Engaging the Issues

I just read “Vital Signs,” by Diana Butler Bass (December 2005). It is interesting, and I know two of the three churches featured. What bothers this 76-year-old retired farmer and pastor is that not one of the great issues that face us daily is mentioned: war, economic disparity, and an assault on our basic freedoms. I can take no denomination, theology, or local church seriously that is not defining these, insisting on talking about them up front, and seeking to meaningfully engage them.

The church generally wants to do charity when we are called to deal also with what causes people to need charity.

Robert D. Williams
Clarinda, Iowa