Day’s other alliance
MONTREAL, PQ–When Stockwell Day arrived at a hotel in downtown Montreal to announce his bid for the Canadian Alliance leadership, an enthusiastic crowd of friends and supporters was waiting for him.
In an atmosphere resembling a cross between a pep rally and a revival meeting on January 7, more than 300 people cheered, applauded and chanted for their hero.
As Day outlined his personal values and his vision for Canada, he made it clear that he stood for fiscal justice, economic quality of life, victims' rights and well-equipped Armed Forces.
The majority of francophones in the room welcomed his desire for decentralization of power and stronger provincial roles.
The strongest reaction, however, was in response to Day's comments about family: The need for security for our children, the importance of family values and the role of family as the heart of society. To this the crowd gave a standing ovation.
Eric Lanthier, president of Day's Quebec campaign, explains the crowd's enthusiasm. "Day shares our values, and he is not afraid to stand up for what he believes."
Lanthier, associate pastor at Montreal's La Bible Parle church, elaborates. "Day is a Christian and he has never been ashamed of it. He consistently reaffirms his faith despite attacks."
Day was present at Lanthier's church the day before announcing his intention to run in the upcoming leadership race. He shared his conviction that public policy can be changed in the House of Commons, but only prayer can change people's hearts.
Day's involvement with La Bible Parle, a rapidly growing group of nine churches in Quebec, dates back to his election 18 months ago. Jeff Laurin, senior pastor of the mother church in Montreal and host of a daily radio program, is an avid Day supporter.
"We believe in the separation of power between church and state," says Lanthier. "But we also believe Christians need to influence society, and we think we can do that by supporting a man who wants to maintain a high profile for religion in public life."
But Glenn Smith, director of Christian Direction in Montreal, sees a danger in that approach. "I don't have a problem with Christians being involved in politics," says Smith. "But I have grave reservations about mobilizing churches to support one political party or candidate. The church then loses her role of critiquing political policy."
Lanthier affirms that church members are free to choose their political affiliation. "We just believe that we can guide them in their choice."
Dear Readers:
ChristianWeek relies on your generous support. please take a minute and donate to help give voice to stories that inform, encourage and inspire.
Donations of $20 or more will receive a charitable receipt.Thank you, from Christianweek.
