This is from Ruth Autrey Gwynther. Her point of view on several controversial issues is absolutely in line with the United Methodist Social Principals and, in my opinion, with a Jesus-shaped view of public policy. Ruth is an active layperson at Auburn First United Methodist Church
Matthew 25 in Alabama
For I was hungry, and you charged me tax on all the food that I bought.
(Alabama is one of only a few states that fully tax groceries, a tax that hits the poor the hardest.)
You also said that food stamps make me dependent.
(All but one of Alabama's Congressional delegates voted to cut funding for food stamps.)
I was thirsty, but you didn't approve of burdening business by regulating what they dumped into my water supply.
(e.g. Public Service Commission members tout eliminating EPA regulations, especially on coal.)
I was a stranger, but you didn't want immigrants in your state.
(HR 56.)
I was in prison, but you ignored me, even when I was being abused.
(The Tutwiler scandal is just the most obvious. Check with the Equal Justice Initiative.)
I was sick, but you refused to expand Medicaid so that I could get medical care.
(Alabama leaders did not want to go with any plan supported by the man in the White House.)
What does the Church have to say?
