The New Testament talks about this love in very specific and demanding terms. In the twenty-first century we need to relearn the importance of personal care for our neighbour for those whose families are facing difficulties or who have lived through personal misfortune. The government and the market economy are still vitally important in building a safe, prosperous country but todays challenges require more from each of us. Paying taxes and obeying the law are important public responsibilities but our duties do not end there. Religious people have as much right to a place in public life as any other citizen of our great country.
Religious people pay their taxes and vote just like everyone else.
In many ways the contribution of faith communities to national life is disproportionate to their size. A disproportionate number of volunteers and charities are religious. Religious schools appeal to parents who may rarely attend a place of worship. The stability of family life within faith communities and their respect for the sanctity of life benefits the whole of our country. I welcome the contribution made by members of minority faiths to national life.