state agency has threatened fines of up to $25,000 per day unless the association complies, underscoring deeper tensions about the role of religion in public life – even something as simple as a cross-shaped pier.
Diverging Opinions Within the Community
While some residents celebrate the pier as a testament to Ocean Grove’s faith-based origins, others feel marginalized. Harriet Bernstein and Luisa Paster, long-time residents, remarked on the lack of inclusivity, emphasizing the diverse makeup of the community. Such divergent views reveal the challenges of reconciling historical identity with contemporary pluralism.
Moving Forward
The future of Ocean Grove’s cross-shaped pier hinges on more than structural repairs—it depends on bridging the divide between its religious heritage and the evolving values of its residents. Open dialogue and mutual respect are essential to finding a path forward that honors both tradition and diversity.
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