THE PASTOR POLITICIAN

I am asked often how I balance being a pastor of a church and an active politician. To many there is an automatic conflict between being a representative for the church, and an activist in the political arena.Personally, I have never had a difficulty separating my role as Clergy and my interest in the world of elected office. In the 1990’s when I ran for School Board the label was placed on me as the “Minister” running for office. I quickly corrected this with the statement that “I am the citizen running for office that just happens to be a Minister by vocation.” I was cross-endorsed by both Democrats and Republicans back then, something that does not often happen. I won that race and served at Vice-Chairman.So how do I keep one away from the other? What are my principles for balancing the two roles in my life? Well, here are some steadfast rules that I have never compromised in being the “Pastor Politician.”

First, I never bring politics into the church! As Pastor of the Cornerstone Church (www.cornerstonechurch-ct.org) you will not find me preaching politics, endorsing candidates, promoting my own election, or encouraging a Party preference. When I ran four years ago for State Representative members of my church found out about my candidacy like everyone else, through the newspapers. I refused to use my church members to fill my campaign war chest, and never asked them to assist my working campaign.At Cornerstone we welcome all candidates to drop in to our service, whether Republican or Democrat, and all are treated with the utmost respect for their willingness to serve in their community.

Second, I do not use my political involvement as a means to convert people to my religious beliefs. When I have ran for office I have understood that if elected my duty is to represent the people, all the people what ever their religious beliefs.When I have been elected I have realized that I must honor the Constitution and the laws of our land and the Charter of our town. Now, this does not mean that my principles are left at the church doors; it simply means that I must think of the people I represent over my own ideology at times.

Third, and this may make me a terrible politician; I refuse to show disrespect to elected officials that are on the opposing team. Yes, this is where the conflict for some comes into play. Whether, Democrat or Republican we are all Gods creatures. God is not the God to a particular political party.So, how do I balance both Pastor and Politics? Simple, I stand for what I believe without standing on someone else.There are also many misconceptions about Ministers that make people think they have no place in politics.

Here is one just to give an example.I was approached one time by a person who thought that being a Minister meant that I did not pay taxes, thinking that clergy members are exempt. Although, churches are tax exempt, we in the ministry pay the same property taxes, income taxes and social security…..and every other tax you can think of.I have come to the belief that since me and my wife are just like every other citizen we have the right and even the responsibility to get involved in the political process. Now, there is no way to totally separate my Christian belief from my public policy. I believe that my faith makes me even a better choice for office since it has given me a true concern for the welfare for others. However, at Cornerstone Church…I am simply the Pastor and I like it that way.

If you would like to host a "Meet the Candidates" at your home to meet your friends and neighbors email me at GTStokessr@aol.com All the Republican Candidates would love to come by and answer questions and share our ideas for Enfield
Greg Stokes