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Making the Cross countDear Friends,While some of us may be suffering from EFS (Election Fatigue Syndrome), as Christians we have a duty under God to be involved in the world and that includes politics. Why? Because, in the signs of Jesus’ Incarnation and Crucifixion, God has wholly committed himself to the world. In short, God made his Cross count. So we need to get involved, by asking the right questions and most of all by voting. It is not my job or that of any other priest to tell people which party to vote for. But I do believe that Christians have a responsibility to question politicians and their policies and vote, not purely our of self motives, but informed by the special insights of our faith; Kingdom priorities which take the care of creation and the dignity and worth of all men and women seriously. So, here are some questions to our politicians, simply for starters: • how are you going to enable the economy to thrive and at the same time, protect and provide for the most vulnerable in our society? • How will you ensure adequate policing that at the same time respects the rights, freedoms and dignity of the individual? • how will your policies best support children and family life and, at the same time, support those who struggle in living alone? • how will your government address the plight of the poor in other parts of the world, and help those fleeing war and danger? • how will your policies promote social stability and cohesion, and community life? • how will you address the shortage of affordable housing? • how will you care for the environment? Let us be committed to each other and creation, even as God is committed, but making our cross count. With my love and prayers, Fr Kevin. |