When we think of a “mall,” shopping is likely the first activity that comes to mind. Perhaps dining or catching a film follows closely, but rarely does one associate a mall with religion. However, a Texan entrepreneur aimed to challenge this perception in 2017 when he purchased an entire mall, intending to install a massive statue featuring the biblical Ten Commandments.
John Bushman, a businessman hailing from Odessa, acquired the Vista Ridge Mall in Lewisville, West Texas, for $17.3 million and rebranded it as “Music City Mall.” He planned to invest an additional $3 million to $4 million to enhance the mall’s appeal and transform it into a “community space.” Bushman believed that placing the Ten Commandments would contribute to creating a space infused with “love and peace.”
This endeavor wasn’t new for Bushman, as his other businesses, including hotels and shopping malls, featured similar displays—an 800-pound stone tablet engraved with the Ten Commandments. Despite his assertion that the intention was not to overwhelm or make a statement, but rather to share the message of the Lord’s love, questions arose about whether the mall’s second level could support the weight of the monument.
Bushman clarified, stating, “We’re putting the two greatest commandments about loving the Lord and your neighbor on the second level because they weigh about a third of the 800-pound Ten Commandments.” The engraved monument, measuring 5 feet wide and 8 feet tall, was positioned on the mall’s first floor, visible to all. Bushman emphasized that, especially in turbulent times, the goal was to share peace and the Lord’s love.
While it’s not uncommon for American businesses to incorporate faith into their marketing, religious messages in malls are considered unusual. Despite some positive reception, skepticism prevailed. Critics argued that such displays were offensive to those who didn’t believe in religion, suggesting alternative fictional stories. Some viewed it as a step backward if America became more religious, perceiving it as an expectation of certain behaviors.
Since Bushman’s acquisition, the Music City Mall underwent significant changes, maintaining a focus on supporting local arts and music. However, in September 2022, Bushman’s ICA Properties sold the mall, marking the end of live events and the removal of the Ten Commandments monument. The mall underwent further transformations, culminating in a new name, “The Vista,” with redevelopment plans discussed by the city council in March 2023.
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