I run a Texas faith-based organization. Mercy Culture Church needs more than just God | Opinion
Not just faith
As the CEO of a faith-based social-service organization, I have a particular interest in the intersection of faith practices and the treatment for victims of sex trafficking, substance-abuse issues or mental health concerns. Healing for trauma and recovery require interventions based on proven techniques that include counseling, cognitive restructuring and other professionally provided support.
In reading recent coverage about Mercy Culture Church, I had concerns that the Christian faith is being used to avoid the use of best practices and accountability. (Jan. 5, 4C, “Mayor, City Council gave church a bullying blueprint”) At Volunteers of America, we honor faith-based practices as an important component of recovery. But faith alone will not address the complexity of problems that occur after years of trauma.
I hope these new services rely not only on God, but also on proven interventions that allow people to succeed long-term as healthy members of our community.
- Angela King, CEO, Volunteers of America-Texas, Arlington
The billionaires
Is the purpose of our federal government to make money? Or is it a service organization to provide for the American people? Arrogant billionaires advocating cuts in Social Security, Medicare, veterans’ benefits and other long-standing programs are either ignorant or seeking revenge toward working people.
Some politicians want to invest more in our citizens, creating a society where all Americans are assured of some basic services. Other politicians want to invest less and run government as a business.
The billionaires seizing power in our federal government seem to think the purpose of government is to make them richer while working-class people are stripped of the security they have earned.
- Loveta Eastes, Fort Worth
Hating the left
Our government was recently again in crisis because Congress was unable to pass a funding bill. This Republican-led House has been one of the least productive in history. And this is what Americans have to look forward to for at least another two years.
Republicans don’t govern. They don’t bring solutions for the American people. They just hate the left and want to holler that it’s “socialism” anytime a tax dollar is spent on a needy child or any other program that uplifts our citizens.
It’s our Democratic lawmakers who address our failings — and there are many. How about the environment, maternal health, child poverty, the living conditions and health of indigenous peoples, and the support and protection of our allies?
- Bettye Parker, Trophy Club
Bad moral path
The moral path of the modern Democratic Party is troubling. Without a change, it imperils the direction of our society. President Joe Biden’s recent commutations of death sentences for those who committed even the most heinous crimes based on moral values signals the party’s loss of basic human values. (Dec. 13, 2A, “Biden commutes sentences of 1,500 Americans, a record”) This same party condones the slaughter of the innocent unborn. Someone please explain the dichotomy.
This, combined with condoning lawless activities by failing to enforce our laws, does not bode well for a civilized society. As a former Democrat and now Republican, I ask: What happened?
- Ken Sapp, Granbury
Granger helped
Rep. Kay Granger’s office helped me obtain disability benefits, while she might have been having health issues herself. The infrastructure she implemented saved my life — my life. Anyone who disrespects her service to our community should be ashamed.
We must respect those who serve our communities. They do not have to, but they do it to make a difference.
- Dana Hoyle, Haltom City