Religious Freedom Is Not A Political Tool Or Tactic, But A Natural Expression Of Our Membership In The Human Family And A Net Positive In Closing All Gaps The Government Cannot Fill. Canceling Those Religious Beliefs Is Not Just Un-American, It’s Unconsti

I came across an article titled “Religious freedom is needed for a ‘culture of encounter’” which makes me think that the lockdown enforced by authorities as a result of the pandemic is being politicized. To me personally, the rules and regulations certainly are the most important, yet we should all understand that people can exercise their intelligence. What concerns me more is that governmental officials, whether at federal or state levels, who make directives cannot be considered as law abiding individuals. The Governor of California is one such “good” example.
 
I want to make an important point that religion is the tool which disciplines our spiritual life to conquer all tribulations and more so the pandemic. I hope that the move is not against religion, which can fundamentally shatter the foundations of our society. Our faith ultimately gives us the divine wisdom and strength to overcome the hurdles of life.
 
Archbishop Hovnan Derderian
Primate
 
November 25, 2020