Not to act is to act.

Not to act is to act.

We write to you not as a Republican and a Democrat, which we are, but as men of faith who take seriously the teaching of Scripture – as do you. German Lutheran pastor and theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer famously said, “Not to speak is to speak. Not to act is to act.” In that spirit, we implore you, with an urgency that the situation demands, to boldly lend your voice to the public square on this defining issue – for such a time as this.

So concludes a recent letter authored by Congressman Frank Wolf of Virginia (Republican) and former Ambassador Tony P. Hall (Democrat), sent to many of the country’s most influential pastors. The two share the conviction that the voices of America’s church leaders must be heard as the nation continues to debate the meaning of marriage. While expressing appreciation for those who have already engaged, Hall and Wolf note that too many have chosen to remain silent.

In a famous examination of early American culture, Alexis de Tocqueville made note of the influential role of religion. He wrote, “Not until I went into the churches of America and heard her pulpits aflame with righteousness did I understand the greatness and genius of America. America is good. And if America ever ceases to be good, America will cease to be great.”

Do these words reflect the role of your church in your local community? If not, consider sharing a copy of Wolf and Hall’s letter with your pastor. Ask the leaders of your church whether they plan to leverage their influence for the good of the nation.

Feel free to copy and paste the full letter below and add your name to those of the Congressman and the Ambassador before sending to your church leadership. Pester your pastor (lovingly, of course). If they are willing to take the next step, point them to the Manhattan Declaration. In the coming weeks, we will unveil a number of resources for action at the local and national level.

Another opportunity to let your voice be heard for the cause of religious liberty is this week’s Stand Up for Religious Freedom event. The website has all the information you need to participate in one of the 150 rallies taking place around the country on Friday, June 8.

Finally, the best from the blogs and latest news:

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