Religion and Politics

Its that time again - provincial elections. On October 10th we'll head off to the poles to elect another provincial government and answer the question on representative representation in provincial politics. I'm always a little weary about making any comments during elections, after all there are those who believe that church and politics don't mix. On the contrary I think that religion...church...faith have a lot to say about politics and the way we vote. Now before people get too worried I'm not going to tell you who to vote for. I'm not going to espouse any one party over another. What I am going to do is encourage you to let you faith and understanding of the gospel of Jesus our Christ inform the vote you will make on the 10th. When you enter that polling booth ponder who the gospel of love is calling you to elect. Ask yourself who will represent those on the fringes of society the best? Who will assure that our health care system is enhanced so that everyone is assured equal access to health care? Ask yourself who will make responsible decision about public education so that it does not become a second rate alternative to private eduction, but becomes the primary choice of Canadians for their children? Who will enable equal access to post-secondary education without the burdensome reality of student loans? Who will help develop our cities and rural communities? Who will further develop the economy and bring good jobs with a fair wage to Ontarians? Who will help provide enough affordable housing for those who need it?
These are guiding gospel questions that don't seek the benefit of the few, but rather seek to balance the needs of many with a sense of social justice so that the least are cared for before the affluent. On October 10th VOTE. Do not let your voice go unheard. Be informed. Pray. Discern. And let your faith lead you.