German pastor and theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote that “Silence in the face of evil is itself evil. Not to speak is to speak.” Those are challenging words, especially in this strident election cycle. But how do we stay true to our conscience and speak without being drawn into partisanship? I’m not sure. However, when religion is politicized, the process becomes so toxic that Bonhoeffer’s words can not be ignored.  

The letter-to-the-editor declaring that “He [Trump] will also protect our Christian values...” blurs the nonviolent and communal teachings of Jesus with a chilling, nationalistic ideology. (“Mr. Brown, we worked to get you elected...” Daily Inter Lake, Sept. 18.)

Christianity’s DNA is intrinsically bound to kindness and concern for others. Is it therefore rational to believe that a candidate who mocks the disabled, promises to engage in torture, offers blanket condemnation of Islam as a religion, makes degrading comments about women, and encourages violence, has any interest in protecting values rooted in all-inclusive Love? —Bob Muth Sr., Kalispell