The Saddleback Civil Forum

On Saturday August 16, 2008, I watched the Saddleback Civil Forum with Barack Obama and John McCain, hosted by Pastor Rick Warren of Saddleback Church.

As I listened to both men, I found both senators to be thoughtful and truly prepared. I also found both of them to have truly grown throughout the campaign. I got a sense as to why the country is split down the middle and the polls are as close as they are.

I found them to both believe in America and its promise. I also was amazed at how Pastor Warren was able to conduct the forum in such a manner. The questions posed to both senators were tough questions that struck the heart of the stark choices we face as a country.

In my view, Pastor Warren is a profound example of what is so right and beautiful about America. I have continued to wonder why civil discourse cannot be the order of the day. Pastor Warren proved that it can.

Pastor Warren began the first hour of the forum with Senator Obama. Unfortunately, I missed the first 10 minutes of the session where the pastor asked about the three wise men.

I did find Senator McCain's response interesting on both counts, but more on that later on. On the question of faith, there was no question that Obama embraced his faith with no reservations in any way, shape or form. He told the world that he understood his faith to insure that he acted justly and lovingly.

Pastor Warren asked when a fetus acquires human rights. Senator Obama told the world that he was pro-choice. His view was based on a fundamental belief that women who decide to have abortions do not come to such decisions lightly.