IN THEORY:Are religious groups too political?

The Internal Revenue Service reported that complaints about improper politicking jumped 43% in the 2006 elections compared to 2004. The IRS attributed the jump to its public-awareness campaign on what’s considered appropriate politicking for religious leaders. Do you agree, or do you think religious organizations have become too politicized over the last few years?

The news a few days ago was about how “religious” all the candidates had suddenly become, especially the Democrats. I have always felt uncomfortable with a politician’s hands being tied behind their back in regards to expressing their faith. I am more discomfortable with religious groups becoming the pit bulls of a political party and its agenda. Whether we are talking about Rev. Jesse Jackson, U.S. Sen. Joe Lieberman, broadcaster Pat Robertson or presidential hopeful Mitt Romney speaking from the pulpits of their faith groups, I would have a problem with them being presented as the Jewish, Baptist, Pentecostal, Mormon or Muslim choice for president. I do not have a problem with these people being brought into the forum of faith and having a discussion about how faith affects their decisions or how decisions can be made from the conscience of one’s faith that do not violate the tenets of others in our nation who follow another faith. At the same time, my job is to help my people understand how our God and Scripture intersect with their daily lives, which, by the way, includes how our government is run. I feel I can do that without politicking. Some organizations have become too political, but I don’t think that is a new thing. The recent death of Jerry Falwell, who peaked politically more than 20 years ago, reminded us that this is not a new trend.

RIC OLSEN

I think everything has become too politicized. Right, left or center, it doesn’t matter. Any groups of people who find consensus are targets, and they will be hit from every angle possible. Corporate America has many modern-day cowboys who are able to cut from the herd the 5% to 10% of the people they know will be the most vulnerable. But their success is still based on the fact that a significant number of qualified voters will not vote. Those who don’t vote have nothing to complain about — religious or political. Voting is our ultimate political power — a sacred and personal responsibility. Have you ever wondered why we don’t make it easier to vote?

PASTOR JIM TURRELL

Religious leaders most certainly should relate their faith’s ethical teachings to the political issues of the day. But religious organizations should not endorse candidates or turn the church or temple into a lobbying group. It is encouraging to see that people do understand the difference and are willing to report infractions. Public awareness will serve as the best deterrent to improper politicking by some religious organizations.

At our Zen Center, we are enjoying a book study of “Mindful Politics: A Buddhist Guide to Making the World a Better Place.” This is an anthology of articles on a variety of topics such as peace, globalization, consumerism, racism and environmentalism. It explores the importance of a daily spiritual life, of the commitment to personal growth and the cultivation of compassion, nonviolence and mindfulness.

The concrete expression of Zen practice in daily activities and community affairs, whether local or global, is essential for a mature spiritual life.

We do not discuss political parties, candidates for office or specific legislation. I would consider it a serious abuse of my role as a Zen teacher to present my personal views and to create the misimpression that all those who practice Zen should hold them.

Religious organizations that violate the laws governing not-for-profit religious organizations have certainly become “too politicized.” But the social issues of our day are also spiritual issues, and churches and temples have ample opportunity within the IRS guidelines to offer congregants meaningful resources in making their decisions.

REV. DR. DEBORAH BARRETT