Sunday’s Viewpoint page presented a contrast in how support or opposition to Gov. Nathan Deal’s recent veto of the religious liberty bill is expressed by local religious leaders.

One viewpoint assumed that the governor’s actions were motivated by greed and/or an abdication of previously expressed Christian or conservative beliefs. That viewpoint completely disregarded the possibility his action was motivated by a belief, held by many in the legal community, that he bill did not add any protections to Christians which are afforded by current law.

The other viewpoint did not demonize supports of the bill and did not cast aspersions at the ministers who supported the bill.

A third viewpoint was publicly expressed in another forum by the pastor of the county’s largest congregation who recently publicized a letter he wrote to Gov. Deal. The letter firmly voiced his opposition of the veto, but did not assume the governor betrayed his conscience and was extremely respectful.

Recent public opinion surveys show that millennials are increasingly turned away from the church. Perhaps they are sick and tired of religious leaders who demonize those who disagree with them and label other local religious leaders purveyors of “false theology and pseudo intellect.” I know I am.

Hammond Law
Gainesville