I am Catholic and have never attended a black church and therefore have no direct knowledge of Trinity. At the churches I have attended, although there is a pastor, there are multiple priests, occasional visitors, and even deacons. Although I attend church every week, I may only hear the pastor once a month or less. Perhaps at Trinity, Reverand Wright did the majority of services. Many people would be hard pressed to recall the content of many homilies. Again, I believe that the sermons are more central and more “theatrical” in black churches. Senator Obama undoubtedly travels a lot, especially since joining the Senate. I find it hard to believe that anyone should be held to the words spoken by their pastor. As Senator Obama said, he, and I believe most people go to church to reinforce their faith, their connection to God, and their connection to family and community. There doesn’t seem to be much disagreement that overall Trinity is a great congregation that has done tremendous good in its community. Let’s put this behind us!
If the press really believes that a candidate’s pastor is a defining reflection of the candidates’s character, why haven’t we hear about Clinton’s pastor or McCain’s. From Hillary’s response to a question about how often she attends church, deferring the question and then saying she went on Easter, it appears that she rarely goes to church. Should we be branding her as anti-religion? Come on. Move on!
