| Subject: Re: Churches advocating "Vote Pro-Life" |
Author:
Astrid
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Date Posted: 17:19:00 10/29/02 Tue
In reply to:
Jen
's message, "Churches advocating "Vote Pro-Life"" on 06:03:40 10/29/02 Tue
>1) A church, as a tax-exempt religious organization,
>probably ought not meddle in politics quite so
>blatantly (e.g., endorse certain issues or candidates)
I'm not sure I agree with you here (speaking as a non-religious person myself). I think all groups should feel free to participate in the democratic process, whether they are charitable groups or not. I don't know how I feel about church groups being given tax-exempt status automatically, however. I think if they can show they give to the community in a tangible way then fine, but not just by virtue of the fact that they're a house of worship.
>2) But, if they do advocate political positions, it
>should be with an eye toward the overall philosophy of
>the church, not just one issue. The pro-life thing is
>a perfect example. Yes, the Catholic Church is
>pro-life, but overall, its social justice philosophy
>is *extremely* liberal. By advocating pro-life
>voting, they're asking parishoners to ignore the vast
>body of Church philosophy on social justice.
I think you're very right about this one. Any group wishing to decrease the number of abortions (and that rate is decreasing!), needs to focus on issues like poverty, family values like male responsibility and sexual responsibility, and adoption as an alternative to abortion. Typically the kind of social programs that are required to combat poverty and social ills are supported by liberals and denounced by conservatives, which always makes the conservative pro-life agenda seem ironic to me.
I really agree with you, Jen--I have no issue with pro-lifers who embrace life at all stages, but I definitely do with those who don't see that we have a responsibility for children born into poverty and disorder.
I also have a problem with pro-lifers who denounce the right to choose euthanasia--to me life is more than about existence--it's about quality of existence.
Astrid
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