Faith

They say religion and politics shouldn't, or don't mix; but, in the week where many have had the chance to vote in local elections, I'd like to suggest they should not only mix, but, they should be intertwined.

Indeed, looking through the current climate of sleaze which seems to surround some of the key figures in our 3 main parties nationally perhaps it would be a good idea if the two did become better bed-fellows?

Don't get me wrong, I understand that we are all sinners; I am familiar with the concept of trying to remove the speck before examining the plank; but, I can't conceal my disappointment at the depths to which some have descended in recent days.

Nor am I so blinkered that I have missed some of the similarly bad behaviour at a high level in the Christian church, despite the denomination. Or even, among the so-called faithful who have given other religions a bad name.

As people of faith aren't we supposed to have some principles? Surely, the perfect spring-board to bring about social change, which, I understand to be one of the main reasons for people to go into politics - is to make a difference.

As people of faith don't we have certain responsibilities - something to do with making the world a better place - isn't that an aim of those who seek election at whatever level?

As people of faith - shouldn't we involve ourselves in the life of where we live - I don't mean in an extremist way which only leads to ridicule but in a way which tempers the decisions which are made in our name; particularly when it comes to things like religious hatred?

Where I live - we won't get the chance to vote in local elections until next year - and, who knows when we'll be asked as a country to consider who we want in power - but, can I suggest, when it happens we use the vote which was won for us?

Meanwhile, why not begin to take an interest in what's going on around you in the name of the electorate - go on - play a part in the democracy; and see what a difference you can make.