I hope you are still keeping an eye on this week's question at On Faith.  As a commentor on yesterday's Reading List pointed out, the comments on Otterson's entry are a bit disappointing, both in number and content.  As a creedal Christian, I have to say the thing I find most shameful is the willingness of some of the brethren to pass on and act upon ignorance.  Mohler's entry prevaricates a bit:

In my view, candidates should be as forthright and direct about their personal religious views as about any other question. Those who make too much of these beliefs risk appearing as a candidate for national preacher. Those who make too little of their beliefs risk appearing insincere and evasive. Those who seek to exploit their beliefs will do themselves harm political harm.

Where is the line Dr. Mohler?  Or does it depend on what particular faith they belong to?

Lowell:  It is disappointing that some commenters to Otterson's post assumed he was promoting Romney's candidacy.  The conspiratorial view that Richard Bushman describes does indeed survive, it seems.

A student at Pepperdine gets it just right.

McCain is apparently worried about Romney.  He ought to be if he has joined those that would dishearten our troops.  Hmmm . . . McCain, Episcopalian, defeatist — Romney, Mormon, for victory.  Seems to me a Mormon whose religion matters to him gets it right, while a creedal that holds his faith at arm's length is off the mark a bit.

Women, OK — Black, OK — Mormon, Whoa….  Come now, isn't that a bit inconsistent?

Blogger Dan Riehl considers Romney:

As to his being a Mormon, I couldn't care less. And anyone who does should read the Constitution - twice, if required. My concern is can he reach sound judgments and lead?

It was a Bob Novak piece that started this blog.  Now, he appears to be changing his tune a bit.  Ahhh, political gossip mongering.

Playing the religion card in reverse.  If they oppose Romney on political grounds, why is it necessary to identify their faith?  And if on religious grounds, I wonder if they realize the effort will only help as hesitant creedals would take some satisfaction in Romney's not being a "total sell-out?"  Sounds like they are not being effective with the message either way.

A friend sent me the link to this wonderful music video yesterday.  Correct me if I am wrong Lowell, but I think every Mormon would sing it as loudly as the rest of us.  I wonder if we all realize that if we withold our vote for each other on religious grounds, we void its meaning for both of us?

Lowell:  Loudly, with gusto, and in four-part harmony, John.

Update:  This one's from the irony department.  Reader Mike Stevens tells us that one member of the band featured in the music video, Diamond Rio, is a faithful Mormon who may even have written the song.

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