BIRMINGHAM - 29 April 2008 - 220 words
Black Country: parishioners urged to 'think before you vote'
Church leaders of different denominations
in the Black Country, part of the Archdiocese of Birmingham, are
encouraging their parishioners to turn out and vote in the Local
Council elections to be held this Thursday 1 May, writes Peter
Jennings.
Votes are being requested to think carefully about a list of seven
questions issued by the Black Country Churches Engaged (BCCE),
the ecumenical body that represents the various Christian denominations
in the area.
Mgr Patrick McKinney, Chair of (BCCE), and Dean of Dudley Deanery,
stressed: "As local Church leaders we sincerely hope that
people throughout the Black Country will recognise their responsibility
as citizens and make an informed choice before they place their
cross on the ballot paper.
Mgr McKinney added: "Our questions are based on Christian
values. We encourage people to consider the views of the various
candidates on important issues such as the value they place on
human life and also on members of the local community."
The Anglican Bishop of Wolverhampton, the Rt Rev Clive Gregory,
said: "We are asking people to consider whether the policies
of the various candidates feed on fear or whether they promote
the rich diversity of cultures living within the community. Do
the policies serve to promote good race relations, respecting
the culture, language and faith of all?"
Chair of the Wolverhampton & Shrewsbury District of the Methodist
Church, the Rev John Howard, said: "These elections give
people the opportunity to express their views as to the best way
forward locally and elect local politicians who bring the community
together."
For further information see website: Black Country Churches Engaged:
www.bcce.org.uk
© Independent Catholic News 2008
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