Hours after the Senate leadership released its health care reform bill last Thursday, over 25 religious leaders from across North Dakota spoke directly with Senator Kent Conrad about the moral urgency of passing health care reform that makes quality health care affordable for all North Dakota families.

The conversation, which was held via conference call, included clergy and faith leaders from numerous denominations, including Lutheran, Catholic, Methodist and Congregational churches.

“People of faith have a unique role to play in this debate,” said Fr. Patrick A. Schumacher, pastor of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church. “Almost all religious denominations recognize that health care is a human right and is essential in promoting the full development of human potential.”

“As religious leaders, we are committed to civil and respectful debate. That’s why this conversation with Senator Conrad was so important,” said Rev. Dr. Wade Schemmel, Northern Plains Conference Minister for the United Church of Christ. “Amidst all the negative campaign ads and distortions of the truth, we wanted to make sure that Senator Conrad knew that the faith community will be standing with him when he votes for affordable health care for North Dakota families.”

Faith leaders across North Dakota have taken a variety of actions in recent months to ensure that Congress passes health reform legislation, including lobby visits, sermons and speaking out in the media.