By Bob Allen
A diverse group of faith leaders wrote President Obama Nov. 13 to congratulate him on his re-election and pledge to work with the administration during the next four years to help the nation “live up to the promise of liberty and justice for all.”
Brent Walker of the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty, Roy Medley and Aidsand Wright-Riggins of American Baptist Churches USA, and Progressive National Baptist Convention interim General Secretary Ralph Canty were among 30 signees representing Christian, Jewish and Muslim organizations.
The faith leaders outlined challenges facing the president including environmental degradation, economic injustice, violations of human rights and peacekeeping in a divided world.
“We commit ourselves to supporting initiatives to enact just and compassionate policies that will serve the common good, strengthen our commitments to care for each other and ensure that there is enough for everyone,” the faith leaders said.
“Since budgets are statements of our shared priorities, we look forward to working with you to create a faithful budget — one that responds to the needs of all people, especially for those struggling with poverty, illness and other conditions of vulnerability,” the religious leaders said. “Adequate revenue is essential to such a budget, so that our nation might live into our shared commitment to empower everyone to be free from need and from fear.”
The group pledged prayers from people of faith across the nation for Obama and the administration “as you continue the important work of public service on behalf of a more just, peaceful and compassionate world.”