What Role Should Religious Leaders Play in World Politics?
During Pope Benedict XVI's recent trip to America, his journeys
spread beyond the world of religious events. He met with President Bush, the
United Nations General Assembly, and other high-ranking leaders. During these
meetings, he discussed topics from religious freedom to poverty to peace
processes that should be enacted around the world
During his visit to the
United States, Pope Francis delivered a speech before a joint meeting of
Congress. The Pope’s message, “Remember the Golden Rule. Do unto others what
you would have them do to you.” The Pope addressed immigration, protecting
human life and climate change- all issues that Congress is divided about. He
supported the position of Democrats on some issues and the position of
Republicans on others. According to the First Amendment, there should be a
separation of church and state, and the government cannot promote a particular
religion. However I do not think the Pope’s statements about controversial
topics are promoting religion in Congress, but religious leaders should be
careful about stepping too far into the political side. I do not think the
Pope’s opinion should the influence U.S. policy in any way, all the controversy
is on What role do/should religious leaders play in influencing politics?
On a side note i love what he said about immigration and i strongly support it. As far as politics mixing with religion, i believe its okay to a certain extent because a lot of people base their political beliefs on their religious beliefs. -Lia K6
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