IN THEORY:

Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama recently touched a nerve when he said that many blue-collar, small-town Americans were “bitter” about the country’s eroding industrial jobs base and consequently “cling” to guns and religion. Democratic challenger Hillary Clinton and GOP candidate John McCain were quick to criticize Obama as “elitist.” Were you offended by the remarks, or do you think some voters turn to religion when they feel their political leaders fail?

To borrow a quote from former Texas Gov. Ann Richards about George Bush, “Poor Barack — he can’t help it.” He simply doesn’t get it. Faith isn’t a weekend-only affair; it is a lifestyle. In his view, faith is merely a crutch we cling to when we are in trouble. Maybe that explains why he is so disconnected (or claims he is) from his own pastor.

My faith makes great days beautiful and terrible days hopeful. It is not something I carry around like a gun or an emergency kit “just in case.” Rather, it is like the subtle breeze lifting the pinions of a bird, giving its flight majesty and possibility, but without it the bird becomes another landlubber.

I don’t take offense to Barack’s misunderstanding of faith and its role in culture and the lives of everyday Americans. However, I do take offense to his attacking people’s faith and beliefs just because they don’t agree with his political opinions. It seems that although he says he’s for changing politics-as-usual, he applies that only when it is convenient, which is usual for a politician. I had much higher hopes from him.

Ric Olsen

Lead pastor, The Beacon

I have been religiously watching the HBO series on John Adams. What a remarkable work giving insight into the amazing dedication displayed by our founding citizens. They were a brave group made up of all types.

But the overwhelming truth that stands up is that they relied upon God, not religion. Their faith in a Divine power guided their decisions and directed their intent, allowing them to look past their differences and work together to write our Constitution and Declaration of Independence.

I was inspired by Obama’s answer to the criticism brought on by comments from his pastor. His reference to our founding fathers and their struggles was inspirational and effective. I would love it if our candidates would tell more stories about our founding citizens. Quote them and comment upon their discoveries and revelations. Perhaps even compare their strengths to those brave and dedicated small-town, blue-collar workers who use their freedoms to face their fears and still fashion a life from their dreams and deepest desires. I think if Obama had done that, he would have won the hearts of middle America.

Pastor Jim Turrell

Center for Spiritual Discovery, Costa Mesa

Regardless of the color of our collar or size of our town, fearing dangers over which we have no control characterizes our human condition. There is no shortage of things to be anxious about: Where will the next “Ground Zero” be? Will we be able to heat our homes or drive our cars? Are our jobs and pensions at risk? Will we be alive at this time next year?

When anxious do we turn to Washington, Sacramento or City Hall? Or, do we look to that which we hold to be sacred and seek beliefs, values, symbols and practices focused on questions of ultimate meaning?

Howard Beale, Paddy Chayefsky’s character in the 1976 movie “Network,” put much of our bitterness into words: “I’m mad as hell, and I’m not going to take this anymore!” When “mad as hell,” do we expect Obama, Clinton or McCain or President Bush to be our Savior? When “out of control,” it is natural and necessary to turn to The One Who is in control.

(The Very Rev’d Canon) Peter D. Haynes

Saint Michael & All Angels Episcopal Church