The foes of slavery could appeal to the standard that all are created equal in sight of our Lord. The civil rights movement had the same conviction on its side, that men and women bearing God's image should not be exploited and set aside and treated as insignificant. The same impulse over the years has reformed prisons and mental institutions, hospitals, hospices and homeless shelters. As in his case, that sometimes means defying the times, challenging old ways and old assumptions. This influence has made our nation more just and generous and decent, and our nation has need of that today.
Faith remains important to the compassion of our nation.
Millions of Americans serve their neighbor because they loved their god. Their lives are characterized by kindness and patience and service to others. They provide hope even when hope comes hard. In my second week of office, we set out to promote the work of community and faith-based charities. We want to encourage the inspired to help the helper.