Moral Action Committee Reports

Religious Views, An Emerging Issue

 

Rob Keith, Pastor
First Missionary Baptist Church of Cockrell Hill
Dallas, Texas

September 11, 2006

 

According to a Houston Chronicle report this morning, September 11, 2006, religious faith in politics is an emerging issue in the approaching Texas elections. The article quotes gubernatorial candidates Perry, Strayhorn, Friedman, and Werner in specific statements concerning the link between religious faith and political expression in general as well as in the related issues of Protection of Marriage, sanctity of life, ethics, and such compassionate budget issues as reinstating health care for children, education and welfare.

Also quoted in the article are two great friends of Texans of faith: The Texas Eagle Forum's Cathie Adams and Suzii Paynter, who directs the Texas Baptist Christian Life Commission. Ms Adams says, "It is not debatable that there is a right to life. ... It's a God-given right. ... There is no way that a person can say, 'I'm a religious person,' and then reject (God's) standard."

Governor Perry who was reported to be unavailable for an interview on faith and politics was represented by campaign spokesman Robert Black.

Ms Strayhorn, Independent candidate, is a Methodist who supports "sanctity of life" and the ban on "same sex marriage."

Mr. Friedman, another Independent but with Libertarian leanings, claims to be a non-practicing Jew and is notoriously irreverent in lifestyle and attitude. He supports "Pro Choice," and because of his Libertarian leanings is rather pragmatic on faith in politics. His quote is, "When its comes to religion, if you're not doing good, I don't think any religious activity makes a lot of sense."

Mr. Werner, who is running as a Libertarian, is quoted, "It is not the business of the state to be promoting, engaging in or in any way involved with religious or moral principles. The business of the state is to protect the life and property of its citizens and to leave moral and religious judgments to the conscience of individual Texans."

Clear in the news report is that Texans of faith are almost twice as likely to view the Republican Party as religion friendly. Also clear is that the Dems are getting the message and attempting to change the way they are perceived. Do not despair; our voice is being heard. Continue to pray for and contact your representatives with issues of concern. Continue to study issues and candidates. Continue to vote your principles. Continue to allow the Holy Spirit to speak through you on political matters.

(The article is available in its entirety for a limited time at www.chron.com under the byline of Peggy Fikac.)

Thank you for the honor of serving on the Texas Moral Action Committee and please remember the committee in your prayers, personal giving and church budgets. We are not a "high maintenance" committee, so even a small offering is a great help, and every prayer is appreciated deeply.