Reply #13: I wrote the Oprah show last night asking them to do this

[Oilwellian]

I think it would be a wonderful way to show mainstream America what an asset this church is to the community and America as a whole. One thing that jumped out at me when I studied the church more closely...they provide a fabulous array of community services that reach out to everyone.

When I worked with Head Start parents several years ago, one of the main issues contributing to their lives in poverty was a lack of a support system. They came from very dysfunctional families and were therefore isolated and on their own so to speak. Churches like UCC would have been a godsend for the work we did...one of our main goals was to get these young mothers involved in a support system that boosted their confidence and guided them in directions that would help them become independent of government support.

I'm sure when Obama was a community organizer he recognized the same need among families who lived in poverty. What better way to address their issues than to get local churches involved? I'm sure that's how Obama met Pastor Wright in the first place and the work they've done together is stunning. I could only dream of having such a vast resource to refer our parents to.

I can't help but wonder if exposing this church isn't part of the overall plan. ;) It would certainly be an eye-opener to most Americans to see a church so supportive of their community and helping those families living in poverty become independent self-sufficient, and living richer, more fulfilling lives. Isn't that what we want as a society?

I suspect we'll be hearing more from this church in the coming days. I know if I was a member I'd certainly be chomping at the bit to tell everyone how my life and the lives of my children have become more enriched because of the ministry services.