As I reflect on Barack Obama’s “race” speech, delivered on March 18, 2008, I wonder what my dad would say about airing such matters across the broad spectrum of media outlets that covered this speech.  Would he condone the method, the content, and/or tone of such spoken words from a gentleman who aspires to be the Nation’s first African-American President?  It is safe to say that I am 25 years too late in asking this question of my dad (he passed in 1983); thus, I will do my best to provide personal insight on this matter.

While campaigning for my U.S. Congressional Race in Florida’s 23^rd District, I openly embrace the multitude of African-American churches in my district that supply a great many people with a great many services.  I readily acknowledge (and appreciate) the outreach and brotherhood that my district’s churches extend to people of all races, creeds, colors, and religions.  With pride, I reflect upon the pro-humanity positive message that my Pastor, Dr. Lenard Johnson of Greater Mount Olive Baptist Church (http://greatermountolivembc.org/) in Delray Beach, Florida delivers with each and every sermon.  When recently asked to compare Pastor Johnson’s sermons to those of Rev. Jeremiah Wright, my off-the-cuff remarks deserve repeating:  “There is no comparison.  Pastor Lenard Johnson is too smooth and too shrewd to resort to anything less than his usual uplifting messages.  When my Pastor gets finished preaching to you, all is good with the world.”

Church, in my mind’s eye, is a place for healing, a place for hope, and a place for connection with the Divine Being.  Are there occasions when Pastors are called to “light a fire” within the hearts and souls of their respective parishioners?  Most certainly, there are such times; however, casting negativity and shame on one group of people in order to motivate another group does not set well with me. 

With the understanding that I am discussing both Politics and Religion in open circles (my apologies to dad), I cannot stomach the possibility that all Black Churches and Black Pastors will be cast in the mold set forth by Obama’s Pastor.  To the broader society, hear me clearly on this matter:  The Black Church remains the cornerstone of the community because of its untiring commitment to serve as a beacon and unifying force amongst all people.  Categorically, I disavow the preaching of incendiary remarks in an age and era when we must learn to come together as Americans. 

Sincerely,

Dr. Marion D. Thorpe, Jr.
U.S. Congressional Candidate
District 23 - Florida