"They do not have powerful lobbies, but they have the most compelling claim on our consciences and common resources." This statement from the Circle of Protection summarizes what’s at stake for the hungry and poor as the United States government begins to make cuts in order to reduce the country’s deficit. At least two Disciples, General Minister and President Sharon E. Watkins and Dick Hamm, Executive Director of Christian Churches Together in the USA, have added their names to the growing list of religious leaders calling for a Circle of Protection around funding for programs that meet the essential needs of the most vulnerable.
Among the eight key points in the Circle of Protection statement are: funding focused on fighting poverty at home and abroad should be spared the budget ax; national leaders must consider tax revenues, military spending and entitlements in ways to share sacrifice and cut deficits; decent jobs at decent wages are the best path out of poverty, and restoring growth is a powerful way to reduce deficits; and Christians are asking how we protect "the least of these," and "What would Jesus cut?" To learn more, visit: www.circleofprotection.us
Offering received Sept. 26 & Oct. 3