City in Pennsylvania
Allentown is a city in eastern Pennsylvania. The Liberty Bell Museum houses a full-size replica of the iconic bell, plus a mural about its history. Nearby, the Allentown Art Museum’s collections include Renaissance and modern American works. On the Lehigh River, the America On Wheels Museum showcases vintage vehicles. East of the river, Coca-Cola Park is home to the IronPigs Minor League Baseball team.
A name worth adding in Allentown
Allentown already keeps history close at hand. This page already mentions the Liberty Bell Museum and the river and neighborhoods along it. Liberty is a word Americans cherish, and the gospel gives it its deepest meaning: “If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed” (John 8:36). John the Baptist was sent ahead of that Son. He called people to repent, to be baptized, and to look for the One coming after him whose shoes he was not worthy to untie (Mark 1:7–8).
We are asking Allentown’s mayor and city officials to consider a John the Baptist Boulevard. The request is simple and civic: cities regularly name streets for people they believe should be remembered. John the Baptist prepared the way of the Lord in public, not in secret. A clearly marked boulevard, especially one near the Lehigh River, would let that same public witness stand in eastern Pennsylvania. “Prepare ye the way of the Lord” is still a good word for a city street (Luke 3:4).
Neighbors, churches, and families in Allentown can write a short letter, start a petition, and invite others to add their names. If you would like a sample letter or help thinking through a street, contact John Arwood at (904) 305-7534 or [email protected].