In the end I just wish these pastors, priests, etc would just keep their mouths shut about politics.

[book_worm]

There is supposed to be a seperation between church and state in this country. In the end I think politicians should stop trying to get the endorsements of pastors, priests, or rabbis. And I wish that pastors, priests and rabbis would stop using their bully pulpits to speak out on political issues and to endorse candidates. This goes for Moonies, Mormans, Scientologists, too!!

If their going to speak out on politics and endorse candidates maybe they should be taxed too.

[ayeshahaqqiqa]

1. Perhaps they should heed the wise words of Sharif Baba

of the Rafi Order of Dervishes, who, when asked about the political situation in the world, said, "Don't worry about politics. Worry about soul."

[rox63]

2. I agree totally

Keep politics out of church, and keep church out of politics.

[msallied]

3. I agree completely.

[mac2]

4. The candidates are very much into religion in government.

The religious groups feel their power and want a piece of the pie. Obama even demands more money for Faith Based funding (public money for cronyism) when it is illegal without Congressional approval.

I feel the Secretary of the Treasury who watches over the "purse" should be in jail for failing to protect public funds. It's not Bush's piggy bank.

All of these political churches should have their tax exempt status removed since they are out to destroy democracy for theocratic rule. They have grown too fat and greedy wanting to control government for their own agenda and greed. Where is a Jesus like person to toss them out of the temple?

Follow the money.

[dsomuah]

5. I agree.

I have a problem with conservative pastors who say "Vote republican, that's the moral party" and I have a problem with pastors with liberal congregations who rail against "opressive, imperialist governments", I have problems with pastors who give their membership lists to politicians for them to use for fundraising, I have problem with religious leaders who form political pressure groups, and I have a problem with religious leaders who conduct voter registration excercises in their churches or bring candidates to their churches to address the congregation. I not only think it's unethical, I think it's highly immoral.

[mac2]

6. Yes you read the Constitution and have ethics.

[cbc5g]

7. I'm really tired of religion and politics mixing n/t

[PoliticalAmazon]

8. HALLELUJAH! I don't like it when Pat Robertson, or any other preacher, does it...

because they usually end up defiling their religion in the process, AND it tends to divide America.

[nichomachus]

9. In Mexico

I have friends who have moved to Mexico. There, priests, ministers, etc. cannot run for public office. Also, they are not allowed to speak out on specific political issues. Their local bishop was preaching against an abortion bill that was under consideration and he was called in by the authorities and told that if he didn't stop, he would be arrested.

And, this is considered a "Catholic country."

[dave29]

10. amen, and amen

wtf is up with pastors in America?

[Ron Green]

11. Keep wishin', but it ain't gonna happen.

Any organized religious group is going to attempt to deal with societal problems in a way that reflects their cosmic view. To keep ALL religious, spiritual, philanthropic or charitable groups out of the public arena is of course impossible, so where do we draw the line in deciding which ones go too far?

My own wish is to encourage churches that are tolerant, charitable and inclusive and discourage ones that are exclusive or judgmental.