Paul Wilczynski's Observations

Religious Leaders speak out against attacks on religious liberty inherent in impending filibuster vote

From the Unitarian Universalist Association ...

(May 19, 2005) As the Senate begins debate on the nominations of judges Janice Rogers Brown and Pricilla Owen, a vote on the so-called nuclear option to cut off filibusters against judicial nominees is expected in the Senate in the next week. The leaders of many religious organizations have expressed deep concern over attacks on religious liberty which underly the legislative impasse which exists in the US Senate.

The Rev. William G. Sinkford, President of the Unitarian Universalist Association said in a statement issued last month, "No one religious group or political party can ever hold a monopoly on spiritual conviction," said Rev. Sinkford. "In fact, political opinions vary widely even within particular faith communities. Within my own tradition, Unitarian Universalists experience diversity of opinion as a true blessing. Many different theological viewpoints are able to thrive within our congregations because we have agreed that we need not think alike to love alike."

Sinkford continued, "To claim that minority-party senators and their supporters are acting 'against people of faith' because they wish to preserve the Senate filibuster is an affront to millions of devout Americans.

"Senator Frist has crossed an important line in our American tradition," concluded Rev. Sinkford. "The Constitution wisely ensures that there are no religious tests for political offices. While private groups, including churches, have a guaranteed right to speak out on social issues, a democracy's highest elected leaders must hold themselves accountable to all of 'we, the people.' I believe that Senator Frist has a moral responsibility to declare unequivocally that the political views of the American people do not define the depth or quality of their faith. Our nation was founded on this inspired principle, and we imperil the precious freedoms of all our citizens when we cease to honor and protect the separation of church and state."

The UUA has made available extensive material related to this issue including petitions, information for newsletters and orders of service, sample letters to legislators, opinion pieces, and much more. For complete information, please visit http://www.uua.org/news/2005/050519_nuclear.html .

posted by Paul Wilczynski @ 2:05 PM