14th June, 2007
GLYNIS QUINLAN

As campaigning hots up for the federal election due later this year, Christians are to be given the chance to hear direct from the leaders of Australia’s two major political parties.

ASKING THE HARD QUESTIONS: The ACL's event at the National Press Club will be a chance for Christian leaders to ask questions of the Prime Minister, John Howard, and Opposition Leader, Kevin Rudd. PICTURE: Christopher Bruno(www.sxc.hu). "(I)t is a unique opportunity for Christians to hear first-hand from the Prime Minister and the Opposition Leader about why they think they should be endorsed to lead our nation, and to hear their responses to questions from church leaders."

In an Australian first, the Prime Minister John Howard and the Opposition Leader Kevin Rudd have agreed to speak live to Christians across the nation on the evening of Thursday, 9th August.

Around 200 church, para-church and denominational leaders are expected to travel to Canberra for the event, hosted by the Australian Christian Lobby at the National Press Club, which will include an opportunity for them to ask questions of both Mr Howard and Mr Rudd, after their separate addresses.

Congregations meeting in participating churches throughout the nation will simultaneously view a web-cast of the addresses and question sessions in locations across Australia. This will also be a great opportunity to pray for the election, with time scheduled for prayer in the program.

ACL is expecting churches from many different denominations in cities and towns throughout all states and territories to watch the live web-cast.

The strength of the participation of churches in this event will play an important role in reaffirming the significance of the Christian constituency in the lead-up to the federal election.

It is a valuable chance to ensure that Christians maximise their influence on the political sphere and thereby help to shape the way our nation is governed.

Most importantly, though, it is a unique opportunity for Christians to hear first-hand from the Prime Minister and the Opposition Leader about why they think they should be endorsed to lead our nation, and to hear their responses to questions from church leaders.

There is a great need for Christians to have input into political processes and decisions if we are to influence the very fibre of Australia’s government and community.

It is important that we put pressure on all political parties to develop well-considered policy initiatives and a vision for Australia that engenders an increasingly moral and caring society.

It is one thing for Australians to acknowledge the nation’s Christian heritage, but too much of our modern day society and law-making is being shaped by an increasingly secular agenda. If Christians want to see Godly values shaping our future then it is vital that we all become informed and active in making this happen. The August event will be a key step in this process.

Please encourage your church or minister’s fraternal to get involved in the event. It is inter-denominational and offers a great chance for churches in particular areas to get together to participate. This will also assist churches who don’t have the technical capacity to take part in the web-cast.

Participating churches will need to register prior to the event through the ACL website at www.acl.org.au. While the registration process is being finalised, churches should email makeitcount2007@acl.org.au to notify ACL of their interest.

Details of participating churches in different locations will also be placed on the ACL website, along with other relevant information.

Together let’s ensure we make the Christian vote count!

‘Federal Election 2007 – Make it Count’ will be hosted by the Australian Christian Lobby (ACL) at the National Press Club in Canberra from 7pm - 9.30pm (EST).

Glynis Quinlan is the public relations manager for the Australian Christian Lobby.

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