Washington D.C., Aug 12, 2009 / 04:13 am
Responding to some Americans’ displays of vocal opposition to health care legislation, a coalition of religious leaders has launched a national campaign for health care reform, characterizing the matter as a “fundamental religious issue.” However, the Catholic Medical Association severely criticizes the proposal.
The coalition supporting the proposed reform, “40 Days for Health Reform,” includes a television commercial and has planned a conference call with President Barack Obama on August 19. Proposing to hold dozens of prayer vigils, rallies and meetings with politicians from August 11 to September 18, the coalition also requests that clergy preach on health care reform during the last weekend of August.
Its backers include Christian, Jewish and Muslim leaders. The coalition was organized by Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good, Sojourners, Faith in Public Life, Faithful America, and the PICO National Network.
Coalition members say they see too many people in their pews who struggle with being uninsured or underinsured due to job losses, pre-existing conditions and other factors beyond their control.