Alyssa Martin's Blog

Barack Obama on Gandhi Service Day

Alyssa Martin — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 19:09:03 EDT

Senator Obama issued the following statement in honor of Gandhi Service Day:

Dear Friends,

It's a pleasure for me to join today in commemorating Mahatma Gandhi's day
of birth, celebrated across America and around the world by service to our neighbors and other good works. Gandhi's commitment to creating positive change by bringing people together peacefully to demand it resonate as strongly today as they did during his lifetime. Through the power of his example and his own unshakeable spirit, he inspired a people to resist oppression, sparking a revolution that freed a nation from colonial rule. In formulating his strategy to achieve freedom, Gandhi had a choice, and he chose courage over fear.

America faces many choices as we work to address the challenges of our time. We must act from a place of strength and conviction to reclaim the high road and position of moral leadership that has defined the United States at its best.

Gandhi's significance is universal. Countless people around the world have been touched by his spirit and example - his victory in turn inspired a generation of young Americans to peacefully wipe out a system of overt oppression that had endured for a century, and more recently led to velvet revolutions in Eastern Europe and extinguished apartheid in South Africa. Nelson Mandela, the Dalai Lama and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., spoke of their great debt to Gandhi. His portrait hangs in my office to remind me that real change will not come from Washington - it will come when the people, united, bring it to Washington.

This is a pivotal election. This is our time for change. For far too long, we've watched as ordinary Americans work harder and harder for less and less. We've watched our standing in the world erode as we continue to lose American lives in a war that should've never been authorized and never been waged. I need you to stand up and work for change.
Let us all rededicate ourselves, every day from now until November 4th, and beyond, to living Gandhi's call to be the change we wish to see in the world.

Sincerely,
Barack Obama

Barack Obama on Eid, Festival of Breaking the Fast

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 02:03:53 EDT

Senator Barack Obama today issued the following statement on Eid, the Festival of Breaking the Fast that marks the end of Ramadan:

I want to convey my greetings to the American Muslim community on the Festival of Breaking the Fast that marks the end of Ramadan. Through fasting, prayer and charity, your observance this past month of the universal values of patience, generosity and caring for the less fortunate is an important reminder of the values that have helped make America great. As a nation, we must commit ourselves to that greater cause to ensure that the less fortunate are never forgotten or ignored. On behalf of Michelle, Joe and Jill Biden and I, we hope that Ramadan brought you happiness, good health, and a sense of renewal.

Obama for America Pauses to Remember 9/11

Alyssa Martin — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 17:44:45 EDT

Reverend Terri LaVelle, Senior Advisor for the Religious Affairs department, offered an interfaith prayer to honor those whose lives were lost – and those for whom the sorrow is still fresh in their hearts – on September 11th …

Today, on the seventh anniversary of the September 11th attacks we, along with our nation, honor the memories of all who suffered a loss on September 11, 2001. We honor and remember each and every life that was lost on September 11, 2001, and grieve with the family and friends who lost a loved one in New York City, at the Pentagon, and in Shanksville, PA.

God of all creation, help us be righteous and strong. Grant your peace and blessings upon all your creation.
God, we pray that you unite our hearts by the common bond of justice for all.

God, inspire us to give life to a vision that ensures we love, respect and truly care for one another.
God, help each of us to recognize You in the face of our neighbors, here and throughout the world.

God, may we recognize and honor the diversity You have lovingly planted within each of us and our world community.
God, help us to continue to be a country keeping sacred the love of justice and an unending call for unity.

God of love, mercy, justice, and peace, bless those who fell on that day, and minister to those who continue to suffer. Help us remember that change requires sacrifice. Help us be mindful that change requires time. In your Divine guidance and wisdom, look over us.

In addition to this prayer, Rev. LaVelle shared a bit of reflective reading from Seamus Heaney’s “The Cure at Troy” …

History says, Don’t hope on this side of the grave, but then, once in a lifetime the longed for tidal-wave of justice can rise up, and hope and history rhyme.

So hope for a great sea-change on the far side of revenge. Believe that a farther shore is reachable from here. Believe in miracles and cures and healing wells.

National Baptist Convention

Alyssa Martin — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 17:42:50 EDT

On September 10, Michelle Obama addressed the National Baptist Convention in Cincinatti, Ohio. She opened with the following remarks …

The National Baptist Convention has worked for years to build a community that serves all God’s children, around the world and in our own communities. Thanks to Dr. Shaw and the leaders that came before him, God has built this church into our nation’s oldest and largest Baptist convention. And I’m so proud to be here with you today.

Michelle went on to talk about what brought her to this place, mentioning the faith and people that give her strength and illumine her path …

I come here today as a Christian, a person of faith, who believes that we’ve all been called to serve our fellow men and women, and to honor all of God’s creation. I come here as a wife who loves my husband and believes he will be an extraordinary president. I come here as a daughter, raised on the South Side of Chicago by two of the warmest, hardest-working people I’ve ever known. But most of all, I come here as a mother. Our girls are God’s greatest gift to Barack and me, and a reflection of His grace in our lives every day.

Michelle invoked the Gospel of Luke, saying “To whom much is given, much is required … That’s the promise that we make to God.” She called on us to give our time, labor, work, and gifts to making “our world more just, more prosperous, and more peaceful.” But she also noted the challenges we face, and the realities we must confront …

So many of our neighbors are working hard every day, without enough resources, to keep their families and communities strong. So the question we should ask is, shouldn’t we have policies that reflect that reality—that we’re all in this together? Shouldn’t we have policies that express our values, and honor our common humanity? Shouldn’t we have leaders who get it?

In one of the most important moments of her life, Michelle remembers Barack speaking to a group of people devastated by local steel plant closings. He said, “we know the world as it should be … we know what it looks like in our hearts.” It’s a belief and hope in things unseen. Michelle pointed out what’s at stake in this election, which is the chasm between the world as it is and the world as it should be: 8 straight months of job losses; an economy that lifts Wall Street, and not Main Street; 46 million Americans without health insurance; 1 out of 3 high school dropouts; a reckless engagement with the rest of the world. This is the world as it is, but we must fight for the world as it should be …

Remember what Jesus told us, in one of the greatest speeches ever given, the Sermon on the Mount. He said, “You are the light of the world.” He told us not to hide our light, but to let it shine for all. He was telling us to get involved in this world. To open our hearts and raise our voices and share our hopes with the people around us and to work for as long as it takes to make those hopes come true. That’s what we are called to do today. If we tell all the people in our lives what’s at stake in this election. If we remind them that voting is a responsibility and an opportunity. If we tell them that this time is our time. And if we get everyone we know to vote on November 4th. Then, on Election Day, we will let our light shine. We will build a better future, for our daughters, our sons, our parents and our grandchildren. We will finally bring the change that we need to the country we love. And we will do it together.

In Your Words -- Why Do You Support Senator Obama?

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 11:54:59 EDT

Michele, a lay Franciscan, believes “faith touches every part of our lives, and politics is no different.” Michele was inspired to get involved in this campaign for all the moral values issues at stake, and because we need a President who is thoughtful and honest. As a person of faith, this is what Michele had to say about supporting Senator Obama:

What inspires me most about Senator Obama is his thought process. He goes beyond angst and socials wars to achieve a reconciling third view. This is why he will ultimately be better in foreign policy, as he will seek a convergence of the best ideas and approaches. He doesn’t want to treat immigrants as scapegoats, and he has a plan that uses tax dollars wisely by assisting those with the greatest need. Even when I disagree with him, I still find his thought process to be clear and full of depth. Obama cares about the things I care about such as alternative energy, taking care of the poor and middle class, using diplomacy first, compassionate immigration reform, health care, etc. It tells me that as a human being he pays attention to the soul, and I feel that he is a good man.

We need honesty, the ability to lead and make decisions, and we need the needs and concerns of the people to be heard. We need a president who has the ability to synthesize varying points of view to come to consensus to solve problems. We need to be inspired to do better than we are doing by someone with integrity and respect. We need someone to speak the language of our collective, American soul in such a way that it gets us involved, but also lays out a bit of a roadmap for us. We need to know we are going in a positive direction without veils of secrecy and misconduct. I see a good degree of all of these in Senator Obama. I pray our nation gets a chance!

Life Experience

Alyssa Martin — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 19:04:11 EDT

Recently, there have been some questions raised about what a community organizer does, and why that experience is relevant. Senator Obama has been candid about his time organizing in the South Side of Chicago after steel plant closings devastated those communities. He worked alongside Christian churches that were experienced in bringing about bottom-up change and true reform. In addition to improving the living conditions for these communities through job training programs, Barack empowered people to take ownership of the political process by organizing meetings with officials and orchestrating mass voter registration.

David Plouffe, Campaign Manager for the Obama campaign, made this statement on community organizing:

Community organizing is how ordinary people respond to out-of-touch politicians and their failed policies … Community organizing is the foundation of the civil rights movement, the women's suffrage movement, labor rights, and the 40-hour workweek. And it's happening today in church basements and community centers and living rooms across America.

Senator Obama often says that community organizing was “the best education I've ever had.” It's relevant in that it offers insight as to why Obama's in this race, and how he intends to govern from the bottom up, drawing upon the energy and ideas of the American people. But that's not the only education and experience he's had; to put things into perspective, Obama was a community organizer for three years after college.

After serving as a community organizer, Obama went on to pursue a diverse body of work, spanning law, education, and public service. He made history as the first African-American to serve as Editor of the Harvard Law Review, where he caught the eye of a professor at the University of Chicago. Eventually, Obama would teach constitutional law at the university, where he demonstrated a reverence for our founding document, and was well-respected by people of all political persuasions. As a civil rights lawyer, Obama litigated against employment and housing discrimination. These varied experiences motivated Obama to work for steady change in the state legislature. While in the Illinois State Senate, Obama helped reform a broken death penalty system, develop the Earned Income Tax Credit, and expand early childhood education. After serving for 8 years in this capacity, Obama broke new ground by becoming a United States Senator. While there, he fought for more government transparency, ethics reform, veterans care, the secure of deadly weapons, and energy independence. It doesn't take too long to notice that there's a broadness and depth in Senator Obama's background. While Obama is running to effect large-scale change, his life experience demonstrates that he is ultimately rooted in people and communities. As Harry, an Obama supporter, observed, “Obama is a fellow pilgrim with us.”

Biden: Committed Catholic and Man of Values

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 13:49:31 EDT

It's official: Senator Joe Biden will bring his experience, vision, and tenacity to the Democratic ticket. But what does Joe Biden believe in? What values have inspired his life amidst pain and joy, both in and out of the public eye?

Joe Biden is a man of deep and sincere faith, which has helped him rise up after falling on tough times. A "scrappy kid from Scranton," Biden once professed in an interview with the Christian Science Monitor that "he felt at home in the church," as he spent his years nestled in an Irish Catholic neighborhood. In junior-high, he briefly contemplated becoming a priest. And when Biden had to go through harrowing surgery to repair a brain aneurysm, he reportedly "asked doctors whether he could tuck his rosary beads under his pillow."

When personal tragedy struck and took his wife and daughter in an accident, the incident almost derailed his political career, but Joe Biden pushed on as a committed father. While Biden is a devoted Senator and faithful public servant, he has never allowed politics to supplant people, as he would take the long commute from Washington to Delaware so that he could be home with his kids every night. Recently, Beau Biden, Joe Biden's son, offered a moving reflection on his father:

"We, not the Senate, were all he cared about … Five years later, we married my mom, Jill. Together they rebuilt our family."

"So even though Dad worked in Washington, he's never been part of Washington. He always sounded like the kid from Scranton, Pa., he is. And even that is a story of overcoming."

Shedding light on that Catholic "kid from Scranton," Biden once affirmed:

"The animating principle of my faith, as taught to me by church and home, was that the cardinal sin was abuse of power. It was not only required as a good Catholic to abhor and avoid abuse of power, but to do something to end that abuse."

As with Senator Obama, Biden views faith as an "active, palpable agent"; you can't just talk about values, you have to "do something" to realize those values. This approach helps explain Biden’s leadership in ending abuse in homes around our country by writing the Violence Against Women Act, which has allowed countless women to restart their lives after domestic violence. Joe Biden’s faith has also informed his advocacy on issues such as genocide, universal health care, equal pay, and helping America's struggling work force. By promoting policies that value and strengthen families, as well as advancing a tough, smart, and principled foreign policy, his life's work contains the raw spirit of faith in action.

As Biden works to support American families and causes in this campaign and as the next Vice President, he’ll continue to draw strength from his faith and his roots.

As Alexia Kelley, director of Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good, noted:

Joe Biden's "Catholic and working class roots have been a source of solidarity for him with hard-working American families who are suffering the most from the current economic crisis."

Joe Biden gets it because his iife wasn't easy, either. In the words of C.S. Lewis, he went through moments of difficulty and crisis "not without pain, but without stain." When Biden went to Washington, he sought to end the abuse of power, empowering Americans in the process. Speaking on his personality, Doug Kmiec, a professor at Pepperdine University, related, "You can't find a more regular guy than Joe Biden. He would be the kind of guy you would expect to find in the parish hall, in the neighborhood." Not as someone running to be Vice President of the United States.

Barack Obama on Ramadan

Alyssa Martin — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 22:48:07 EDT

In honor of the month of Ramadan, Senator Obama made the following statement:

Today marks the beginning of Ramadan, a special time for American Muslims. This is not only a month of fasting and prayer -- it is also a time to reflect on the needs of those who are less fortunate. In the weeks to come, Michelle and I want to wish all American Muslims our very best wishes. We hope Ramadan brings you happiness, good health, and a sense of renewal.

Patriot Games

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 17:56:44 EDT

Barack called it once before: “It’s silly season in politics, folks.” While Obama continues to press his case for President, speaking to foreign policy and a host of domestic challenges, he has been accused of not loving his country enough, which reeks more of games and “gotcha” politics than genuine progress. That’s why Senator Obama wants to restore integrity to our political process as well as have integrity reflected in our policies.

Speaking to the group Veterans of Foreign Wars, Senator Obama asserted:

“If we think that we can secure our country by just talking tough without acting tough and smart, then we will misunderstand this moment and miss its opportunities. If we think that we can use the same partisan playbook where we just challenge our opponent's patriotism to win an election, then the American people will lose. The times are too serious for this kind of politics.” […]

“One of the things that we have to change in this country is the idea that people can’t disagree without challenging each other's character and patriotism. I have never suggested that Senator McCain picks his positions on national security based on politics or personal ambition. I have not suggested it because I believe that he genuinely wants to serve America's national interest.”

When people impugn his character or patriotism, Obama will respond directly: “I will let no one question my love of this country. I love America, so do you, and so does John.” Obama extends the same good faith to his opponent, a mark of true integrity no matter how small the politics. Obama closes with this injunction for civility: “So let’s have a serious debate, and let's debate our disagreements on the merits of policy – not personal attacks.”

Reactions to Saddleback

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 12:17:29 EDT

Reflective, “anchored in Scripture,” and compassionate – these were some of your reactions to Barack at Saddleback. What else did people of faith have to say?

George remarked, “As to Obama’s response about America’s greatest moral failure, it was right on. I can really relate to his sentiment about caring for “the least of these.” This is what Jesus was all about and what every Christian should be about.” In that same vein, Harry said, “I agree with Senator Obama that we have failed to live up to Matthew 25 and the Sermon on the Mount … we have preferred the dualistic, either/or mentality instead of the way of agape love.”

Commenting more generally on our fractured government, Dorothy Marie asserted, “I really appreciated Senator Obama’s explanation that Washington’s politics are impeding the efforts of those to help others. Senator Obama put the spotlight on the specific area of helping the disadvantaged … it was the first time I grasped what it means to have a ‘broken politics.’” Throughout the evening, Pat observed, “Barack hit at the heart of the problem – lack of respect in our politics. The trivializing of a candidate’s aspirations to do something for the country is certainly not what the Bible dictates.”

On a personal note, Rita affirmed, “I was very encouraged that the Senator was anchored by Scripture, which formed the foundation of his responses during the evening.”

Rachel offered these words in summary:

Obama managed to connect emotionally to the crowd as well as appeal to our intellect. His answers provided a clear understanding of who he is and what he believes. The most telling question had to do with the presence of evil and how we approach it. Obama recognized that in our pursuit of good, we must have a sense of humility. Good intentions don’t always bring about positive results, and so we must be thoughtful and reasoned before fighting in the name of what’s good.

Reactions to Saddleback

Alyssa Martin — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 20:19:38 EDT

Obama managed to connect emotionally to the crowd as well as appeal to our intellect. His answers provided a clear understanding of who he is and what he believes. The most telling question had to do with the presence of evil and how we approach it. Obama recognized that in our pursuit of good, we must have a sense of humility. Good intentions don’t always bring about positive results, and so we must be thoughtful and reasoned before fighting in the name of what’s good.

Why Obama Hopes To Be President

Alyssa Martin — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 18:30:17 EDT

For those tuning into the Saddleback Civil Forum on Saturday night, a recurring theme throughout Senator Obama’s conversation with Pastor Warren was “caring for the least of these.” Obama was honest in admitting his past shortcomings, owning up to a “fundamental selfishness” in his youth. What’s compelling about this period of his life – as was revealed in the faith forum – is that Obama grows to embrace an empathetic and interconnected worldview. When asked what America’s greatest moral failure was, Obama remarked...

I think America’s greatest moral failure has been that we still don’t abide by that basic precept in Matthew that whatever you do for the least of my brothers, you do for me. That basic principle applies to poverty, racism, sexism. It applies to not having … ladders of opportunity for people to get into the middle class. There is a pervasive sense that this country is wealthy and powerful, but we still don’t spend enough time thinking about the least of these.

It’s interesting to note the parallels between Obama’s reflections on America’s greatest moral failure and his answer to the question, “Why do you want to be President?” That same conviction and worldview emerges once again: empathy, guiding compassion toward the least of these. It’s not simply a private matter for Senator Obama; it’s essential to what he wants to accomplish as chief public servant:

I remember what my mother used to tell me. I was talking to somebody a while back and I said the one time that she’d get really angry with me is if she ever thought that I was being mean to somebody, or unfair to somebody. She said, imagine standing in their shoes, imagine looking through their eyes – that basic idea of empathy. And that I think is what’s made America special is that notion that everybody’s got a shot. If we see somebody down and out—if we see a kid who can't afford college—we care for them too. And I want to be President because that’s the America I believe in, and I feel like that American Dream is slipping away. I think we are at a critical juncture economically; I think we are at a critical juncture internationally. We’ve got to make some big decisions not just for us, but for the next generation, and we keep on putting it off. And unfortunately, our politics is so broken and Washington is so broken that we can't seem to bring together people of goodwill to solve these common problems. I think I have the ability to build bridges across partisan, racial, and regional lines to get people to work on some commonsense solutions to critical issues, and I hope that I have the opportunity to do that as President.

Faith, Family, Values: Barack at Saddleback!

Alyssa Martin — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 20:35:29 EDT

On Saturday, August 16, 7pm CT, Senator Obama will join Pastor Rick Warren and Senator McCain to discuss compassion, leadership, and civility at Saddleback church in California. Promising to avoid “gotcha questions that produce more heat than light,” Pastor Warren will explore what motivates and centers these candidates.

To give you a flavor of what the event may cover, Barack recently spoke to Ladies’ Home Journal about what allows him to stay steady throughout the campaign process: “One thing is my faith. God will hopefully keep us – meaning this country and this world – moving in a better direction … The second thing is my family. The third thing, though, is a real belief that no one person moves this country forward … It requires a lot of citizens to get behind something, citizens who’ll hold me accountable … that gives me more confidence that this is a team effort, and not just me out there by my lonesome.”

For Senator Obama, this will be the second time he has visited Saddleback alongside his friend, Pastor Warren. In December of 2001, he gave a landmark address on the global AIDS crisis. Resonating a theme of compassion, Obama affirmed, “The reason for us to step up our efforts can’t simply be instrumental. There are more fundamental reasons to care. Reasons related to our own humanity. Reasons of the soul. Like no other illness, AIDS tests our ability to put ourselves in someone else's shoes – to empathize with the plight of our fellow man.”

In addition to embracing moral issues like the AIDS pandemic, the forum promises to be humanizing and personal, so make sure you tune in on Saturday to hear Senator Obama!

Obama's National Director of Religious Affairs On Values

Alyssa Martin — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 20:29:08 EDT

Joshua Dubois, National Director of Religious Affairs for the Obama campaign, spoke with Moody Radio today about Senator Obama’s upcoming trip to Saddleback megachurch (Aug. 16) as well as the values he brings to bear as a leader.

“[Obama’s] heading out to Pastor Warren’s church to talk about his values, and it’s a subject he’s never been afraid to talk about. He’s been very open about both his personal relationship with Christ but also what we can to do reconcile religion and politics in this country. He went out there in December of 2006 to talk about faith and values. He’s given a couple major addresses about his personal faith and also laid out a plan for faith-based initiatives. So this is territory that Senator Obama’s very comfortable with. He wants to talk about how to strengthen families. He wants to talk about the best plan for America. You’re not going to agree with him on every issue, but you will agree that he’s a straight shooter, and I think that’s what he’s going to go out to Saddleback to do.

Folks will identify with his integrity, with the fact that he is a family man who loves his two girls and loves his wife, and with the fact that he’s going to try his best to lead our country in the right direction.

Even if you disagree with him on some issues, you know that he's speaking from his heart and he’s going to try his best to do the right thing. So if folks feel a little closer to Barack, if they learn a little something about him that they didn’t know before, if some issues are debunked—you know, there’s a lot of rumors and myths spreading out about him, so if he can address some of those—then I think we will have had a good day.

We encourage you to check out the interview! It’s time to come together as people of faith to look at the full range of moral-values issues facing this country. Get to know the individuals who are pioneering the way! Joshua DuBois devotes his time, energy, and self to this movement. So what motivated him in the first place? A line in Senator Obama’s DNC Convention Speech in 2004: “We worship an awesome God in the Blue States.” He had been wrestling with going into ministry or politics. “I was trying to figure out a way to bend the two together in a way where I could be an instrument of God’s will on Capitol Hill,” recalled Joshua. “I believe very strongly in Senator Obama and the values that he stands for and I’m just happy to be working for him.”

In Your Words -- Faith and Politics

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 21:02:53 EDT

A Colorado Delegate for Obama, Lynn has been a critical part of the movement for change. But she doesn’t only contribute on-the-ground; she has also shaped the emerging dialogue on faith and politics. By participating in the Values Question of the Week and providing an “American Values” interview, Lynn has inspired progress on some of the most important yet volatile issues in our country, as evidenced by her response to the question: “How do faith and politics come together in your daily life?”

At the end of each worship service we sing a paraphrased version of the scripture from Micah 6: “What does the Lord require of you? To do justice, love kindness, walk humbly.” To me, this describes completely the intersection of faith, politics and daily life. I seek to approach all people with joy and reverence. I take courageous stands, especially on behalf of those who are in some way marginalized. This often happens in small but powerful ways, like paying for the young mother in the grocery line whose food stamps won’t cover the baby formula. There are ample opportunities to create a world that is more just, more whole, more aligned and healthy. I vote. I serve on community boards. I recycle. This past year I’ve dedicated much of my life to realizing an Obama presidency—campaigning across America—and I now feel deeply honored to have been elected to serve as an Obama Delegate from Colorado to the Denver National Convention. This is an authentic, active convergence of faith and politics!

If you would like to add to the growing dialogue like Lynn, sign up to become an American Values supporter or email Faith@BarackObama.com.

Obama Maintains Strong Christian Support

Alyssa Martin — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 20:28:06 EDT

According to a recent poll by The Barna Group, a large swath of Christians supports Senator Obama over his opponent, with the race tightening among evangelicals. The results:

Among non-evangelical, born-again Christians, Obama leads 43-31%. This lead among the born again group is particularly significant, Barna notes, because this would represent the “first time in more than two decades that the born again vote has swung toward the Democratic candidate.”

Among Catholics, Obama has opened a wide lead of 39-29%. Among Protestants, Obama also has a resounding lead of 43-34%.

Among “notional” Christians, Obama leads 44-28% and among those who adhere to other faiths, Obama leads 56-24%.

Barna also noted that the “McCain candidacy does not seem to be gaining momentum among evangelicals,” and his support has in fact “declined significantly.”

(Note: faith was not self-reported in this survey, and was instead a result of the poll’s questions and Barna’s own inductions.)

This bodes well for the candidate who has not been afraid to talk candidly about his faith and values. In one of his most influential speeches to date, Obama remarked, “I’m hearing from evangelicals who may not agree with progressives on every issue but agree that poverty has no place in a world of plenty; that hate has no place in the hearts of believers; and that we all have to be good stewards of God's creations.” Obama understands the centrality of faith in peoples’ lives because it’s central to his own life; faith motivates him to create bridges rather than wedges among people of different political and religious persuasions. The Barna poll reinforces the message that the Obama campaign has sought to reinforce from the beginning: unity is the true agent of change.

Values QOW -- "Energy" Worth the Sacrifice

Alyssa Martin — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 19:32:40 EDT

While I anticipated enthusiastic responses to this week’s Values Question on energy, I wasn’t quite prepared for the depth and passion with which you reacted: Do you feel compelled from a values perspective to promote energy conservation or alternative energy? If so, what measures have you taken? In these times of economic difficulty, how much should Americans sacrifice in order to ensure an oil independent future?

Instead of simply voicing your frustrations over the energy crisis, many of you have made concrete sacrifices to reduce your carbon footprint and promote alternative energy. You affirmed that the issue of “energy” involves multiple, interconnected values, of which I will list a few: environmental stewardship or care for the Earth; obligation to our children and posterity; and equity with regard to the impact of our natural exploitation. On top of all that, Heather from Minnesota asserted, “energy issues are inseparable from issues of human rights and poverty.”

Echoing some of these values, Jack from Indiana has personally sacrificed in the following ways:

My faith calls me to be a good steward of this world God created, and I feel compelled, as a father and grandfather, to leave my children and grandchildren with a world at least as healthy as I inherited. I personally have begun with simple steps such as having energy efficient appliances, including low-watt light bulbs; using reusable canvas bags for grocery shopping; driving a more fuel efficient car whilst promoting better fuel mileage, including properly inflating the tires; and turning off and unplugging electric items when not in use. Also, those of us who can afford more expensive conservation items should work to assist less fortunate people with upgrading to more efficient items.

Omar from Florida brought a faith-based perspective to bear on energy:

Today, as modern people living in a post-industrial age, we are less familiar with the context of the Bible, which broadly consisted of nomads, farmers, and traders who were more communal than individualistic, and whose liveliness was more tied to the earth. For most Americans, going back to a simpler time isn’t feasible, but in order to sustain our modern world in a way that demonstrates charity toward everyone – and in a way that will continue to support societal progress and advancement – it’s critical that we find ways to use less energy, conserve more natural resources, and adopt lifestyles that take the long view into account rather than saddle the problems of energy dependence onto the backs of future generations.

Every faith has much to say about responsibility to our environment and to our fellow human beings, and Christianity is no exception. Christians, as well as people of all faiths, are called to act toward society in such a way that will bring about renewal in this life even as we await redemption in the next life.

What ultimately united your responses was respect – respect for each other, for our future, and for our planet. And the belief that respect for our common wellbeing begins with the individual.

Family's Value

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 17:46:33 EDT

“Of all the rocks upon which we build our lives, we are reminded that family is the most important.” When When Obama spoke these words on Father's Day, he was urging fathers to assume a more active role in the family structure by being physically and emotionally present, instilling values of “excellence and empathy” in their children.

Politicians routinely talk about strengthening family, but what does this look like in practice? How can we provide support to this most intimate, basic structure? Robert Gordon of The New Republic recently reviewed a book – Grand New Party – on this very subject, offering the following synopsis: “A much-praised new book wants the GOP to stand up for families. It's a great idea—and Obama's already doing it.” The premise for Grand New Party is that economic, social, and cultural disparities largely arise from family instability, as young people raised outside of marriage are at higher risk for poverty.

According to Gordon’s review, while Senator McCain “mechanically invokes ‘family values,” Obama has concrete policies that will uplift American families, fortifying our country’s base and ensuring our collective prosperity.

Family’s Value [Robert Gordon – The New Republic]

In their smart and fun new book, Grand New Party, Ross Douthat and Reihan Salam urge Republicans to spend trillions of dollars on policies to shore up working-class families. Several critics have pointed out that the Republican Party will likely remain much more interested in spending trillions of dollars on tax breaks for rich people. What's been less noticed is that Democrats could easily adopt much of the family agenda Douthat and Salam propose—and that, more than his opponent, Barack Obama already has. […]

More than half of McCain's tax cuts are for corporations (and hence the holders of capital); another big chunk is for upper-income taxpayers, through repeal of the Alternative Minimum Tax … By contrast, Obama would offer two tax breaks that benefit low-wage workers: the expansion of the EITC and a $500 per worker credit against payroll taxes. And he also cuts the EITC marriage penalty. According to the Tax Policy Center, Obama's tax plans are better than McCain's for the bottom 80 percent of families with children, and vastly superior for the bottom 40 percent. […]

Obama is better positioned than the Republicans … and most other politicians to talk about families. He can push fatherhood in part because he is an African American dad pushing back against a stereotype about black fathers. Raised mostly by his strong mother and grandparents, he naturally avoids the harsh tone toward single parents at which most Americans recoil. You will not catch him saying government should “stigmatize illegitimacy.”

Obama likely understands both the need to address family structure and the need to do it gently. Unlike, say, health care or energy, family is something government can properly influence only on the margin.

The Energy to Realize Change

Alyssa Martin — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 17:59:02 EDT

Senator Obama gave a crucial address today in Lansing, Michigan on the future of American energy. While we need to continue harvesting oil for immediate, transitional purposes, it’s time for America to invest in a bold, sustainable solution to our energy crisis. As Obama declared, “We have to make a serious, nationwide commitment to developing new sources of energy.” The following is an excerpt from Obama's speech, "New Energy for America":

Energy independence will require an all-hands-on-deck effort from America – effort from our scientists and entrepreneurs; from businesses and from every American citizen. Factories will have to re-tool and re-design. Businesses will need to find ways to emit less carbon dioxide. All of us will need to buy more of the fuel-efficient cars built by this state, and find new ways to improve efficiency and save energy in our own homes and businesses. […]

If I am President, I will immediately direct the full resources of the federal government and the full energy of the private sector to a single, overarching goal – in ten years, we will eliminate the need for oil from the entire Middle East and Venezuela. To do this, we will invest $150 billion over the next ten years and leverage billions more in private capital to build a new energy economy that harnesses American energy and creates five million new American jobs.

Senator Obama outlined three major steps to achieve energy independence: 1) Invest in fuel-efficient cars like the 150 mpg plug-in hybrids and improve fuel-mileage standards; 2) Require that 10% of energy comes from renewable sources by investing in wind power, solar power, clean biofuels, and safe nuclear power; 3) Mobilize business, government, and the American people to reduce demand for electricity 15% by 2020. Obama will also encourage innovative, market solutions to the problem of climate change by promoting a cap-and-trade system, which provides incentives to businesses that reduce carbon emissions.

As Obama noted in his address, the past 30 years have been marked by inaction and inefficiency when it comes to energy. Former Vice President Al Gore has consistently advocated for a concerted effort to tackle global warming, which he identifies as the common, albeit “ironic,” source for our economic, environmental, and national security problems.

This isn’t simply a matter of dollars and cents, or domestic politicking. Our planet and sense of security are at risk; some will suffer more than others, increasing the panorama of injustice and moral urgency. Senator Obama spoke with moving conviction on this matter: “My religious faith teaches me to take an intergenerational view, to recognize that we are borrowing this planet from our children and our grandchildren. And so we've got this obligation to them, which means that we've got to make some uncomfortable choices.”

Seeking Hearts and Minds

Alyssa Martin — Fri, 01 Aug 2008 18:05:26 EDT

Much has been made of the Obama campaign's faith outreach, especially with regard to evangelicals. People across the country are ready to reclaim what it means to be a "Values Voter," and they have found a refreshing outlet in the Obama campaign. They are playing an active role in the emerging conversation about faith, morals, and politics, discussing these matters in broad, concrete terms at American Values House Parties and via a Values Question of the Week.

We have already seen the substantive fruits of this labor on both sides of the ideological spectrum. As Cameron Strang - editor of Relevant magazine for young evangelical adults - put it in a recent article, "I've never seen this before in the Christian community. They're staunchly morally conservative still, but they're saying maybe there's a different paradigm."

Strang, a Republican who voted for Bush, said the hot topic among his readers is "broadening the definition of pro-life" to include the fight against poverty, war, disease, global warming and genocide - as well as abortion. "What I'm hearing is that out of the two candidates, one of them is pro-life on five of the six" issues, he said of Obama. "And one is pro-life on one of the six." (Lakshmanan - Bloomberg)

Even on some of these most contentious issues, people are looking to find common ground. Recalling the Compassion Forum, Obama stated, "We must acknowledge that there is a moral dimension to abortion, which I think that all too often those of us who are pro-choice have not talked about or tried to tamp down. I think that's a mistake because I think all of us understand that it is a wrenching choice for anybody to think about."

Naturally, at the end of the day, the faith outreach team wants your vote and support. But this campaign also seeks to have an impact on this critical national dialogue on religion and politics.

Seeking Hearts and Minds

Alyssa Martin — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 16:02:59 EDT

Much has been made of the Obama campaign’s faith outreach, especially with regard to evangelicals. I don’t wish to talk about the mechanics of this effort at the moment – it’s more than just mechanical. People across the country are ready to reclaim what it means to be a “Values Voter,” and they have found a refreshing outlet in the Obama campaign. They are playing an active role in the emerging conversation about faith, morals, and politics, discussing these matters in broad, concrete terms at American Values House Parties and via a Values Question of the Week.

We have already seen the substantive fruits of this labor on both sides of the ideological spectrum. As Cameron Strang – editor of Relevant magazine for young evangelical adults – put it in a recent article, “I’ve never seen this before in the Christian community. They’re staunchly morally conservative still, but they’re saying maybe there’s a different paradigm.”

Strang, a Republican who voted for Bush, said the hot topic among his readers is “broadening the definition of pro-life” to include the fight against poverty, war, disease, global warming and genocide – as well as abortion. “What I'm hearing is that out of the two candidates, one of them is pro-life on five of the six” issues, he said of Obama. “And one is pro-life on one of the six.” (Lakshmanan – Bloomberg)

Even on some of these most contentious issues, people are looking to find common ground. Recalling the Compassion Forum, Obama stated, “We must acknowledge that there is a moral dimension to abortion, which I think that all too often those of us who are pro-choice have not talked about or tried to tamp down. I think that's a mistake because I think all of us understand that it is a wrenching choice for anybody to think about.”

Naturally, at the end of the day, the faith outreach team wants your vote and support. But this campaign also seeks much more – hearts and minds.

In Your Words -- Engaging With People of Different Faiths

Alyssa Martin — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 16:57:01 EDT

Moushumi, a prominent Muslim lawyer and community activist, recently talked to me about her experience in connecting with people of different faith backgrounds:

I have always believed that to be Muslim is to engage with people of different faiths or no faith. I learned a great deal from these interactions – mostly that every faith reinforces the principle of do unto others as you would have them do unto you. My most important interfaith learning experience came from being the first Muslim Manager of my college’s Kosher-Hallal Kitchen. Mount Holyoke’s Kosher-Hallal Kitchen was unique in that it was the first of its kind to combine the dietary needs of both the Muslim and Jewish students, as it was jointly run by a Muslim and Jewish Manager. Every Wednesday, we had a dairy meal where we discussed topics like women in Islam and Judaism, and Islamic / Jewish spirituality. On Fridays, we had a Shabbat meal where I learned to love matzo ball soup and appreciate the deep Jewish heritage. This Kitchen opened in 1989 during the first Palestinian Intifada, so it was a formative experience in teaching me the importance and possibility of literally breaking bread despite our differences. I feel very fortunate to have had this positive experience so early on as it shaped my fundamental belief that no matter how intractable religious or political differences may seem, at the end of the day we are all human beings with the same basic needs and feelings.

If you are interested in reading more about what American Values Voters for Obama have to say, make sure to check out this week’s issue of the American Values Report. If you would like to sign up for the Report, please email the Religious Affairs dept. at Faith@BarackObama.com.

Faith-Based Initiatives: An Optimum Balance

Alyssa Martin — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 17:01:10 EDT

As a former faith-based community organizer, Obama understands the power of faith-based initiatives – like the Catholic Campaign for Human Development – to translate compassion into tangible improvement in the lives of ordinary Americans. As a former constitutional law professor, Obama values the separation of church and state, which has helped preserve the integrity of both religious practice and governance.

As someone with keen and intimate experience when it comes to federal-faith partnerships, Obama knows that a delicate middle ground can be struck – federal dollars toward secular, nondiscriminatory programs. An optimum balance of values – maintaining the separation of church and state while realizing the fruits of humanity and service.

Recently, there were two exceptional articles that speak on this issue. While some on both sides of the aisle have been skeptical of Obama’s plan to enhance the role of faith-based initiatives, if you take a closer look, you will appreciate the nuance and clarity behind this sensibly ideal vision. We do not need to make a trade-off between protecting the church-state separation, and protecting one another:

Faith-Based Obama [The Washington Post]:

Mr. Obama is right to want to tap into the power of faith-based groups to deliver social services. He is also right to want to prevent government funds from being used to subsidize discriminatory practices. His position strikes a sensible balance in a delicate area.

Why Obama seized the faith-based mantle [Amy Sullivan – USA Today]:

This wasn’t just a matter of political opportunism designed to remove an arrow from the GOP’s quiver. The Democratic nominee believes in the Bush program, and he’s upping the faith-based ante with fresh ideas. […]

By embracing the idea of partnerships between government and faith-based institutions, Obama isn't moving to the right so much as reclaiming an issue Democrats used to support. For decades, religiously affiliated organizations like Lutheran Social Services and United Jewish Communities received, without a hint of controversy, government funds to provide social services. […]

Values QOW -- Gauging a Candidate's Character

Alyssa Martin — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 20:23:20 EDT

This week's Values Question asked, "How do you gauge a candidate's character? What attributes are most important to you with regard to personality, life experience, and values?"

Based on the responses I received, I can tell that people care deeply about this topic. It revives the classic debate: does character actually count when it comes to presidential ability? Or should we be more concerned about policies and issues when considering performance? The vast majority of respondents believe that character is an integral component of leadership. Character does count. But how do we even begin to gauge something so elusive?

Ailene of Indiana remarks:

"Look at their past for a pattern of behavior. One or two missteps are not necessarily indicative of anything nefarious (just bears watching as a tendency). However, a pattern of behavior, especially in times of stress, pressure, or general adversity, reveals much about a person's character. In this day of instability, synthetics, and faux reality shows, people want someone real and consistent."

Likewise, Elizabeth of Texas looks for "consistency of adhering to values" as she makes sure that "a candidate's actions match their words and stated beliefs." Elizabeth went on to say:

"The major quality I think any American President should manifest is a deep personal conviction that he or she is accountable to the people, an awareness that they are not a monarch, that they are "up front" in keeping the people informed, seeking the people's will and common good."

Constancy, accountability, empathy, and compassion – all traits you identified with strong character. Someone who is more than a drone; someone who has a human side. Someone who can make a seamless transition between public and private life, rejecting disguise and charade. Applying this to Senator Obama, Linda offers the following insight: "'Dreams From My Father' gives us the best window into Obama's character and values. Character is the fruit of a life lived thoughtfully and honestly. Obama showed both of these qualities, learning from the pain and joy of his life."

Values QOW -- Gauging a Candidate's Character

Alyssa Martin — Fri, 25 Jul 2008 13:37:37 EDT

"Look at their past for a pattern of behavior. One or two missteps are not necessarily indicative of anything nefarious (just bears watching as a tendency). However, a pattern of behavior, especially in times of stress, pressure, or general adversity, reveals much about a person's character. In this day of instability, synthetics, and faux reality shows, people want someone real and consistent."

Likewise, Elizabeth of Texas looks for "consistency of adhering to values" as she makes sure that "a candidate's actions match their words and stated beliefs." Elizabeth went on to say:

"The major quality I think any American President should manifest is a deep personal conviction that he or she is accountable to the people, an awareness that they are not a monarch, that they are "up front" in keeping the people informed, seeking the people's will and common good."

Values QOW -- Gauging a Candidate's Character

Alyssa Martin — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 17:31:42 EDT

"Look at their past for a pattern of behavior. One or two missteps are not necessarily indicative of anything nefarious (just bears watching as a tendency). However, a pattern of behavior, especially in times of stress, pressure, or general adversity, reveals much about a person's character. In this day of instability, synthetics, and faux reality shows, people want someone real and consistent."

Likewise, Elizabeth of Texas looks for "consistency of adhering to values" as she makes sure that "a candidate's actions match their words and stated beliefs." Elizabeth went on to say:

"The major quality I think any American President should manifest is a deep personal conviction that he or she is accountable to the people, an awareness that they are not a monarch, that they are "up front" in keeping the people informed, seeking the people's will and common good."

Young Evangelical Christians Uniting Behind Obama

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 16:59:27 EDT

Senator Obama is making confident waves among the evangelical community. Young evangelicals have been particularly receptive to his message, as they are increasingly concerned with issues like poverty, the Iraq War, climate change, genocide in Darfur, human trafficking, and religious freedom at home and abroad.

A recent Pew Forum poll of evangelical voters found McCain's lead among evangelicals smaller than Bush's in 2004, and this has many Republicans strategists worried. U.S. News and World Report recently quoted a “major McCain fundraiser” as saying, “The evangelical movement is changing … It's moving to a bigger place.”

I’m personally excited to announce that young evangelicals will be able to carve out a “bigger place” for themselves in the Obama campaign via a website project that boldly proclaims: “Young. Evangelical. For Obama.”

The site will allow young evangelicals to unite in their support for Obama and his broad moral agenda. In addition to showing their support, the group will engage in community service projects and American Values house parties geared toward youth.

For more information, see David Brody’s preview of Obama’s Young Evangelical Outreach.

Senator Obama called on youth to rise and overcome the challenges that still obstruct us:
The previous generation, the Moses generation, pointed the way. They took us 90% of the way there. We still got that 10% in order to cross over to the other side. So the question, I guess, that I have today is what's called of us in this Joshua generation? What do we do in order to fulfill that legacy; to fulfill the obligations and the debt that we owe to those who allowed us to be here today?"

Young Evangelical Christians Uniting Behind Obama

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 16:59:09 EDT

Young Evangelical Christians Uniting Behind Obama

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 16:58:46 EDT

Young Evangelical Christians Uniting Behind Obama

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 16:58:20 EDT

Young Evangelical Christians Uniting Behind Obama

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 16:57:40 EDT

Young Evangelical Christians Uniting Behind Obama

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 16:57:03 EDT

Young Evangelical Christians Uniting Behind Obama

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 16:56:02 EDT

Young Evangelical Christians Uniting Behind Obama

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 16:55:34 EDT

Young Evangelical Christians Uniting Behind Obama

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 16:54:52 EDT

Young Evangelical Christians Uniting Behind Obama

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Young Evangelical Christians Uniting Behind Obama

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 23 Jul 2008 16:50:34 EDT

Obama to Revisit Saddleback Church

Alyssa Martin — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 16:00:34 EDT

Senators Obama and McCain will appear at Saddleback Church on August 16 as part of the “Civil Forum on Leadership and Compassion.” Pastor Rick Warren plans on keeping the talk centered around morals, addressing the scope of challenges facing the US and the world. This is not the first time Senator Obama has visited the California Megachurch – he spoke at the church on Global AIDS Day in 2006. You may recall that Senator Obama asked us to broaden the debate about combating AIDS:

[HIV/AIDS] is a test not only of our willingness to respond, but of our ability to look past the artificial divisions and debates that have often shaped that response. When you go to places like Africa and you see this problem up close, you realize that it's not a question of either treatment or prevention - or even what kind of prevention - it is all of the above. It is not an issue of either science or values - it is both.

Obama, McCain to attend joint forum at Saddleback Church

The Lake Forest megachurch’s pastor, Rick Warren, will moderate the joint appearance, which will take place on the eve of the two national party conventions. After a brief appearance together, the two candidates will separately spend an hour talking with Warren.

"This is a critical time for our nation, and the American people deserve to hear both candidates speak from the heart – without interruption – in a civil and thoughtful format absent the partisan ‘gotcha’ questions that typically produce heat instead of light," Warren said.

"The primaries proved that Americans care deeply about the faith, values, character and leadership convictions of the candidates as much as they do about the issues," Warren said.

"While I know both men as friends and they recognize I will be frank but fair, they also know I will be raising questions in these four areas beyond what political reporters typically ask. This includes pressing issues that are bridging divides in our nation, such as poverty, HIV/AIDS, climate and human rights."

The Value of Self-Reflection

Alyssa Martin — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 19:20:31 EDT

Most of us are creatures of habit. We settle on a plan, or a line of thought, and we seldom deviate. Jason was a single issue, single party voter in strongly Republican territory. He never ventured outside of party lines, in thought or deed. He was driven by a sense of certainty and conviction, but he rarely paused to consider “Why?” After voting for President Bush twice, he now dons an Obama t-shirt and respectfully challenges the one-issue, one-party mentality.

That doesn’t mean he’s “hitched his wagon to the Democratic party,” or that he no longer cares about the issue in question, but he has done what many of us are reticent to do: he challenged himself. He sought a reason and purpose behind his actions. Regardless of where you fall on the ideological spectrum, the exercise of revisiting and renewing your motives can be highly worthwhile, as Jason found. It has prompted him to expand beyond one issue, as he now conceives of his faith in a broader social sense. Jason’s message to you: be confident in your ability to discern what’s right and wrong without falling back on routine, or relying on what the people around you are saying.

I know – easier said than done. Last year I was a sophomore, which technically means “wise fool.” The implication is that as a sophomore, you accumulate some knowledge, but it goes to your head, giving you a false sense of certitude and wisdom. Perhaps the sentiment is best expressed by Mark Twain: “When I was a boy of 14, my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand to have the old man around. But when I got to be 21, I was astonished at how much the old man had learned in seven years.” It’s not easy to admit that we have some learning and reflecting to do, that our conception of the universe may not be perfect.

It’s a lesson worth coming back to: “challenge your own thought process.”

Senator Obama is not immune to this lesson. He once received an email from a doctor asking him to use “fair-minded words” when addressing sensitive, moral issues. Rather than stick to “standard Democratic boilerplate language,” Senator Obama took the doctor’s message to heart and scrubbed his website of the offensive terms. He was not afraid to challenge the conventional wisdom, or the conventional politics. Obama realized that part of being fair-minded is being open-minded, which calls for genuine self-reflection.

American Values Report

Alyssa Martin — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 20:03:13 EDT

The Religious Affairs department has put together a newsletter called the “American Values Report,” which contains top news stories, interviews with people of faith, and commentary on faith and politics. We’re excited to bring you this week’s issue as it addresses a range of social and moral issues. Other highlights include:

How Barack Obama plans to move forward on the foreign policy front with his briefing on “A New Strategy for a New World”
Insight into Obama’s faith and the faith outreach program
An interview with Naomi, who is from a Reform Jewish background. She wonders why those who often quote scripture in the public square tend to bypass the parts about immigration: “The stranger among you shall be to you as the native born, for you know the ways of the stranger, having yourselves been strangers in the land of Egypt.”
An interview with Jason Herron, who is from a Pentecostal Assembly of God background. A former “one issue,” single party voter, he now urges, “challenge your own thought process. Be confident in your ability discern what’s right and wrong without relying on what the people around you are saying.”
Responses to the Values Question of the Week on the country’s moral agenda
Ways to get further involved in the campaign as an American Values supporter!

If you are interested in subscribing to the American Values Report, please send an email to Faith@BarackObama.com. This is the most comprehensive report we have for all values news as they relate to the Obama campaign.

Extending An Olive Branch

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 17:13:47 EDT

In an article appearing in USA Today, Tom Krattenmaker uses theological and practical evidence to show the peaceful side of religion. Elements of “just war” theory – just cause, right intention, last resort, proportionality – exist in many religious traditions. Peacemakers are extolled. In practice, initiatives like Interfaith Youth Core, Seeds of Peace, and “A Common Word Between Us and You” are all about embracing the humanity of everyone, regardless of faith background. They inspire Christians like Greg Mortenson to venture into the Middle East bringing “books not bombs,” as his initiative builds schools in poor areas of Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Religion can help end wars, too

Faith is sometimes the fuel that feeds conflict and spreads strife. History is a witness to this. But lest we forget, believers also can be the salve to bring people and religions back together.

Religion — a solution to the problem of religiously motivated conflict and violence? Yes, actually. Because in their best traditions, the world's two dominant faiths do promote peace, both through their central teachings and the lessons-by-example taught every day by innumerable Muslims and Christians who take their scriptures seriously.

Yet if skeptics are going to hold religion accountable for the atrocities committed under the banners of faith, so, too, must they credit religion for the unifying and uplifting deeds performed in its name. We cannot dismiss the countless acts of compassion and peace-making by devout believers — acts that are central to the teachings of the Bible, Koran and other holy books.

So how we will know religion in the final analysis? By its peace or by its violence? The scriptures have had their say. It's now up to the believers — through their words and works — to settle the account.

Extending An Olive Branch

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 16 Jul 2008 17:10:00 EDT

Faith is sometimes the fuel that feeds conflict and spreads strife. History is a witness to this. But lest we forget, believers also can be the salve to bring people and religions back together.

Religion — a solution to the problem of religiously motivated conflict and violence? Yes, actually. Because in their best traditions, the world's two dominant faiths do promote peace, both through their central teachings and the lessons-by-example taught every day by innumerable Muslims and Christians who take their scriptures seriously.

Yet if skeptics are going to hold religion accountable for the atrocities committed under the banners of faith, so, too, must they credit religion for the unifying and uplifting deeds performed in its name. We cannot dismiss the countless acts of compassion and peace-making by devout believers — acts that are central to the teachings of the Bible, Koran and other holy books.

So how we will know religion in the final analysis? By its peace or by its violence? The scriptures have had their say. It's now up to the believers — through their words and works — to settle the account.

Colorado House Party

Alyssa Martin — Tue, 15 Jul 2008 16:38:35 EDT

In Colorado Springs, Terri and Debbie hosted a successful, albeit atypical, house party – an American Values House Party.

It began as a group of 20 curious guests gathered in their living room. In addition to being Terri and Debbie’s home, Colorado Springs is home to a large military apparatus of Air Force and Army bases. This backdrop helped influence the nature of discussion, as Karen and John drew upon their military experience when talking about their story.

Part of the way the American Values House Party encourages discussion is by focusing on stories instead of just issues. How do media-driven issues play out in our daily lives? Karen and John expressed their unique story on the issue of health care. Their son has a health disorder, and they are concerned that as he gets older, how will the benefits for retired military be set up? Their son will need long-term care. They are worried that they may not be able to afford it or be able to take care of him themselves, as any devoted parent would want. This affects them dearly in the context of their faith and values, which taught them about taking care of your own.

The guests felt comfortable talking in a large group. They did not feel compelled to break into small groups when discussing topics like “What can the next President do for your faith?” This question caused guests to contemplate their values in relation to politics, as they took turns in responding. Honesty. Listening. Unity. In effect, the goals of the house party were reflected in what the people said they want from their next President. They spoke of changing the tone in Washington, which tends to be combative and fractured.

Based on the discussion, the participants also wanted a change of policy in Washington. As Barack Obama once stated, “We’ve had politicians in Washington talk about family values, but we haven’t had policies that value families.” How can the next President help your family? One woman talked about reinvigorating education in this country by paying teachers who demonstrate a willingness to work and improve. She also pushed for more parental involvement in the education system. Teachers should enfranchise parents, bringing them into the fold of their children’s learning.

On a final note, the guests contemplated how they can take personal responsibility for some of our country’s challenges. When the recent increase in gas prices was brought up, the people did not jump to assign blame or find a scapegoat. Instead, they talked about the value of self-discipline through staying at home more often and saving energy.

We would like to thank the hosts and guests for making the American Values House Party in Colorado a meaningful experience, and for providing a sterling example for future house parties. If you would like to add to this already growing discourse by hosting your own American Values House Party, email us at Faith@BarackObama.com.

Host an American Values House Party!

Alyssa Martin — Fri, 11 Jul 2008 16:16:35 EDT

I was taught that there are two subjects you don’t broach in front of company: politics and religion. Although I understood the logic behind this argument, I remember thinking, “But these are the subjects that actually matter! They motivate and direct us, whether or not we acknowledge their power in conversation.” Unfortunately, silence can breed misconceptions – like who counts as a “values voter.”

For the sake of honesty and common growth, supporters of Senator Obama will begin hosting American Values House Parties, which will open dialogue on the “elephants in the room” and bridge religious – political divides.

American Values House Parties are small gatherings you host in your home or in another location (library, school, etc). You invite your fellow worshipers, community members, friends and family to come share in an invigorating discussion about faith and values in America; Barack Obama's perspective on these issues; and how we can work together to find common ground.

We'll provide you with a curriculum and DVD and give you all the guidance you need to make the party a success. These parties are the most important thing we do to build the "ties that bind" in communities across the country and engage communities of faith in Senator Obama's campaign.

If you are interested in hosting a party, or have any questions, please contact us at FAITH@BARACKOBAMA.COM with the subject line “American Values House Party.”

What does an American Values House Party actually look like? See an insider’s perspective on a house party in Cincinnati: Obama campaign talks faith and values

Values QOW -- What's On Your "Moral Radar"?

Alyssa Martin — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 16:54:37 EDT

This week’s Values Question prompted many animated and diverse responses:

“Are there any moral issues that you believe should get more prominent attention? Are there any moral issues that have received too much attention?”

Even though this question was fairly broad in scope, some common themes emerged from your responses: we should focus more on issues of “social justice,” like poverty and inequity; we should focus more on issues of environmental stewardship; we tend to focus too much on issues of “personal sexual morality”; all issues related to life are essentially moral issues, and thus deserve our utmost attention.

David of Highland Park, IL outlined some of these core ideas:

“We must always remember that each person is of infinite value. With that as a guiding principle, then of course we make sure that:
Every person has a good education
Every person has an opportunity for meaningful employment at a living wage
Disease is conquered, and, in the meantime, all who are ill are cared for and treated
We are better at creating peace than we are at waging war
We find ways of keeping a civil society without incarcerating so many people, and that even those that are in jail are safe and given an opportunity to lead meaningful lives.
In short, in every way, that all people are treated as equals. Put another way, love your neighbor as yourself.”

The value you placed on poverty reduction coincides with a recent poll dispelling the notion that Americans don’t care about this issue (LINK). In that survey, 56% of respondents disagree with the statement that the media spent "an adequate amount of time during the presidential campaign covering the issue of how to fight poverty in the U.S."

Anne of Ohio reaffirmed this “social justice” emphasis, but wishes the Democratic party would expand its platform to cover abortion:

“Catholic Christians have long been known for their ‘option for the poor,’ their support of the working class, their ‘just war’ theory, their stance against capital punishment and euthanasia, and many other social justice issues. Years ago, the Democratic party was considered the party most in harmony with the teachings of the Catholic church. I believe it still is that party…except for the platform regarding abortion. I know there are many pro-life Democrats. Is it possible that our voices will ever be heard?”

While several people framed their opinions in religious terms, many simply noted that every issue is a moral issue. We may hold certain causes “near and dear” to us, but almost anything can be shown to have moral, human implications. Nevertheless, based on your input, most people view poverty as an ever more pressing issue to unify against.

Greetings

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 16:01:58 EDT

Hello, all!

My name is Alyssa Martin, and I will be providing regular updates on the Faith-Action-Change blog as an intern with the Religious Affairs dept. of the Obama campaign. I am enthusiastic about this role because I believe we urgently need to foster an open dialogue among people of faith and conscience. This belief stems from my own multifaceted experience with religion. Raised Catholic, I've encountered Hinduism in my grandparents, and have formed close bonds with fellow Jewish, Muslim, and Protestant students at Stanford University. In addition, I have promoted dialogue among those with a purely academic interest in religion via a seminar entitled "Politically Incorrect: Let's Talk About Religion."

I encourage you to check out the Faith-Action-Change blog for news of faith in politics as it relates to the Obama campaign. I look forward to your responses!

Warmly,

Alyssa Martin
Religious Affairs Intern
Obama for America

Greetings

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 16:01:39 EDT

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Help Us Draft Our Platform

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 11:52:23 EDT

Someone recently asked me whether or not this was a “listening campaign.” Rather than explain why I think this campaign does in fact listen, we would like to show you by giving you a voice in drafting our platform. What issues are on your “moral radar”? We value your input on matters of faith and conscience.

Every four years, the Democratic Party assembles a platform that outlines the party's position on a number of issues. Traditionally, the drafting of the platform is not open to ordinary people. This year, that's going to change.

For two weeks in July, people all across America will hold Platform Meetings in their own communities to discuss the issues and share their input. The outcome of these meetings will be reviewed by the Drafting Committee as it creates the final Platform.

No political experience is required. Your thoughts and experiences are all that matter, and they will shape a platform that -- like this campaign -- is owned by the people.

Sign up to host or attend a Platform Meeting in your neighborhood:

http://my.barackobama.com/listening

This year, ordinary people like you will gather in their homes, community centers, places of worship, and even coffee shops to discuss the issues that matter to them and help decide what should be at the heart of the Democratic platform for change.

The input we get from these meetings will help shape the platform at the Democratic Convention in August.

Platform Meetings are a great way to connect with fellow supporters and help write the next chapter in the history of the Democratic Party. We'll make sure you have all the resources and support you need to succeed. All you need to provide are your ideas for America and your hunger for change.

To get started in your community, just log onto My.BarackObama.com and go to our Platform Meetings page. (If you don't have a My.BarackObama.com account, creating one is simple and easy.)

Sign up to host or attend a Platform Meeting now:

http://my.barackobama.com/listening

I hope you'll take advantage of this opportunity to make your voice heard in the political process.

Thank you for all that you do,
Barack

Complex Challenges

Alyssa Martin — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 16:58:34 EDT

Hope does not overlook hardship, and a recent report by Jeffrey Sachs indicates that hardship is in large supply. Unfortunately, many of the world’s problems are interconnected, leaving no quick fixes. According to one Haitian proverb, “Giving people medicine without food is like washing your hands and drying them in the dirt.” In other words, the problems of the 21st century will require comprehensive solutions aimed at underlying causes, rather than symptoms.

Land, Water, and Conflict

“The world will experience a growing risk of conflicts over food, energy and water in coming years. The population rises each year by about 80 million people, with most of the increase in impoverished regions already facing environmental stress. Climate change, water scarcity and tighter oil supplies will add to the stresses. As violence increases, in new crises resembling those now underway in Darfur, Somalia and Afghanistan, the tendency might be to look to the military for solutions. We'll need to keep in mind that engineers and doctors will be the only ones who can truly keep us safe.

Hundreds of millions of people live on the margin of survival, and their numbers will increase if we continue on our current trajectory. The poorest of the poor tend to be found in remote, environmentally stressed regions, such as the drylands of Africa, the Middle East and Central Asia…

“Real solutions will require bold investments in sustainable development. The United States, Europe, China, India and wealthy oil states will have to join forces to help conflict-prone parts of Africa, the Middle East and Asia to raise food output, increase access to education and family planning, and improve productivity through investments in roads, power, irrigation and telecommunications.”

Senator Obama understands this, but also acknowledges that the challenges of war, poverty, and education are not simply “technical problems.” These are moral problems that require bold investment and broad mobilization. We can’t afford to leave people on the “outskirts of hope,” which is why we need a leader who isn’t fazed by complex challenges.

Community Organizer, Inside-Out

Alyssa Martin — Mon, 07 Jul 2008 19:11:46 EDT

Words, words, words, some say. Change, unity, hope. Where's the meat? When people ask me something to that effect, I point them to Senator Obama's life experiences, and the very human principles he embodies as a result of those experiences. The stirrings of change, the roots of unity, and the buds of hope often can be traced to Obama's formative years as a community organizer in Chicago. In his book "Dreams from My Father," we see some themes emerge from this "searing" experience: change is bottom-up; better to build alliances than alienate people; hope does not overlook hardship. For those seeking concrete evidence of "change we can believe in," look at what he believes in, and look how he translates that belief into action – connecting with people from all walks of life.

In Organizing, Obama Led While Finding His Place

The year was 1985 and Gerald Kellman, a community organizer, was interviewing an applicant named Barack Obama to work in the demoralized landscape of poor neighborhoods on this city's South Side. He liked the young man's intelligence, motivation and acutely personal understanding of how it felt to be an outsider. He also remembers that Mr. Obama drove a hard bargain.

"He challenged me on whether we could teach him anything," Mr. Kellman recalled. "He wanted to know things like 'How are you going to train me?' and 'What am I going to learn?'"

Mr. Obama's three-year stretch as a grass-roots organizer has figured prominently, if not profoundly, in his own narrative of his life. Campaigning in Iowa, Mr. Obama called it "the best education I ever had, better than anything I got at Harvard Law School," an education that he said was "seared into my brain." […]

In recent days, Mr. Obama has imbued those years with even greater significance, invoking them last week as inspiration for his plan to deliver social services through religious organizations. He told a conference of the African Methodist Episcopal Church on Saturday that as a community organizer he "let Jesus Christ into my life" and "I dedicated myself to discovering his truth and carrying out his works."

Relevant Interview with Senator Obama

Alyssa Martin — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 16:53:02 EDT

Following his address on faith-based initiatives, Senator Obama answered the burning questions on many peoples' minds, ranging from the subject of his address to abortion. Cameron Strang of Relevant magazine conducted the interview, which we encourage you to take a look at:

Relevant Interview with Senator Obama

Strang: Your plan [with faith-based initiatives] specifically prohibits discriminatory hiring policies based on religion. Don't you think faith-based organizations that would otherwise want to join this program would bristle at the limitation that they can't hire a staff that reflects their organization's values?

Obama: I think it's important to distinguish between people who are hired as part of a church to carry out that church's mission or ministries, or administer the church. There's always a religious exemption there from Title VII. It's important for us to make sure that a Christian church can hire Christians or a Jewish church can hire people of the Jewish faith. That's different from programs that are specifically funded by the federal government and offered to the public. […] And that's not going to encroach on the ability of those faith-based organizations to do what they need to do when it comes to their core religious mission. They are going to be able to hire and carry out those functions of a church, or synagogue, mosque or temple, but they can also participate in federal programs as long as those are done in a way that is not encroaching on a separation of church and state, is open to the public and is not involved in proselytizing.

Strang: Based on emails we received, another issue of deep importance to our readers is a candidate's stance on abortion. We largely know your platform, but there seems to be some real confusion about your position on third-trimester and partial-birth abortions. Can you clarify your stance for us?

Obama: I absolutely can, so please don't believe the emails. I have repeatedly said that I think it's entirely appropriate for states to restrict or even prohibit late-term abortions as long as there is a strict, well-defined exception for the health of the mother. Now, I don't think that "mental distress" qualifies as the health of the mother. I think it has to be a serious physical issue that arises in pregnancy, where there are real, significant problems to the mother carrying that child to term. Otherwise, as long as there is such a medical exception in place, I think we can prohibit late-term abortions….

The Catholic Bloc

Alyssa Martin — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 11:35:56 EDT

A recent TIME article called them the “holy grail” for presidential candidates. Catholics – a critical swing group with a peculiar habit of being on the “winner’s side.” In eight out of the past nine elections, the winner received a majority of Catholic votes (with the exception of Al Gore). A new Pew report, highlighting the fluidity of America’s religious landscape, revealed that after voting for Bush in 2004, Catholics are now shifting Democratic by a margin of 48-33%.

What issues are on the minds of Catholic voters this election season? How are they balancing multiple issues of moral value? The TIME article below gives us insight into one Douglas Kmiec, a contemplative Catholic who surprised many when he declared his support for Senator Obama:

The Battle for Catholic Voters

"Douglas Kmiec is the kind of Catholic voter the GOP usually doesn't have to think twice about. The Pepperdine law professor and former Reagan Justice Department lawyer (Samuel Alito was an office mate) attends Mass each morning. He has actively opposed abortion for most of his adult life, working with crisis pregnancy centers to persuade women not to undergo the procedure. He is a member of the conservative Federalist Society and occasionally sends a contribution to Focus on the Family.

He is also a vocal supporter of Barack Obama. Kmiec made waves in the Catholic world in late March when he endorsed the Democratic candidate. But Kmiec insists that while he still considers himself a Republican, his choice is clear this election year. ‘I have grave moral doubts about the war, serious doubts about the economic course Republicans have followed over the last seven years, and believe that immigration reforms won't come about by Republican hands,’ he says. ‘Senator McCain would not be the strongest advocate for the balance of things that I care about.’" [...]

"The American bishops also made an effort to broaden their teaching. In the fall of 2007, they released Faithful Citizenship: A Call to Political Responsibility, an unusual document that counsels against divisive politics and reminds Catholics that ‘all life issues are connected.’ Such statements have cleared the way for Catholics like Kmiec to re-evaluate what it means to cast a pro-life vote. ‘It's been 20-some years of trying to get the next vote on the court to overturn Roe,’ says Kmiec, ‘and I asked myself, What does that amount to?’ He worries that by backing the GOP strategy of holding out for a ban on abortion, pro-life voters have not focused on more pragmatic ways to reduce abortion rates." [...]

"Obama, whose work as a community organizer was partly funded by a Catholic social-justice group, recently laid out his plan for a new and improved faith-based initiative. It is a policy extension of the phrase he often uses—"I am my brother's keeper"—to express his belief that members of a society are responsible for one another. And it is an idea rooted in the Catholic concept of the common good. This "bottom-up, personal responsibility" message, as he describes it, appeals to Kmiec, allowing him to be not just a McCain skeptic but also an Obama supporter."

In Your Words -- Why Do You Support Senator Obama?

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 14:14:45 EDT

Grant Gallicho, Associate Editor of Commonweal Magazine – a Catholic review of “religion, politics, and culture”:

Why do you, as a person of faith and conscience, support Senator Obama?

“Charity. Without sacrificing the toughness a successful political campaign must show, Sen. Obama has demonstrated that a candidate need not demonize his or her ideological opponent in order to win votes. The virtue of charity, as any cable-news watcher knows, is in short supply in our political culture. Sen. Obama's remarkable 2006 speech about faith and politics may prove to be a watershed moment for the post-Bush Democrats. I can't count the number of friends and family members who contacted me with something approaching awe that a Democrat would speak so movingly and authentically about the legitimate role of religious values in our political discourse. A lot of Catholics I know hadn't heard a Democrat speak so, well, charitably about religion in decades.”

Photos from Eastside Community Ministry, where Obama spoke on Faith-Based Initiatives

Alyssa Martin — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 18:24:14 EDT

Senator Barack Obama appeared today at Eastside Community Ministry in Zanesville, OH. Before speaking on the subject of faith-based initiatives, Obama toured Eastside Community Ministry, a group that seeks to "break the cycle of poverty" through individual and community assistance. Smiles were in large supply as Obama interacted with children at the Ministry. Obama also conversed with Ministry leaders, who he believes should become active partners with the government in meeting the challenges of the 21st century.

Senator Obama Addresses Faith-Based Initiatives

Alyssa Martin — Tue, 01 Jul 2008 14:53:52 EDT

Today, Senator Obama gave a momentous and timely speech on the future of faith-based initiatives. Obama spoke with immense personal experience and conviction, arising from his work as a community organizer. Senator Obama notes:

I believe that change comes not from the top-down, but from the bottom-up, and few are closer to the people than our churches, synagogues, temples, and mosques. That’s why Washington needs to draw on them. The fact is, the challenges we face today – from saving our planet to ending poverty – are simply too big for government to solve alone. We need all hands on deck.

Senator Obama does not intend to diminish the work of secular initiatives, but instead wants to unite all forces – all hands – in rising to the challenges of the 21st century.

While President Bush may have established the Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives with these intentions in mind, the Office has not lived up to its promise. Senator Obama affirms:

Support for social services to the poor and the needy have been consistently underfunded. Rather than promoting the cause of all faith-based organizations, former officials in the Office have described how it was used to promote partisan interests.
Well, I still believe it’s a good idea to have a partnership between the White House and grassroots groups, both faith-based and secular. But it has to be a real partnership – not a photo-op. And that’s what it will be when I’m President.

However, as a former constitutional law professor, Senator Obama will not trespass on the separation between church and state. He appreciates the separation as preserving not only the integrity of the state, but also and more essentially, the integrity of religious practice. As such, he lays down some ground rules for future faith-based initiatives:

First, if you get a federal grant, you can’t use that grant money to proselytize to the people you help and you can’t discriminate against them – or against the people you hire – on the basis of their religion. Second, federal dollars that go directly to churches, temples, and mosques can only be used on secular programs. And we’ll also ensure that taxpayer dollars only go to those programs that actually work.

Senator Obama wants to renew our commitment to faith-based partnerships by creating a new Office, which will have moral authority and the ability to empower, from the grass-roots up:

I’ll establish a new Council for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships. The new name will reflect a new commitment. This Council will not just be another name on the White House organization chart – it will be a critical part of my administration.
And my Council for Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships will also have a broader role – it will help set our national agenda. Because if we are going to do something about the injustice of millions of children living in extreme poverty, we need interfaith coalitions like the Let Justice Roll campaign standing up for the powerless. If we’re going to end genocide and stop the scourge of HIV/AIDS, we need people of faith on Capitol Hill talking about how these challenges don’t just represent a security crisis or a humanitarian crisis, but a moral crisis as well.

In addition to its broader moral role, this Council will also strengthen faith-based groups by “making sure they know the opportunities open to them to build on their good works.” Senator Obama will empower already established and successful organizations to “pay it forward” and train smaller organizations in order to create real, bottom-up ‘armies of compassion.’

John DiIulio, the first Director of the Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives, had this to say about Senator Obama’s proposed reforms:

Senator Barack Obama has offered a principled, prudent, and problem-solving vision for the future of community-serving partnerships involving religious nonprofit organizations. He has focused admirably on those groups that supply vital social services to people and communities in need. His plan reminds me of much that was best in both then Vice President Al Gore's and then Texas Governor George W. Bush's respective first speeches on the subject in 1999. Especially in urban America, all the empirical evidence continues to show that local faith-based organizations can make a measurable civic difference. His constitutionally sound and administratively feasible ideas about community-serving partnerships hold special promise for truly disadvantaged children, youth, and families. Many good community-serving initiatives can be built, expanded, or sustained on the common ground that Senator Obama has staked out for us here.

We invite your comments on the Senator’s address.

Global Leadership

Alyssa Martin — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 19:47:15 EDT

Senator Obama plans to prove his presidential mettle by embarking on a foreign tour of Europe and the Middle East. One hopes that the next President will understand the religious and ideological climate of the regions he visits.

Obama Plans Trip to Europe, Mideast

“Senator Barack Obama will make his first foreign trip as a presidential candidate next month when he travels to the Middle East and Europe, his campaign announced today.

Mr. Obama, the presumptive Democratic nominee, will visit Jordan, Israel, Germany, France and the United Kingdom. On a separate trip, he is also planning to visit American troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, but aides declined to disclose those details for security reasons.

‘This trip will be an important opportunity for me to assess the situation in countries that are critical to American national security,’ Mr. Obama said in a statement, ‘and to consult with some of our closest friends and allies about the common challenges we face.’”

Senator Obama’s worldly background gives him a unique ability to engage with other countries. As he often quotes from John F. Kennedy, “Let us never negotiate out of fear, but let us never fear to negotiate.” On matters of national security, it becomes all the more critical for a leader to understand the social environment in which he is dealing. Meeting the challenge requires knowing the turf. Especially when the turf is largely carved by religion.

Values Question of the Week

Alyssa Martin — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 14:57:30 EDT

I received many wonderful and thought-provoking responses to the Values Question of the Week:

"What sacrifices should be made in order to have fruitful interfaith dialogue (including people of
non-faith backgrounds)? Should we even make a sacrifice, or does sacrifice for dialogue's sake
dilute our faith?"

Ms. Jacqueline Jill Rito of East Meadow New York took a philosophical approach:

"No sacrifice made in earnest is wasted. If the goal of dialogue is understanding, peace, and acceptance, then working towards this end from an interfaith standpoint is an objective worth pursuing. It is important for each of us representing various faiths to embrace that part of each faith that seeks to unify rather than divide, and create alliances and understandings rather than adversity and division. There are principles within each organized religion, within each religion's interpretation, for this kind of connection.

The sacrifice is sometimes being willing enough to look into the eye of your brother and sister and therein see your own reflection."

Mr. Michael Mills of Midland Texas took a personal approach:

"The sacrifice that I would see for me is a sacrifice of self, with my ego and insatiable need to be right. I am discovering that I seek to have others around me justify my existence and sense of worth in that I want to surround myself with people who think like I think and who have views on life and faith that justify my correctness.

For too many years I could not have a genuine interfaith dialogue! Why? Because I was personally threatened by someone who had views that are different than my own or different than the culture I was living in at the time. To accept their difference was to dismantle my identity and my own sense of values and purposes.

Interfaith dialogue for me is actually a step of faith and growth. It reflects an attitude of humility in realizing that I do not have God and faith all figured out. It allows me to see things from a totally different perspective, and it stretches me by placing me where I do not always feel safe and secure. Personally, this journey has been an amazing one of release, trust and learning to love!"

The responses I saw tended toward a common theme: the tension between unity and diversity. While many praised interfaith dialogue as a means to promote unity and mutual respect, some expressed concern that this would result in "sameness," or a loss of individual identity. In effect, we would have to sacrifice a bit of diversity of belief. Nonetheless, several people did not view this is a sacrifice, but saw it as a positive step toward peace and reconciliation.

Here's the rub: how do we promote an idea of unity without drifting toward sameness? How do we affirm unity while preserving valuable differences?

The "Value Issues"

Alyssa Martin — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 14:57:03 EDT

In recent news, the Christian Coalition of Alabama seeks to broaden the universe of Christian moral responsibility by giving greater weight to the issue of health care access.

--Christian Coalition lobbies for uninsured--

Article link: http://www.al.com/news/press-register/index.ssf?/base/news/1213780612190380.xml&coll=3

“The event may defy conventional wisdom about Christian Coalition priorities and partnerships, but it is only the latest example of what the group's leader says is an effort to expand its focus.

‘Yes, we're ardently pro-life. Yes, we're ardently for marriage,’ said Dr. Randy Brinson, chairman of the state Christian Coalition. ‘But beyond just that, there's other moral failings that are having (an) impact. ... Not enough emphasis is put on that.’

One such problem is the number of people who lack medical care because they are uninsured or underinsured, said Brinson, a Montgomery physician and lifelong Republican, during a news conference with state Sen. Linda Coleman, D-Birmingham. Brinson and Coleman said the rising cost of gas and food exacerbate the plight of the uninsured, forcing them to choose between transportation, sustenance and basic medical care.”

Who dictates the “value issues”? The Christian Coalition of Alabama has had to confront this question head-on, as they have received criticism for diverting attention away from other hot-button issues.

For people of faith and conscience, policy issues generally fit into a larger narrative, a greater creed so to speak. Putting that creed or philosophy into tangible motion begs the question: how do we weigh many issues of great personal value?

A Testament to Change

Alyssa Martin — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 19:35:30 EDT

Rather than pursue a strategy of avoidance, Senator Obama has affirmatively sought to include evangelicals, a voting bloc that many dismiss as “out of reach” for him.

--Obama Steps Up Outreach to Evangelicals--

Article link: http://www.usatoday.com/news/politics/election2008/2008-06-18-obama-evangelicals_N.htm

“It's a move that's caught off guard some conservative evangelicals, who say they are surprised and dismayed to see a progressive-minded politician attempting to conscript their troops. At the same time, they say Sen. John McCain has done little to court their affections.

"I've never seen anything quite like it before," said evangelical author Stephen Mansfield, who wrote The Faith of George W. Bush and has a forthcoming similar book about Obama.

"To be running against a dyed-in-the-wool Republican, and to be reaching into the Christian community as wisely and knowledgeably as (Obama) is — understanding their terms and their values — is just remarkable.”

What I personally find remarkable about this effort is the ease and style with which Senator Obama approaches people who may or may not share his positions. Simply disagreeing leaves no room for movement; agreeing to disagree at least paves the way for further engagement.

Is it working? Some say that the polls have remained static (see article). But there’s promise in that the outreach is not merely nominal. By “understanding their terms and values,” Senator Obama seeks to effectively mediate rather than mandate.

Greetings

Alyssa Martin — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 18:07:18 EDT

Hello, all!

My name is Alyssa Martin, and I’m excited to be interning with the Religious Affairs department of the Obama campaign. I will be posting regular updates on the Faith-Action-Change blog, and I look forward to having many positive faith-based discussions over the course of the summer. But first, allow me to introduce myself:

Originally from heartland Nebraska, I am a rising junior at Stanford University. I plan to double major in International Relations and Religious Studies, though I’d be lying if I said this originated from a purely academic interest. Raised Catholic by my father, I don’t recall the newness of mass – for all intents and purposes, I woke up one day with the entire Catholic service ingrained into my being, ready at a Sunday’s notice. However, my faith goes beyond regurgitation, as it informs my inner convictions and outer spirit.

To give you a fuller, more authentic, introduction of myself, I would have to mention my experience with other religious traditions as well. As a young girl, I would watch my Hindu grandparents do puja (prayer), not knowing that I would have the opportunity to observe its roots in India, where religion is omnipresent. I went from knowing 3 Jewish people in Nebraska to becoming involved in Israeli-Palestinian events on campus with my 2 Jewish best friends. I attended an overseas seminar in Italy regarding Judeo-Christian relations, and promoted interfaith dialogue on campus.

Ultimately, I found myself drawn to Obama’s appeal to people of all faith backgrounds. A committed Christian, he does not eschew the topic of religion, but embraces it in a straightforward, refreshing manner. Theologian Reinhold Niebuhr once said, “Power without love is brutality, but love without power is mere sentimentality.” By organizing people of all backgrounds from the grass-roots up, Obama bridges love and power, faith and action. By opting to visit California’s Saddleback Church instead of a more “conventional” stronghold, he challenges typical slice-and-dice politics by seeking unity – which is something that I, a person of faith, can truly believe in.

I look forward to communicating with you all this summer!

With warm blessings,

Alyssa

Greetings

Alyssa Martin — Fri, 20 Jun 2008 12:43:04 EDT

Hello, all!

My name is Alyssa Martin, and I’m excited to be interning with the Religious Affairs department of the Obama campaign. I will be posting regular updates, and I look forward to having many positive faith-based discussions over the course of the summer. But first, allow me to introduce myself:

I look forward to communicating with you all this summer!

With warm blessings,

Alyssa