Senator Barack Obama thinks that religion and faith have a place in American politics. He was all praises for people of faith who he felt were using their influence to unite people across America against issues like poverty, AIDS, health care and Darfur.
This was mentioned by Obama while he was addressing the 50th anniversary convention of United Church of Christ, Obama’s denomination on June 22, 2007.
Obama feels faith was being used by many to divide the country by taking advantage of issues like abortion, and same-sex marriages.
The United Church of Christ, the denomination that Obama belongs to, has a diverse range of members. It welcomes people from racial minorities, gay and lesbian community, and those with disabilities. In 1972, the church became the first major Protestant denomination to ordain an openly gay minister, and two years ago it started supporting equal marriage rights for same-sex couples.
The church leaders said that by giving Obama an opportunity to speak did not mean it was an endorsement of the church’s support for Obama. The leaders had asked the people who were coming to hear Obama not to bring any campaign buttons or signs.
During his 45-minute speech, Obama reminded people that the United Church of Christ and many other churches played an active role in the American Revolution, abolition and civil rights movements. But he felt that somewhere along the way, faith started being used to drive a wedge between people.
However, he now says, in his travel across the country, he is getting a feeling that that people are awakening and accepting other faiths and beliefs.
He informed those present that he intended to sign a bill on universal health care when he becomes the president. He also wanted the Guantanamo Bay detainee facility to be closed and American troops withdrawn from Iraq.
With regard to the immigration bill, Obama said illegal immigrants should get a chance to earn their US citizenship.
