Close Bush spiritual advisor launches pro-Obama site

This is a significant because Caldwell has had a close relationship with Bush for the last 12 years. In addition to officiating at the Bush wedding this year, by Bush’s request, Caldwell introduced then GOP Presidential nominee George W. Bush at the 2000 Republican National Convention. He offered the official benediction at Bush’s inauguration in 2001 which ended with the controversial words, “the name that’s above all other names, Jesus the Christ. Let all who agree say Amen.” Delivering the inauguration benediction again in 2005, Caldwell closed with the more sensitive, “respective of all faiths, I submit this prayer in the Name of Jesus.” Caldwell’s work in his own church was the inspiration for Bush’s Faith-Based Initiatives.

Caldwell illustrates the growing political realignment of Evangelicals in America, especially among the younger generation. Dobson represents the worst of Christians in America. He promotes intolerance, hatred and divisiveness in the manner of the Pharisee condemned by Jesus in the Bible. Younger Evangelicals are taking a more holistic approach to the teachings of Jesus. An approach that is compassionate and loving, virtues at the heart of the message of Jesus.

In order for our pluralistic society to work and for us to live in peace we cannot continue along the trajectory advocated by Dobson, Robertson, etc. We must embrace toleration, compassion and respect for the diversity of faith and values in America. There is no turning back to some imagined homogeneous Christian society. I am optimistic that a new generation of Evangelicals will leave the rhetoric of Dobson in the dust bin. Go to Caldwell’s site, especially if you are a person of faith, and sign the petition if you agree that Dobson does not speak for you.