Local Religious Leaders React To Pastor's Presidential Forum

 Faith and religion continues to play an important role in the presidential campaign.
With the nation deeply divided by ideology, more and more people are looking to the candidates and their spirituality for answers to the tough questions.
Last night's presidential forum with Pastor Rick Warren marked the first time both candidates appeared on stage together since they became the presumptive nominees for their parties.
It was a moment that put faith at the forefront of the campaign.
Many religious leaders in the tennessee valley believe it's a moment that was long overdue.
     WDEF News 12's Webb Wright has the local perspective as we cover Campaign 2008.
     It may be a landmark moment in the 2008 presidental race, as candidates Barak Obama and John McCain sat down with pastor Rick Warren in a moment that put faith at the forefront of the campaign.
In the Tennessee Valley, religious leaders believe it's a moment that's long overdue.
First Baptist Church of Cleveland co-pastor Jim Gibson said "Faith has always been a part of the United States from the very beginning. The Judeo-Chirstian ethic was at the roots of our country. I'm thrilled that there is such an emphasis on faith now."
     Ronnie Russell, Financial Chairman of the Primitive Baptist Convention added "I think it's good that they are embracing the church more, this country needs hope and needs healing and i think the church has the answers."
     Both candidates seemd to strike a chord admissions of personal shortcomings. Russell added, "I think when we are really able to express what our flaws and our failures could be to me beings a healing process not only externally but internally."
Gibson agrees. "No one of us is perfect. Everyone of us is a sinner and by the grace of God, we have a relationship through him through his son Jesus Christ and that is a foundational part of any person who should be leading our country."
     Primitive Bapstist Convention President Ernest Ferrrell cautions that religion and faith can be dangerous when misused in the political arena.
"I think that christianity does play a very important role in our socail and political lives but at the same time we cant afford to let it be taken out of context."
     For most, faith will play a huge part in the minds of voter for one simple reason, expressed by Reverend Russell.
"I don't believe a person can lead this country unless they are willing to be led by something higher than themselves."
     Webb Wright WDEF News  12.
     Last night's presidential forum marked the first time both candidates appeared on stage together since they became the presumptive nominees for their parties.