Many, however, are resolute in not entering any government deal that requires a compromise of their religious belief system. There's the rub.
Cautious optimism is very accurate.
I'll never compromise my ideology for money, but if this administration is going to reach out to people, they're going to have to be open to creative ways. Bishop Dantley returned last week from Washington, D.C., where he met with a national coalition of pastors and scholars to discuss concerns of African-Americans. The Bush initiative was discussed. Critics say the move erodes the wall between government and religious advocacy, which would be unconstitutional. Supporters say funding faith-based groups taps into a wide network of agencies at a time when demand is exceeding supply.