A group of Presbyterian clergy have prepared and circulated A Pastoral Letter to their colleagues. It is a fine statement, noting that “[a]n enduring principle of our discipleship is the call to sacrifice for the sake of others, after the manner of Christ, and a commitment to the common good beyond our own personal interest.” It goes on to cite principles of their tradition; “concern for the common good has focused on providing quality public education, ensuring affordable health care, and promoting the general welfare of the people – with particular attention to those whom Jesus called ‘the least of these’.” Noting their concern regarding “recent legislative actions,” they call on fellow Presbyterians to pray “for the poor, the overlooked, and the marginalized in our state”; to join in Lenten study on these matters; and to “renew our calling as advocates for the greater public good.”
You can read the full statement here. Some 150 Presbyterian clergy and other religious leaders have signed on, many of them people active with the NC Council of Churches.
