CNN

We all should be on our knees and praying to the God of this nation! Keep your eyes toward heaven, becuse His return is very soon,and it will not be in the form of Obama or any Rev. Wright. He will be the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. I belive He was crusified as the King Of The Jews? Jesus will have the last say in this matter,and when His time has come we shall see Him.

Obama is meeting with the Religious leaders to see what the needs of the people are. And who better to inform him on the needs and wants of the people of the United States then the head of the churches. The leaders see our pains every week no matter what religious group you belong to. He has said from the beginning that he was going to listen to the people and not the special interest groups and so far my fellow Americans he has done that within the short time he has been the Presumptive Democratic nominee.

If Senator Obama wants to make an impression on the moral conservatives he will change his stance on Abortion. If he, in fact, believes that every abortion is a personal tragedy, and has struggled deeply with this issue, he would not work so hard to keep abortion safe, legal and rare. If he believes that government must do better at encouraging alternatives to abortion and declares his support to proposals that decrease the costs of adoption and make the process easier, he cannot promote a pro choice agenda and pledge support for Roe v. Wade.

This smacks of playing both sides of the fence just for votes. There is great human treasure at stake everyday and he needs to stand clearly on change, one side or the other. What is it going to be, a vote for a Pro-life Obama or no vote at all. I just cannot bring myself to vote for abortion or John McCain.

Obama is a two face. His actions in his church say one thing while he is trying to get our votes. Please stop. McCain is better than you any given day.

For some to call a human being the anti-Christ is low and shows the lack of character of that individual. If you are a Christian, then I pray for you because you have missed the meaning of true Christian faith. Do not question the faith of another person because you do not know what is their heart. Someone may look at your actions and wonder about your values. Obama is a professed Christian. He met with religious leaders from the right and the left. He probably met with them behind closed doors because they were unsure of him and the religious leaders from the left and right most likely mistrusted each other. Reporters are not necessary every time he meets with different groups. I applaud him for meeting with religious leaders from both the left and right at the same time. Often, both sides will not meet with each other. For the non-religious person, he is religious person. Should he not profess his faith? You have a right not believe in religion. I sure he respects that. You should give Obama the same courtesy to respect his right to exercise his faith. Many in the Democratic party seem to ridicule people for expressing their faith. As long as they do not ridicule you for not believing in religion, then it is OK. Trying to make people keep their faith to themselves is intolerant.

Has Obama never heard of separation of church and state? Now he wants to bring more religion into the Democratic Party? Haven't we had enough with Wright and Pfleger? I understand he wants to troll for votes. But at what cost? What will he owe these religious leaders? A voice when it comes to Supreme Court nominees? A voice on a woman's right to choose? A voice on gay rights? Is Obama already selling out?

How is this news? I have to pay 52.00 or more each time I fill my gas tank . That should be news! Mccain has met with religous leaders too and Billy Graham blamed the Jews for destroying America but nobody reported Bush's connection with him. With millions of dollars per week spent in IRAQ on the dime of hardworking Americans I do not even think that meeting with religous leaders are worth reporting. I also do not believe the familial relationships such as Obama having several past presidents in his maternal lineage is news either or that Dick Cheney is his cousin. HELLO. What about gas prices, food prices, service prices? What about salary cuts or unemployment? This is news! Pastors and lineage are not worth my time.

McCain is also quite a man of faith, advised by John Hagee and actively courted the endorsement of Pat Robertson and other equally racist and blind evangelicals.

McCain is no hero.

I would like to see Obama reach out to scientist and leaders in research fields. Let's get some logic back into government.

We need a president who is of the "Fact based movement."

Where is Michelle Obama? Is she working with Tony Robbins on improving her image – or what? Maybe with Oprah?

Wow - you would think the man would let the religion thing sit for awhile. Let it go dude...separation of church and state...and separate your religion and it's insanity out existence as far as I am concerned! In fact - why not just take over Trinity and leave politics for the adults? Your speeches would do much better there.

And they are trying to paint him as the most liberal democrat ever. The republicans do this to every single democrat that runs for president. When are we going to calling them on this. This is part of their psychological war-fare to scare everyone to the polls. Next they'll be calling him the anti-christ as they do all the democratic presidents. Okay republicans here you go. He's deeply involved with the faith communities too. Not any particular one like you tried to pull off in the beginning, but was discovered that it was the as usual republican propaganda. Can you repubs please find something new and/or original to lie about, come up with, destroy a legitimate persons reputation with, or at least try to because It's not the peoples fault that you and your parasitic-political-conspiracies are old, tired, and retired.

Independent Voter, there's a big difference between talking to religious leaders, or people of faith in general, on the one hand, and breaking down the proper wall of separation of religion and government on the other. I'd like my president to be talking to and listening to all kinds of Americans from all walks of life. I would hope that my president wouldn't then simply tow any group's line.

This worry reminds me of the Bush administration's fear of talking to our enemies. As if, through talking, we will be used and abused. I'd like to think my country and its values are A LOT stronger than that. Confidence over fear. That's the American way, at least in my opinion.

as there is separation btwn church and state, there is also a right for individuals to practice religion with respect for tradition and faith. Obama is right to recognize this.

Tracy says:
"All you guys are hogwash, bull crap, Hillary Clinton, ticked off supporters. Obama is gathering information from everyone. He's meeting with them today, he may meet with gays/lesbians tomorrow, he may meet with white folk, then black folk, he may meet with homeless folk, he's trying to hear from everyone. There are so many of you out there hoping he will fail, but I have news for you, he listens, he hears, he observes, and he informly makes his decisions. He gathers information, he does not just make a decision because you and I say so… Y'all so stupid."

Gosh, he may even meet with THE GAYS?? Wow, what a guy.
Yet he hasn't tried to connect with us older woman who, like Hillary, are evidently are only "Likable enough". I'm guessing that ain't going to happen anytime soon. What d'ya think, Trace?

The mainstream corporate media and Hollywood elite hand-picked this second rate senator because, unlike Hillary, he could easily be controlled to do their bidding. Add the self-reverential celebrity-worshipping Oprah to the mix, stir in some young women who have no clue how women of Hillary's generation paved the way for their reproductive and workplace rights, plus an unfortunate Bush-Clinton-Bush-Bush oligarchy, and we find ourselves in the situation we're in: a neophyte Democratic candidate who is as deep in the pockets of corporate interests and their criminal cronies as McCain or Clinton, yet infinitely less electable. Well, enjoy your rallies this summer, you vapid lemmings. You bought the whole deal hook, line, and sinker and have nothing to show for it but a pantywaist in an empty suit.

When I saw some of the Obummers proposing Caroline Kennedy as VP today, it became clearer to me that they don't even have a grasp of the most basic of political realities. Not only is Kennedy a vacant, rich debutante who made a name for herself by publishing her parent's writings and slapping a foreword on them, she's also happens to be one of the least politically astute Kennedy's of all time. She's even dumber than her brother, who flew a plane at pretty much a vertical incline straight into Nantucket sound, all the while thinking he was flying horizontally. Come to think of it, sounds a lot like Obama.

Amazing that you STILL don't fully appreciate the implications of what you've done. You've handed power right back to the Republicans, only you're too busy texting each other and posting photos on your insipid facebook pages to notice. All this talk about disgruntled Clintonites needing to grow up? That we're stupid even? My guess is that maybe you need to take a closer look in the mirror. Oh, I forgot, that's the first thing you do in the morning because, like Obummer, you're all style and no substance.

Spencer,

Obama isn't going negative. Let me explain about debating, you have to let your audience know why the opposing side plan is not good for America and vise versa. He's sticking to the issues. Now if he start talking about his age, clothes, wife, etc, then that's going negative. As long as your fighting your opponent on the issues, it's not going negative. Read about debating, you just may gain some knowledge.

Just one question for Obama: Hey, Obama, who's your mama?

Which rent a preacher who hates America you going to bible study with now Obammy

I think it's great that he's making an effort to reach out to the religous leaders. Obama is trying to represent all, you have to keep in mind that there are millions of Americans who believe one way or not. Trying to meet in the middle is hard, because your trying to appeal to everyone. To those that oppose him, remember not everyone leader is always going to have the same complete beliefs. The best thing about looking for a leader is strength character, credentials and do you feel their proposals will help get America on track. If you feel Obama isn't it and McCain is, that's your decision. I'm not going to spend mind time bashing Hillary or her supporters. I will reach out to them if they choose to accept and to McCain and his cult clan, move out of the way.

Keep religion out of government and out of public life - just as our founders wanted.

One of the main reasons I've supported Clinton is because of Obama's crazy religious stuff. Right-wing or left-wing, it doesn't matter - it's bad for freedom and bad for America.

HEY RANDY,

IS THE OBAMA YOUTH KINDA LIKE THE HITLER YOUTH. HMMMM?

The worry that this is some 'secret' meeting is misplaced. One of the things that I really like about Obama is his willingness to NOT grandstand sometimes. The fact that he had this meeting was not secret at all and was not meant to be hidden. The meeting itself, though, was not for public display and not for media hyping/distortion. It was for talking with a variety of religious leaders. I'd say that this is the opposite of pandering to Americans of faith. It's called dialogue. Substance over show.

oh man he's already bring in the TRINITY CHURCH OF HATE. hey BO ( and thats cause you stink) you already starting with the cover ups and decieving the country huh. there you go sheep (cause that's what his followers are). He has already started hiding stuff. like i've said time and time again LLLOOOOSSSEEERRR ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! HE JUST THE BLACK VERSION OF BUSH, THATS WHY HE HAS DRAWN SO MUCH INSPIRATION FROM REPUBLICANS, HE ALWAYS HAD SOME GOOD THING TO SAY ABOUT REPUBLICANS DURING HIS CAMPAIGN. OBAMA THE UNDER COVER REPUBLICAN.

And you people wonder why other countries around the world reading these blogs think America is the land of "HYPOCRITES". Our leaders always talk about spreading democracy and equality and the rule of law yet our people just spew hatred,ignorance, hypocrisy, racial division and religious intolerance. Oh yeah and let's not forget paranoia.

GET A GRIP

Wonder why it had to be behing closed doors? Did he threaten them? Psaki also said in another article that bho had a long history of reaching across the isle – he's barely been a senator for 2 yrs and most of that has been on the campaign trail! How much of that kool-aid has she been drinking.

This whole meeting is laughable coming from a guy who sat in the same church for 20 years listening to hate against whites and the U.S.. He embraced his racist church, his minister, and the Black Value System they preached. I don't know one Christian who would have listened to those horrible rantings from Wright and Pfleger without looking for a different church. Now you're all sucking up to Obama as if his church of choice for the last 20 years was not a despicable pit of racism and intolerance.

I'm nervous about these meetings because of Obama's past connections with racists such as Wright and Pflaeger. I don't believe any presidential candidate has any business get too closely involved with religious groups as a business matter. I'm Catholic, but I certainly don't want my priest giving advice to politicians! Obama needs to get his priorities in order: America first and America's issues. Remember, church and state are separate. This is just another example of Obama's naivete.

Dear "Over turn roe v wade,"
How can "pro-life" people who think abortion should be outlawed ALSO think that dropping bombs on children and pregnant women is okay? I'd really like to know why most "pro-lifers" are also pro-war, as you (and most Republicans) seem to be.

Try going to confession Mr Obama and apologize to God for sitting in that HATE FILLED CHURCH!

Excellent.

Nothing should be secret. We get enough of that with the Bush Adm. Give us the names of each one you met with. Don't do like Cheney with the energy meeting. If you want my vote put all out there. Tell the truth.

"Behind closed doors" is "Politics as Usual"... Here we go, just another politician sneaking around... That is NOT the change that this guy was preaching...
AMAZING!!!!

Independent voter make up your mind who are you voting for? All the candidates are Christians. AND the rep party promotes it even more. And if you see Rev. Wright again, good, so you will also see Rev. Hagee and the others, still speaking their minds about politics and religion, so what? They are not running for Prez.

So... when Bush or Clinton meet with someone behind closed doors they're being 'secretive' but when Obama does it he's 'bringing positive change?'

Why meet privately?

Obama is very confident about talking people to go his way. The proverbial sweet-talker. Don't be fooled, people.

OBAMA is about change, It is different and I am proud to see him bring unity into his campaign. I am catholic and I have friends of ALL religions, we are in the 21st century. I see CHANGE!

Vic is an idiot!!!!

Republicans are scared to death. They have no solutions and just causing waves.

The old american ways are dead – a new america is born.

Some of them are posing as former Hillary supporters.

Don't believe them for a minute.

His father endorsed Obama along with the Oklahoma Governor!!!!! Don't believe the hype.

CNN will not post my comments. This guy's dad is David Boren who endorsed Obama some time back along with the Okla Governor. THAT"S RIGHT they endorsed Obama!!!!! Okla is NOT that conservative, don't believe the hype. Leave your comments on this guy's web page...Dems unite, not divide.

" O.B.A.M.A "............

Here's a man who complain's about, John McCain &
George Bush meeting behind closed " Door's " without any of the
so called " MEDIA " present. Yet, Obama will meet with Evangelical's
behind closed " Door's " without" MEDIA "........ Why do you suppose
this is......? Maybe the Rev. J. Wright, and Father Phleger will be Guest
Speaker's........?

Laughing-Out-Loud !

McCain next " President " come November.............................................!

Lets Go Dems!!!!

It will be a concrete symbol of our societal evolution once candidates for any office can afford to utterly ignore the religeous zelots who seek to inject their personal fairy tales into the political arena to create their theocracy.

For people like myself who don't dabble in metaphysics, it will be a welcome shift towards reality and responsibility.

I have read the article three times. It says "included were . . . " It does not say Christians only. Frankly, I have reached the point that I do not care if the candidate is a Druid priest who likes to dance around Stonehenge at the Midsummer Festival daubed in blue paint so long as I am free to follow my beliefs or lack thereof. But, religion seems to be an issue so having discussions does not hurt.

Now I am going to read why Cindy McCain won't serve in husband's adminisration. Maybe she is mad because he will veto beer! It is the major source of her wealth. He said it but presumbly meant to say bill instead of beer. But since when did a potential First Lady acquire such political importance in elections?

This is very positive. I continue to be amazed by some of you who write on this blogs. I wonder if you are as dumb as you sound. Why can we all start having honest, positive, uplifting, inspiring conversation on the these topics. All you who still mentioned the Rev Wright and all those comment, do you know how ridiculous you sound. What are you learning or gaining from being so negative and hateful. Life is very short. The campaign between Obama and Hillary started out very well. It has caught the attention of the World. Many of us are saddened and dissappointed that Hillary and Bill strikebecame sour and said some things about Obama that have some you still talking. She has a lot of work to do to undo some of her selfish comment like obama has no substance, and that he is not experience. Because some of you are do not have the intellect to know that she was just saying these things to win at all cost. So because of your prejudices towards Obama you are hanging on to those words and inject into every conversation... Obama will always include everyone in everything he do. He is a true Democrat, meaning of the people, for the people and by the people.

A Vote for Barrack Obama is a vote for Hillary Clinton because they support the same cause.
A vote for John McCain is a vote for a George Bush third terms more wars, bad economy and more country will not want to deal with our country. If you were really a true Hillary supporter that want a better America for this generation and the future generation you must vote Democratic this November. Please do yourself a good favor and vote for the Democratic nominee this coming November.
No hard feeling because Hillary has none against Barrack. We must put the Republican out of the white house.
As you can see, we are in a big recession and that will get worse with a John McCain.
I want to tell John McCain that gas tax holiday is not a solution for our energy problem and is not going to be a solution. This gas tax holiday shows that John McCain do not understand the economy. Keating 5 john McCain took money from the Keating five for political favor.

Obama is Getting Togather With His Pool Of "Anti American , Anti White , Radials " He Swims With !!! .

This Democrat backs Sen. John McCain

No Obama !!!!!

READ MY LIPS--NO OBAMA!!!!!!

Obama is leaving no stone unturned when it comes to his campaign, and spreading his message of being a uniter. I sign of REAL leadership.

Religion has NO place in poltics. All Americans are to be respected and represented. There is no place to allow religious dogma to decide which Americans and which values count.

Democrats sure criticized republicans for invoking their faith over and over, and for connecting with religious leaders for the past 7 years. But now that it's Obama... "ooo, he's different! We can't state a single valid reason why we apply different standards to him, but if you criticize him for doing the same things republicans did in the past then... um... you're a racist!"

Obama is pretending to be a saint in an effort to gain evangelical voters. Do you think they are stupid enough to vote for you, Barack? I don't think so. It's just simply because you are the most liberal of the liberals. How can the most leftist expect votes from the rights?

You can fool people, but you won't be able to fool God. The evangelicals are just too faithful to God to be attracted by your deceptive cult like speech. Trust me, they will never vote for a liberal because the ideology is too much different, especially with the moral values. Of course you the Dems never care about moral values (and sacrifice) because most of you are immoral (don't expect you the Dems will ever care about sacrifice). Because of you, this country has become immoral. But thank God, there are still many moral people in this country and that are the evangelicals.

You may try to persuade the religious leaders, Barak, but believe they will never be able to be persuaded. Even if they do, the evangelical citizens will not.

You mean he didn't invite his Rev Wright? Hmmm ... why not?

The main ones that swear they will vote for McSame will be the same ones in here next year blogging and complaining about high GAS, losing their HOMES and their JOBS....

THIS IS ABOUT THE PARTY AND NOTHING ELSE....

VOTE- Democratic or VOTE poverty--

we must STICK TOGETHER-

or WE WILL BE THE NEW 3RD WORLD

Do not let the GOP use US!!

You know we've criticized Bush for the last 7 years for all its secrecy, for behind-doors meetings, and keeping their supporters and advisors anonymous. We've criticized the Clintons for the 8 years before that, and actually for the same 7 years since.
But oh no! It's Obama. When HE continues having closed-door meetings it's all fair game...

Hmm. Sounds like he's trying to slip them some of the money he got from the primaries to "express support" for him. Weasel..

Obama meets with religious leaders behind closed doors.
What is this?
Promise them no to pay tax.
If they are involved in politic and they have to pay tax.
I hope people wake up, vote with their conscience and realize that their vote can make a difference.

I'm amused how Obama supporters, who have criticized Bush and Clinton for all the 'secrecy' don't apply the same standards to their own man. Is this the 'change' Obama will bring? More closed door meetings? More secrecy?

good job!!!!!!!!

To NYC: Cool your jets. This is his first meeting. How do you know he will not be meeting with others. Geeez, people can only do one thing at a time.

Does Barack Obama have the right to hold private meetings or must everything be done in public? Do you want him to hold a news conference every time he talks with someone?

Cut the man a little slack. For some of you, he can't do anything right. If you've already made up your mind, then leave him alone and listen to McCain. If you want to know more, please go to barackobama.com.

And please stop comparing Obama to Bush. Their IQs aren't even close.

Look out beer drinkers. Today Senator McCain has said he will veto all beer with earmarks so I guess the USA is going to be a DRY COUNTRY if he is elected. I wonder what he has been drinking to have seen a beer with "Earmarks". LOL

To All of you,
I want to congratulate for having Senator Obama to be soon you New President. He is showing the quality of a true leader.CONGRATULATION TO ALL AMERICAN PEOPLE
CANADA FOR OBAMA

Here we go again!!!!

America should be a place where people should not fear
Religion taking over the government!

Americans should feel free to practice any faith.
Americans should feel free to practice NO faith.

Religion should not be a part of politics!

Religion should be a personal choice,
remember what JFK said???

Why do Religious leaders need to be consulted in private??
Just another special Interest trying to get special priveliges
and promises in return for their votes!! These pontifs have
lowered themselves to bartering their followers votes,
to further their agendas at any expense!

Shameful!

Obama, please make a speech like JFK, and be sure
to let draw that clear line between Religion & Government.

Wow, Deb of AZ with her negative comments is posted constantly!

Nevada female voter for Obama: thank you for clarifying the "non-faith" representation. That blogger left me dumbfounded.

People of faith have to remember "all are called, not all will come". We have to remember that we are many a people, and that not all of us will apply common-sense to everyday circumstances or, as in this case, real logic in this election process.

Obama's goal is to unite American's by bridging together the commonalities we have as individuals. I would be very wary of a leader who didn't. Remember Cheney answer to American's legitimate concerns?..."So."

Choose your leaders wisely......Obama '08

This guy is the biggest phony. He meets BEHIND DOORS . . . thought he said in the debates that he would never do that. This guy is a big liar with zero experience to run this Country. Yes I would love to see a black american become President of this country but NOT BARACK. He is not qualified. He can't debate, he swiches on issues, he is the typical politician. Quiting his church just this year after twenty years have gone by; wearing a flag pin only in the last couple of weeks, saying he would not have meetings behind closed doors, give me a break. Go back to the senate and learn something. McCain in 08 since Hillary was pushed out.

There is a place in hell for all REPUBLICANS. We'll see all of you soon...........

"And yet, there Obummer is, insisting that religion matters. Why should preachers, priests, ministers, and various other nefarious spiritual charlatans of organized religion have any say in who becomes our president or vice president? Hillary Clinton would never stoop so low. Jeez, the guy has no balls at all, does he? What a pantywaist."

Whoa there Sarah with your repetitive negative comments on these blogs! Your Republican undies are showing! BTW, Hillary would and has stooped lower! But I wouldn't have whined and stomped my feet and behaved childishly if she had received the nomination, and I would've voted for her to unite the party and win the White House in '08 – JUST LIKE SHE's ASKING HER FOLLOWERS TO DO NOW WITH OBAMA!

Wow – From what I've been reading on these blogs the past week, there truly are some people who need to have their voter's registration cards revoked!

deb in az June 10th, 2008 5:23 pm ET

"was his mentor there?"

He was raised by a single white mother, Sent him to Prinston and Harward. His mentor was his mother, who got up at 4am everyday to teach him before she left for work. How many of us could think of what she did, let alone doing it. Don't be sarcastic to his mother deb. You may be a hard core GOP.

obama and wright

obama and wright

obama and wright

20 years

20 years

20 years

enough said

Obama shouldn't be bothering with these people. They can't interfere with government. Keep church and state separate!

What can they do? Seriously. Someone answer that question.

Obama '08!

can someone PLEASE give this guy his own church ??

maybe then he'll drop out and we can get our REAL candidate back. (you know, the one the people VOTED for??)

separation of church and state should mean exactly that. i want a president, not a flipping preacher.

this is absolutely disgusting.

It would be nice if Obama would let the American people know why he remained a member of a black liberation church where the pastor preached hatred and racism. Sorry leaving the church now is meaningless . . .why didn't he leave long ago. Leaving the church now just means he is pandering to the voters.

Did God attend the meeting to support Obama?

Vig June 10th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

"This is my take on Obama: tries to be everything to every faction. My prediction: if this guy gets elected he will be one of the most ineffective leaders, following in Bush's steps."

Yes, you want only your side to be heard, but not the other side. That is the biggest problem we face as a nation going to the reccession, and the quiagmire in Iraq. There are many people like you vig, who do not care about the other side / person / child. It is only about "me" and "us". We will not go forward as a country if we continue to think this way. That is why we need Obama, to unite the country, which is deeply divided.

Where Have All The Flowers Gone-www.fourtogo.blogspot.com
A song from the 60's that evoked strong emotions during a long war at that time, "with gone to graveyards everyone" the ending stanza of that song spoke volumes to all the young soldiers losing their lives in Vietnam. Another endurance race war that was never won. Another country which was destroyed during that war. Another president with just an Agenda. Strangely during that time oil prices rose significantly causing gas to go to oh say $1.35 a gallon. Interest rates went through the roof (14-17%), and the economy was also in a recession.

Does it all sound too familiar? If government does not recognize past mistakes, they are doomed to repeat them. And repeat them, America surely has. I have never lived in a time where America is less respected. A country that stood at the top of the world in terms of respect, power, reverence and technology is now spoken about harshly even from bloggers in foreign countries. Bloggers in the Middle East blog about how we are the terrorists, coming in and bombing their museums, destroying their buildings, architecture. It's painful to read, and more painful to understand the truth of it.

But people in that 60's era had not had their teeth ground down as we do today. Today no revolt, no protest, not even gas line grumblings. All just march in their socially accepted lines.
Posted by R&M at 3:35 AM 0 co

Now, that is a good thing.....because frankly those of faith founded this nation and somewhere along the line we have put that aside. you can still maintain separation of church and state....having faith doesn't dimish that.....the Presidental role is not for the vain, but those truly seeking to do good for the people with the people to be a part of the process....and that means the believer and the unbeliever.....if I were in that role I'd seek spiritual wisdom as well...our country's destiny is at stake!

keep religion out of my government

If he met with people from the south, would you complain that he is leaving out the people from the north?

If he meets with military people would you complain that he is not meeting with civilians?

Give it a rest! There's no reason for nastiness or criticism here.

He's meeting with some guys this week. Next week he will meet with somebody else. I'm sure he will do his best to get around to your group.

I thought Obama was against back room closed meetings? Change you can believe in? The only change thus far is, who's doing it. I will write Hillary Clinton on my ballot in November.

I sure would like to see the photos of most of these people who are posting on these blogs.

It would bring a very interesting point to everyone answers.

My guess is that hes looking for another anti-white, anti-American church where Michelle can feel proud of the USA for the FIRST TIME IN HER LIFE!!!

These people do not deserve to serve in the white house.

They both disgust me.

In secret Wow. You don't think Wright, Farahkan or Pfleger was in there do you?

i wonder if Father Pfleger was there after promising his boss he would stay out of politics. I'm sure they were all ultra liberal preachers who want to make sure their parishoners keep getting government handouts.

I wonder if Rev. Wright was there?
maybe William Aires?

oh wait...those 2 are on the VP list

Yes we have separation of church and state, but these leaders represent a VERY large constituency of the country, and should not be ignored. Our leaders should respect that, and that's why Obama is going to be an awesome president.

Obama/Webb 2008

I agree that there should be a separation of church and state. Unfortunately in this country.. anyone political figure who would dare step out and say that he's not religious would be demonized as a heathen. Unfortunately.. that's our wonderful country. If you don't believe in God.. you must be evil.. or at least that's the way they think in many 'conservative' parts of the country.

I think this is great that faith is very important to him that he is reaching out to the leaders of many peoples. Obama will be a president for all the people, that's for sure!

This is just another wise action of Obama!

Aren't these the same people trying to sue him for using the name Joshua in his proposal? Sorry... I know he needs the support of religious leaders.. but they are so hypocritical and often backwards thinking. These are the same people who refuse to teach the theory of evolution... because physical evidence just doesn't compare to blind faith.

Obama is up to no good!!!!!

Was Rev. Wright with you again Sen. Obama? praying? Remember him? Wright was your mentor, you said it!! Remember???????

Post this:

Don't want anyone to know you are still meeting with ol' buddy Wright and Pfleger huh?

And behind closed doors. All this secrecy from a man who preaches transparency.

What kind of change is this really? Constantly changing positions? A two faced Obama? Is that what our nation needs?

so much for a transparent washington. first a private closed door meeting with HRC and now this. He's a hypocrite and will not get my vote in the fall.

Obama is more liberal in his views than many other Christians but, Obama is a Christian with a relationship with Jesus as Lord. McCain while endorsing some Christian views, is not a Christian. McCain does not claim to be a Christian, does not mention Christ. And refers to a prominant Theologian like John Hagee as crazy. I know most of you who read this blog could care less. But, as a Christian, I feel better knowing the President will recognize that there is a Higher Authority in this universe than the President of the United States and that he will be held morally responsible for his decisions.

Completely agree with Vig. Obama, if president, will be historic but ineffectual.

If this meeting is a secret, why did Obama's staff leak kit to the press?
Is there a reason why he wants the public to know that he is having a SECRET meeting with a bunch of RELIGIOUS LEADERS. I support Obama, but this makes me wonder.

McCain's going after Hillary's BITTER women voters, why can't Obama go after evangelicals where McSame happen to be weak, I think it's fair game, besides Hillary was getting most of these votes although for the life of me I did not know why!!

EVANGELICALS ARE AS SO FAR APART FROM OBAMA AND HIS PASTOR-PRIEST FRIENDS THAT IT DOES NOT STAND A SNOWBALLS CHANCE IN A FIERY FURNACE . MORE THAN THAT OBAMA IS TOO LIBERAL WITH THE ESPOSUED BLACK LIBERATION THEOLOGY THAT OBAMA HAS A 20 YEAR REALTIONSHIP WITH.

Great job hOBO! talk about racial division and separation of Church and State, you take the cake for this one. I think everyone is beginning to see that your inexperience is catching up with you. You appear like a needle in a haystack, totally lost as to what to do next. Let's make this real simple. Vote for John McCain. Save America from self destruction.

Obama has met with enough religious "leaders."

Jimmy, the 'center' has been drifting RIGHT and fast for decades. It's not 'far left' to believe that our children's health should be comprehensively taken care of. But yes, energy is a national security issue. However, drilling for more oil is just a short-term solution, and Senator Obama seems to understand that.

Reaching out to the faith community is a priority for Barack Obama and will be a priority under an Obama Administration,"

I suspect many of you that are gushing in favor of this recoiled at the notion of President Bush's faith-based initiatives.

Your hypocrisy and ignorance is appalling.

Democrats!

Please, those who do not agree with your beliefs and policies (republicans) can only get to you IF YOU LET THEM! Some of the above comments are just off the wall, and not comments of true democrats, so please just let them talk to themselves. Ignore them!

Marcus West!
==========

"It just seems like something the AntiChrist would do"

Marcus you are the only thing about this article that is very very scary!

As a Catholic, I am happy to see Obama holding this type of meeting. He knows that vibrant, active people of faith will stand with the marginalized, and seek to care for the poor, elderly, stranger in our midst, etc. Though he does not carry the whole platform, it is much closer than the republicans who have marketed the right wing Evangelicals as a pawn. A lot of Christians have grown up from this myopic way of seeing, realize The Word cannot be limited in such narrow mindset, and are excited for what Obama has to offer to people across the spectrum of all faiths. Good for him for caring enough.

Nevada female voter for Obama–
"As to Mr. Obama's meeting, perhaps the only other faith community he should include would be rabbi's from the Jewish Community, but he has already met with them."

And why exactly are we excluding everyone else? There are more religions in this country than just two. Not a single person I am friends with is a Christian or a Jew (mostly agnostics, atheists, or Buddhists), so I guess we just don't count.

The RNC is paying bloggers to try and pull Clinton supporters over to McCain.

Don't listen to the same three or four people that flood the Ticker on a daily basis using different names – they are just paid hacks.

CNN POST THIS

Cindy CA – I liked your post. I agree, maybe instead the question should be "Is American ready for an intelligent president?"

The RNC is paying bloggers to try and pull Clinton supporters over to McCain.

Don't listen to the same three or four people that flood the Ticker on a daily basis using different names – they are just paid hacks.

once again Cnn is showing bias toward Obama, just saw Jeffery Tobin act like a complete a– on the Wolg Blitzer show If Cnn can not have people on their show , that are not bias, they should call their news program the Great Obama Show

Why would you bring up religion?? Is Reverend Wright on the way back in the headlines? Please talk about the real issues, gas prices, economy, foreclosures, food costs, crime, poverty, health care, Iraq, China, stock market, and so many other ISSUES!!!

But religion??? Leave it alone.......

I think it is a good move. Religion is an important factor for alot of voters and to get everyones aspect in how to reach them is good. Although it's a fine line to walk to try and seperate church and state, when that is a big part of American life no matter what religion you are. However I'm sure Fox nes and etc will try to spin it as some kind of anti Christ shin-dig...whatever.
Besides he did say a couple weeks ago thathe was looking for a new church home. And that decision was a private one between him and his wife.

I support you but I don't like all of these secret meetings. If these ministers want their attendance kept secret they should move to Russia or Cuba because we are suppose to be living in a open society. Secret meetings are the type of things that Bush and your cousin Dick " SHOTGUN" Chaney would do.

What about all that transparency he was going to bring? Seems pretty secretive and elitist to me.

Thank God for a man who is not afraid to sit down and talk with people. Keep up the great job, Senator Obama.

Marcus West and the AntiChrist.
You have got to get a life. Hell, if he can reduce are dependence on Arab Oil, end the war in Iraq and make sure that the rich fat cats that loves Bush and McSames tax cuts pay more, then I would vote for him if he was the devil himself.

Hhhmmm – Hey look over there! Could this be Obama's way of getting his prior poor judgement of his personal religious advisers out of the media's eye.

Wonder if Rev Wright was invited?

What happened to separation of church and state?

THINK BEFORE YOU QUESTION WHY THIS MEETING WITH RELIGIOUS LEADERS WAS HELD PRIVATELY AND BEHIND CLOSED DOORS. IF I WERE A MEMBER OF JOHN MCCAIN'S CHURCH, WHICH I HAVE ATTENDED, AND SUPPORTED OBAMA, I WOULD EXPECT THE SAME COURTESY FROM HIS PASTOR, CLOSED DOORS AND UNIDENTIFIED.

After 8 years of ultra right wing Bush and his followers running the country, so called conservatives have lost their credibility for warning of what would happen under left wing liberals.

Bill Clinton was considered a left wing liberal and the country wasn't doing so bad under his lead. I know I had A LOT more money in my pocket an the end of the month than I do now.

Yes, family values were out the window, but the man knew how to run a country, for the most part. Mistakes were made, no doubt, but not even close to the catastrophe of Bush.

With Obama, you get the intelligence and charisma of Clinton and the family values and 'normal guy' appeal of Bush. Plus, he's HONEST, which is a BIG change this country would benefit from.

Obama's oratory skills is the cherry.

Conservatives should NOT be complaining about Obama.

He's talking to them, not inviting them into his campaign. Faith is important to most Americans. It makes sense to me.

I have faith that Team Obama does things by committee and that those who surround Obama are very wise and smart. They know what they're doing. Obama 08 & 12

Religion, religion, religion... is that all this guy is about?

When do we atheists get our private meeting? How about the Hindus and the Buddhists and the pagans? Why does it always seem that we are forever catering to Christianity in this country? Sure Christians are the majority, but the rest of us live here too, and we're getting mighty sick of religion being pounded down our throats.

ummmm, okay. let me get this straight. Obama meets with every possible religious leader except anyone from the jewish community.

Way to go Obama. We are so losing this.

Closed door meeting? Only 3 members were willing to be identified? Is this the change and transparency in government that BO has been promising? In my opinion, this man is dangerous. I want to know what was talked about in this meeting. Don't you?

As a part of Obama Nation I know that wiser heads will prevail in choosing the best person to be his VP. And if that happens to be Clinton then so be it. So for my 'peeps in Obama Nation saying they will not vote for Obama if she's on the ticket, please reconsider that. Don't you realize that his team knows better then we do who should be his VP?

And to those Clinton Supporters saying they won't vote for Obama if he doesn't choose her, please also reconsider. They won't do it out of spite or just because of the bad blood, but for reasons you and I are probably not going to be privy to. Team Obama will pick the candidate that they feel gives them the best chance to win in November. However, if you still feel that you will choose McCain out of spite then that's your prerogative but repeating it in these blogs will really not change anyone's mind.

jimF?

"the meeting includes people who support Obama....as well as some who do not .....who wanted to remain unidentified.

The people who do not support Obama wanted to remain unidentified.

Marcus West: "... but rather a paranoid worry. It just seems like something the "AntiChrist" would do. Ha. Look what television and media do to me. But it does seem very creepy."

It takes a very stupid person to come up with a perverted interpretation like yours. And frankly it is foolishness of the kind you put out here that will usher in the "AntiChrist" (to quote from your equally poor spelling).

"Any fool can make things bigger, more complex, and more violent. It takes a touch of genuis - and a lot of courage - to move in the opposite direction." – Albert Einstein.

Govern yourself(ves) accordingly.

I think most people expect that Mr. Obama will be viewed in ecumenical circles as the most genuine, faithful candidate in the race. He will bring his Christian faith with him as president but not be dominated by it. That's the balance we want.

I wonder how long will it take the closet republican operatives to start the sophomoric references to Wright & Pflegger on this blogg?

I will vote for Obama, and I could not care less what religeos people af any faith think!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! When we start electing presidents to please
some moralist religeos group or groups, then let's go back to the inqusition and let the church make laws for us to follow

What about how Bush lied to the religious right? Made fun of religious groups once they got the White House. There is a great book on how the republicans don't care.

I see the Republican blogs are still coming on here. Get a Life! You are so transparent. Only a Republican would be this dumb to not recognize who you are usually posing as Hillary people that will realize McBush is anti Roe Vs Wade.

Re: Marcus West comment, I have heard "anti Christ" mentioned several times today–now that is creepy and spooky

marcus west you are getting paranoid all right.

Probably telling them how important it is to keep church/state seperate – probably because of the flareups he had (every church I've been in has said some pretty bad stuff about others and other religions – quite sad in my opinion)

I'm an Evangelical and Obama has my vote.

We aren't allowed to display the Ten Commandments publicly, but our Presidential candidates can court religious leaders, in private, no less. THIS IS SCARY!

You would think this guy had learned his lesson by now:

America = Separation of Church and State!

If he had paid attention to that maxim 20 years ago, he might be a much better elected official today. But he didn't, and he's not.

In the next few weeks we can look forward to seeing Rev. Wright again. Today he announced he may not retire after all.

If I wanted ministers involved in government, I would have voted for the Evangelicals – no need – it seems they're coming in the back door.

He is so full of him self and only getting worse.
Democrats are easily fooled, but not this one. No vote for me even if Hillary is on the ticket
Democrats wake up and stop fooling yourselves before it's to late, he is not the second coming of Christ

Bottom Line: This a very intelligent man trying to help and unify the country of his birth, and the country that he loves.

Its a good idea to listen to what they have to say.

However, we should keep the idea of separation of church and state clear. This is one of the fundamental ideas of the founding fathers.

Also, he needs to make these meetings open to the press. Whenever, he leaves them out, the press will try to make more of it than usual.

If he wants to gain the condidence and truth of the electorate, then he has to be open for all types of discussions.

He shouldn't give the press any excuses to try to slander him.

Don't want anyone to know you are still meeting with ol' buddy Wright and Pfleger huh?

And behind closed doors. All this secrecy from a man who preaches transparency.

What kind of change is this really? Constantly changing positions? A two faced Obama? Is that what our nation needs?

We already know everything we need to know about where Obama stands on religion.

His 20 year involvement, participation and funding of a racist church says it all!

A private meeting, my foot. At this point, nothing should be private. I guess it was private so that we wouldn't know if Rev. Wright was present, or not. Actually, this is a presidential campaign, we have a right to know the participants in the meeting. What happen to CHANGE!

he was SELECTED not ELECTED...now he needs more of that

Still shopping for a politically correct church!!

So much for transparency and discretion. Haha. THE POLITICS OF CHANGE!

TO "Terrell" AND EVERYONE ELSE WHO THINKS OBAMA SHOULDN'T HELP CLINTON OR GIVE HER THE VP: SHE HAD A TOTAL OF 1,923 DELLEGATES IN THE END AND OBAMA HAD 2,156, A DIFFERENCE OF ONLY 233 AND YOU THINK THAT SHE DOESN'T DESERVE IT? SHE LOST OVER BY A HAIR, THIS NOMINATION WAS AS CLOSE AS EVER! SHE OBVIOUSLY DESERVES THIS AND MORE BUT I THINK SHE WOULD BE HAPPY IF OBAMA WOULD STOP DELUTING HIMSELF BY THINKING HE "REALLY REALLY" WON THE NOMINATION BY A VERY LARGE MARGIN SO HE WOULD STOP WRITING HIS STUPID LIST FOR THE VP, OBAMA ONLY HALF OF THE COUNTRY GAVE YOU THE NOMINATION, WILL YOU CONSIDER THE OTHER HALF?

His actions in the last 20 years and his silence in the midst of a raci st church tells us all we need to know about where he stands on religion.

We already know that he will say and do anything to get elected….but those are just words….it's his actions that speak to his true character and true feelings about people and race……HIS 20 years at Trinity applauding Wright said it all!

Thought you knew!! They expect us all to be sitting around the table in the WH with Barack "Hussein" Obama, holding hands, eating grits, and singing old black hymns. How dare this mult-racial man become POTUS!!! We are on the brink of historical destiny. They can hamper or slow it down, but they cannot stop what is meant to be. The primaries played out the way they did for a reason. I talked to some white people from California who wished they would have let their primary stay in early June like previous POTUS primaries, because it would have been highly likely Clinton would be the nominee. Florida and Michigan doing their primaries early against the DNC Rules was no accident either. It was a providence from above. Our time has come for a transformational leader of color to accomplish great things. I predict that both Obama and McCain will tie in the electoral college in the general election (269-269), and the House of the Representatives, which currently and will have a Democratic majority will select Obama as the next POTUS. However it happens, Michelle can start measuring for curtains in the Oval Office.

Hey, Marcus – Obama is scarey. He is a racist and hangs out with hateful, bitter people including his wife.

Better then McCain he wont even go there, to talk about faith nor to the religious groups... in his mind it is my way or the highway.. or bomb bomb bomb

what kind of religious leaders, the racist, hate filled kind. That seems to be the kind of leader he seems to respect.

@Marcus West
Please do tell how YOU know what the Anti-Christ would do (WWACD)?
If you're a believer in literal interpretation of Revelation (read: idiot) then you know that it is all predestined and the Anti-Christ will bring about your End Times, so what's the problem?

I AGREE WITH MARCUS WEST

I AM SCARED

VOTE MCCAIN/POWELL 08'

Is it a prayer meeting. We simply do not know enough about this meeting to blog on this post. And I do not blame the Ministers there for asking for a closed door meeting.

More religous leaders with their hands outstretched expecting someone to give them something for nothing.

So typical of churches everywhere

of course they dont want to be identified. they dont want their extremist american hatred spewing "sermons" on youtube.

So much for transparency...

from a guy who wants transparency and accounting in government....

Obama has yet to do anything to prove his worthiness as a candidate/nominee.

What a joke!

I guess he's on his mission of "change."

Blah, Blah, Blah...

I would write "goofy" or "donald duck" in before voting for this guy.

I think that it's great that he listens to other points of view. They may not be his own view but he's willing to see what EVERYONE brings to the table.

It's called getting all of the information before making a decision. It's about uniting people and letting their voices be heard.

Why is bringing different faiths together scary? Once we understand each other it will be easier to live together. Come on America what is this? The dark ages?

Anti-Christ? Pa-leeeeez....

He has to speak with these peddlers of guilt and fear. It's a necessary evil. I can't wait for the day an athiest or agnostic has a shot at the presidency.

King Richard was impatient. And all for the want of a horseshoe nail the kingdom was lost.

Is this the same candidate that says his Presidency will be transparent? He hasn't even been elected yet and already two "secret" meeting in a week. I guess when you have to learn your job as you go along, there will be some statements made that are just based ideals, not actuality.
Ready on day one?

Is he meeting with Muslim leaders, Jewish leaders or Christians.
Why can't he share it with the public.

We've gone so long in this country without honest leaders, we hardly recognize it when we see it.

He is indeed a breath of fresh air. He got me at "no lobbyists running the whitehouse"! Wow it takes a lot of guts to say he won't take lobby money, and won't be pushed around by the corporations that have essentially been running this country for years.

What about the separation of church and state? Is Obama trying to become a Republican? For a man who would not reach across the aisle in the Senate, he seems to be embracing one of the most divisive things in our nation. When I voted for Obama I was not aware of his connection to religious leaders like Wright and Pfleger. Now I find out he is courting other religious leaders. I don't know what promises he is making to them, but if he goes down the path of trying to bring the religious views of these faiths into his campaign, he will be violating the basic premise of the Democratic Party to keep religion out of our politics and government. Must Obama do everything the Republicans have been doing to divide the nation? I hope he doesn't sell out his constituency just to get religious votes.

He has to meet behind closed doors.
I would think that are testing his Christianity.
After Reverend Wright and Father Pflaeger they really should be researching his values

i'm an obamabot, but i'm not sure how i feel about this yet, i need to know more information.

if they're talking campaign strategy stuff, NOT GOOD! if he's just trying to get all kinds of people together to work towards a more cohesive america, then this agnostic says AMEN!!!

8 years of repugs, and then the campaigning for the democratic nominee, has really torn this country apart. the vast majority of us want THE SAME THINGS--nice home, food on the table, good schools for our kids, lower gas prices, health care, out troops home, our troops being given the help and benefits THEY HAVE MORE THAN EARNED, peace of mind (and NO MORE fear-mongering).

Church and State don't mix, do they?

This doesn't sound good.

Behind closed doors? What is he hiding now? Who does Obama think he is to hold this type of closed door meeting? You Obama supporter had better wake up and smell the coffee before it's too late. This jerk is going around promising something to everyone and will deliver on nothing. HE WILL STOP AT NOTHING TO GET WHAT HE WANTS!

McCain 08

This is very scary

Obama has no religion. He is trying to show us that he has faith. He has nothing. It is too late to meet religious leaders. Vote John McCain.

NO NO NO NO!!!

Religion has NO PLACE in our government! I do not like this AT ALL. Bush has already pushed his faith's agenda. THIS is not what the country is supposed to be about!

I'm aethiest – I don't see him wanting to meet us for anything.

Marcus West,
"It just seems like something the "AntiChrist" would do. Ha. Look what television and media do to me."

You think the Anti-Christ would be meeting with religious leaders??
Do you not understand what the word ANTI in anti-christ means.
What, you think Obama gathered um all together and demonized (is that even a word) them or something. Hey look on the bright side I'm sure somebody in attendance is capable of exorcisms.

You need to seriously stay away from the sci-fi channel.

all presidents meet with religious leaders everybody votes

What about some muslim clerics because he was born muslim and has a middle name and his father was muslim.

There is nothing wrong with it, at least he can be honest instead of hiding his true identity.

I would have thought he would be proud of it including his early education in religious muslim schools in Indonesia

Did he learn nothing? Are you hiding in there Rev. Wright and Pastor Pflueger?

Still for Hill

"Reaching out to the faith community is a priority for Barack Obama and will be a priority under an Obama Administration,".......you're kidding right? With HIS background? He didn't find "faith" until it worked politically. Until then, he found socialism and anti – U.S. rhetoric in church.

What does religion have to do with politics considering there are so many different religions.

I am sick of the moral police already

Go Obama

"Religious leaders", now that's a "strange gathering"; seeing how there is a separation of "Church" and "State"...........What can they really do? ........ they 're "Just Men".....We're going to need more than that; to get out of this mess......................

Hasn't the last misgiuded 8 years taught us that we should separate church and state? I agree, this is just creepy

What does it matter if the leaders that attended was African American or not????? Such a racist article.

Oh how I miss Hillary...please run on an independent ticket...Obama meeting with religious leaders in private-that's scary. They won't meet with him in public, what does that say about what they think of him. I just don't understand why they are meeting with him period.

to you all, the voters.

please vote based on where the candidates stand on the ISSUES, not the superficial stuff.

Thank You.

I see no problem with meeting with church leaders. After all, all things are possible through god and god only.

It had to be done. If conservative churches are pushing McCain from the bully pulpit as the only holy candidate, I think Obama has every right to share his viewpoints with those in the religious community as well.

Sounds more like he is trying make brownie points than campaigning for Presidency.

I CAN NO MORE DISOWN THAT MAN THAN I CAN MY OWN GRANDMOTHER!
How could he be so stupid?
If my preacher meets with him I will quit going to church.

As long as he meets with every worshiped religion in America, I guess it's okay. But, am I left out of his America since I don't have faith in a diety?

Maybe he just wants to find out what each discipline hates, and see if it matches his church's views.

Anyone who questions his “vetting” for President of the United States is “tangentially inconsequential.” Furthermore, everyone understands that voting “present” 130 times in the IL Senate is “trivial” compared to his having to sit in that church for 20 years just to advance his political career. He was not born to a black man from Kenya and a white woman from Kansas to end up earning the “infinitesimally” tiny salary of $14K a year as a community organizer. Nor did he attend Harvard so that he could steel a measly couple of thousand votes during his run for the IL Senate. NO! His vision has always been higher than that.

Do you anti Obama people read before you trash him or are you just anxious to trash him without hearing facts? It says in the article that some of the leaders while willing to meet with him chose to remain private. That is very understandable and he is just respecting their wishes. At least when you trash someone have your facts straight.

He will meet with many faiths. They said it is the first one., NYC native. Obama reaches out to all the people, not just some like McBush

Well done, well executed and I am more than confident the decision to meet in private was a great example of leadership as it reflects one with great poise and preparation for a new America in the future of Obama politics.

When a person lacks vision, it makes it hard for them to understand the true meaning of leadership and from the sound of some of these posts on this ticker, this is precisely why some were meant to lead and others were meant to follow. Lead on Obama lead on b/c the vision has been given to you.

DEMS 08

Are these all African American church leaders? The next thing is this all sounds like REVELATIONS in the BIBLE, SCARY. Obama and his wife just scare me WAY too musch to vote for him.

A TRUE MASTER POLITICIAN! DO WHAT YOU MUST TO BE ELECTED. IF HE INVITED THE IMAMS AND PEOPLE OF NON FAITHS (WHICH WE ARE UNSURE OF) IT WOULD FURTHER EXACERBATE THE TIRED WHISPERS OF HIS "MUSLIM FAITH". FORWARD TO HISTORY YOUNG CHAP

I like the fact that Obama shows grit.

The press must stop acting like Obama owes them an explenation every time he wants to do something.

There is a lot going on in the government that people never know about. Why is it different when Obama wants to meet with a group of people, religous or otherwise?

Soon, Obama will be the President of the United States. The Press must learn to be respectful and give him the space he needs when he needs it.

It is a shame that in a time of great economic stress and foreign policy anxiety, we as Americans allow the media networks to push what church leaders Barack Obama is meeting with. I guess you can throw that ole' "Freedom of religion" concept right out the window with the rest of our civil rights!

As usual people get paranoid or look at meetings like this to confirm their greatest fear. Is it possible that he just wants to know what issues concerns these religious leaders the most. Seems to me that it is consistant with his position that you speak with people and get their input before deciding on where one stands on issues of importance to those influencing various communities.

This shows he is a leader that engages in talks with different leaders and respects their wishes to speak candidly.

Obama understands the importance of faith in the lives of the American people. It only makes sense that he would be interested in what the faith leaders have to say.

NYC Native expressed the following concern: "What about other faiths? What about the "nonfaith" community? If he wants to meet with religious representatives, he should meet with representatives of all."

Actually, that's exactly what Sen. Obama is planning to do.

"This is one of several meetings he will have over the coming months with religious leaders," Psaki said.

Based on his pluralistic approach to issues affecting all of us, there can be little doubt that he will also meet with members of the non-faith community (of whom I am one).

Obama is sure a man of faith. His spiritual advisors include Rev. Jeremiah Wright, Rev. James Meeks, and Father Pfleggar. All three are extremely racist, liberal, and nasty people. These are the religious leaders Obama looks up to.

McCain '08 with a Democratic Congress
Clinton '12, '16

He is not wearing a blue turbin, for all you Nostradamus followers. This is a responsible meeting... one that can bode well for our future president.

OBAMA '08

Private meetings with Church leaders is uncalled for. Obama is a sneak and cannot be trusted. He is a wolfe in sheeps clothing. Obama needs to come out and make all his views clear from top to bottom. He has not done that. It needs to be done. It should be demanded, especially by the media who has been in his corner from the beginning. It is owed to the voters. He has slipped in as the nominee by a lot of pull, but we still do not know who this man really is. Now is the time, later WILL BE TOO LATE.

If he's Muslim, it's "get a rope". If he's Christian he's "the anti-Christ". This guy just can't win. I wonder what would happen if he decides he's atheist?

OBAMA PLEASE LISTEN WITH BOTH EARS WIDE OPEN, EYE'S WIDE OPEN....MAKE SURE TO ASK EVERYONE TO STAND THAT WAS SENT BY THE REPUBLICANS PARTY....meaning from McBush camp....

Listen to Emily June 10th, 2008 4:51 pm ET
Talk with them but don't promise them anything.
Keep church and state separate! PLEASE...............

Then tell us how they are if they don't want to be unidentified? jimF, I am sure they are fine.

Obama is a hypocrite..I do not like his inexperience, I think he and his campaign treated certain persons unfairly in this whole process..As for him attacking McCain, I thaught Obama said he would not be going negative with his opponent..I think he is proving otherwise..People know a lier when they hear one..........

NYC Native,

what in the world are you talking about?

If ignorance is bliss, there should be some very happy people that post on this forum.

Okay, I'm an Obama supporter, but Chicago, 30 people, no press, and a weekday? Seems like this is a non-factor to his campaign. Marcus, where's the proof in your accusation? Do you even read the Bible? Stop making stuff up.

Haters!!!!!!!!!!!!! He is going to do very well by this country, with or without some of you airhead's support....

All you guys are hogwash, bull crap, Hillary Clinton, ticked off supporters. Obama is gathering information from everyone. He's meeting with them today, he may meet with gays/lesbians tomorrow, he may meet with white folk, then black folk, he may meet with homeless folk, he's trying to hear from everyone. There are so many of you out there hoping he will fail, but I have news for you, he listens, he hears, he observes, and he informly makes his decisions. He gathers information, he does not just make a decision because you and I say so... Y'all so stupid.

I really don't understand why everyone gets so nervous when Obama talks to people. He's obviously a very savvy politician, or he wouldn't be where he is at this moment. You can bet that he's NOT making any promises, nor is he committing to anything except an on-going dialog.

Obama has demonstrated his finely-honed ability to listen to people, and then cut to the chase and solve the problems. He has demonstrated his ability to find and hire good people, and put them to work where they will do the most good, after getting as much information as possible. This is just another example of that ability.

Our country's core values are based upon the separation of church and state. It is important that we show respect to each side of that equation, but keep them separate (even though that doesn't always happen). Obama is making sure he understands the issues at hand for the religious leaders, so that their concerns can be addressed. This does not make him an "Anti-Christ" nor does it make him ineffective. Quite the contrary. It makes him a leader who listens. We haven't had one of those in almost a decade.

where are atheists? religions bring only sorrow and horror to the world

was his mentor there?

Obama is trying to appeal to the faith based community as well – these folks tends to vote Republican and are increasingly pulling away from McCain. Obama is just broadening his base and have this group come on board as well – smart move Mr. Obama!

He has to meet the religious groups behind closed doors.
If he had two men of the cloth that spoke such vicious words about whites and our country they really need to know how he feels about Christianty.
I know that I would question his moral values

THIS HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH EITHER OBAMA OR MCCAIN.
WOULD YOU BELIEVE THAT THIS IS REALLY FUNNY.
THIS IS THE LATEST IN THE NEWS:

GENNIFER FLOWERS AND PAULA JONES WHO BOTH CLAIM AFFAIRS WITH BILL CLINTON ARE SELLIN A TELL ALL BOOK FOR $
GUES HOW CHEAP" $I.99 (FOLKS THAT IS ONE DOLLAR AND 99 CENTS.) THE TWO ARE NOTHING BUT CHEAP WH@#$%S
AND THEIR CHEAP BOOK IS JUST WORTH AS MUCH.

WHY BILL CLINTON AT THIS TIME AND FOR WJHAT REASON?.
ONLY A TWIT CAN FIGURE THIS ONE OUT.

There should be no 'secret meetings' with religious leaders. I'm trying to support Obama because I desperately feel we need to change things and get away from elitist secret meetings with special interest groups. Sadly this smacks of the old ways. I imagine he promised them special treatment or consideration. On what? Abortion? Gay rights? More Bush era 'Faith Based' style handouts?

It's what I would expect from Bush, Cheney, or McCain. Looks like we are in for 4 more years of business as usual if he wins.

America so badly needs a 3rd party candidates.

also it is 2008 going to 09 if people of different takes in life cant even speak to each other than we as a nation and as a world would be very far from advancing to that next level of comprehension and understanding.

He met with a very broad group of many different churches. Besides it's not like he met with lobbyist or set government policy like Cheney did when he met with energy executives 40 times...always in secret.

Was Jeremiah Wright attending? Or that Catholic nut? Or Mr. Farrakhan?

I believe this to be an important step to quell misconceptions about BHO. To sitting down w/ these folks is politics by inclusion, not by exclusion. Clearing the air and asking questions can only help all sides be less jugemental. God Bless America

Don't worry - he's only playing the "faith" card.

Besides . . . anyone who questions his “vetting” for President of the United States is “tangentially inconsequential.” Furthermore, everyone understands that voting “present” 130 times in the IL Senate is “trivial” compared to his having to sit in that church for 20 years just to advance his political career. He was not born to a black man from Kenya and a white woman from Kansas to end up earning the “infinitesimally” tiny salary of $14K a year as a community organizer. Nor did he attend Harvard so that he could steel a measly couple of thousand votes during his run for the IL Senate. NO! His vision has always been higher than that.

Save the babies from the Hillary supporters that want to keep the right to kill them. Call it what you want it is MURDER. Republicans for LIFE. Let them live. They want to live just like you.
McCain08

I hate the question "Is America ready for a black president?". My answer is "We had George Bush, so that means we were ready for an idiot. Why not try an intelligent man, black, orange or green.

Barack 08

He's only playing the "faith" card:

Anyone who questions his “vetting” for President of the United States is “tangentially inconsequential.” Furthermore, everyone understands that voting “present” 130 times in the IL Senate is “trivial” compared to his having to sit in that church for 20 years just to advance his political career. He was not born to a black man from Kenya and a white woman from Kansas to end up earning the “infinitesimally” tiny salary of $14K a year as a community organizer. Nor did he attend Harvard so that he could steel a measly couple of thousand votes during his run for the IL Senate. NO! His vision has always been higher than that.

Good. I think he should have done this months ago. He is a Christian and a good man. Ministers should stand with him.

Let's not fall for anything, let's stand for America. Stand with Barack.

He gets my prayers every night. I want him to win and I want to take our country back to decency and honor.

First of all let me say that I am a white 70 year old mail who will vote for Obama. I think that the more people he meets with the better. That includes folks from Iran, with pre-conditions as well as Cuba. Let's have us all notice that Bush meets with people, unfortunately he is even more disliked by the rest of the world than we dislike him.
Obama is another JFK and if the people in my age group would only remember what excitement we felt when JFK was running for President then maybe they would stand behind him like I do.
I have a Grandson in the Navy who has already been in the Iraq area and I don't want any more Grandsons going there.
He will be effective as a President because he will reach out to people from all walks of life.
Only an idiot or a racist would think diferently.

Its Going To Be A Landslide Victory For Obama!

Unity.

United States of America, not divided.

Obama 08'

dont hate on it its just that when you are president you need to talk to everyone thats all.

I know it's hard for some of us to fathom a leader who is for the people...all people....but this is why I am feeling this Senator.

"What about representatives of the "non-faith community", NYC Native? I don't think that people who have no faith have heads or ministers of non-faith...talk about over-inclusion! Those who have no faith probably don't care about being represented anyway. I doubt they have issues that could be addressed in such a forum. Their issue is they have no faith! As to Mr. Obama's meeting, perhaps the only other faith community he should include would be rabbi's from the Jewish Community, but he has already met with them.

To me, this is actually kind of scary. I mean, not because of seperation of church and state, but rather a paranoid worry. It just seems like something the "AntiChrist" would do. Ha. Look what television and media do to me. But it does seem very creepy.

I am a staunch Obama supporter; however, his seeming need to have religious people around him bothers me. I also don't like how he is apparently only meeting with Christian leaders. What about other faiths? But, I am very a-religious (not "anti" just "a"), so anything dealing with a politician and religion would bother me. The 2 should be kept separate, just like a voter shouldn't voted based on religious views.

Obama would be just fine. I suspect he want to bounce off idea off them about a church he has chosen to attend. He probably want some list of churches, members, and church pastor vetted y the Christian community before he commit himself to sitting in the pews.

Its just crazy the way the media is behaving like parasites and maggots who feed on stench.

CNN, FOX News, and all the like, leave the guy alone and let him enjoy his christianity

Vig – you are so narrow minded. Since when does talking with different people, or different factions make you ineffective. Obama is the most thoughtful politician I have seen in years. Talking with many factions, listening, and than drawing thoughtful conclusion's is what makes a leader a leader. It does not mean you Obama is going to try and be everything to everyone. Just look at his firm stance on the War, the economy, and you will see that he does not try to be everything to everyone. LISTENING is the thing THE BUSH Administration lacked, and look where that left everyone!!

Vig – think before you write!!

Hoping for a better world!!!!

OBAMA AND HIS PASTORS AND PRIEST 20 YEAR FRIENDS ARE TOO FAR LEFT OF THE MODERATE CENTER TO BE ELECTED TO THE PRESIDENCY. THE GOP IS ALREADY ON TARGET ON THEIR
TAX AND SPEND SLOGAN AGAINST OBAMA. ENDING THE OIL SUBSIDIES IS JUST A FIRST STEP. OIL AND GAS DRILLING AND BUILDING NEW REFINERIES ARE ABSOLUTE NECESSITIES IN THIS UNCERTAIN WORLD . THE ENVIRNOMENTALISTS AND NANCY PELOSI WOULD COMPROMISE OUR NATIONAL SECURITY
FOR SOME INCONSEQUENTIAL ENVIRONMENTAL REASONS..
THE OIL COMPANIES ARE NOT IDIOTS. THEY WILL TAKE UTMOST CARE ON WHERE THEY DRILL AND USE ALL MEANS NECESSARY TO SAFEGUARD OUR NATURAL RESOURCES. WE AGREE ON TAXING THE OIL COMPANIES ON THEIR EXCESSIVE PROFITS WHICH ONLY GO TO THE WELL PAMPAERED CEO'S WITH UNLIMITED PERKS AND MONEY WHICH THEY SOEND IN OTHER COUNTRIES WITH VACATION HOMES EVERYWHERE IN EUROPE
AND SPEN OUR DOLLARS ABROAD TOO.

If the religious leaders want to go to the press, its their business, it should not be because Obama made them to. The issue of church and state need to be seperated, and i think Obama has learnt his lessons that the media need not be part of that meeting

Vig June 10th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Hey "Vig" do you also have a prediction on who's going to win the superbowl? I'd like to make some money since you're such the predictor.

Geez, the guy meets with religious leaders in an effort to get people to understand that the democracts are also filled with religious people contrary to how the republicans try to paint us. Cut him some slack. How about we just ignore religion like in 2000 and 2004 and let the republicans get all of the religious votes.

For the life of me, I can't understand why Americans continue to ignore the whole premise of separation of church and state. Isn't that why our ancestors fled their homelands? And yet, there Obummer is, insisting that religion matters. Why should preachers, priests, ministers, and various other nefarious spiritual charlatans of organized religion have any say in who becomes our president or vice president? Hillary Clinton would never stoop so low. Jeez, the guy has no balls at all, does he? What a pantywaist.

Way to go Barack! People of faith need their voice heard too, just keep church and state separate. Just talk about the war, health care and jobs what we all need.

Vig,
You are so NEGATIVE I think you have low life.
He well rounded and briliant person not ignorant like you!!

You bloggers are a joke. You are saying this because all in attendance were Aro-American clergymen. Obama, don't leave no stone unturned. Don't take nothing for granted. Reach out to everyone.
Even to those jokers who have just blogged. Obama '08

Wake up, everybody.

BO knows politics. He knows he needs the religious right.

Change, my butt. Old-school politics is what BO is ALL about.

Stop blindly following him–or anyone. Ask questions–or are you afraid to? Are you afraid you'll be proven wrong? If not, you have nothing to lose–right?

Why a private meeting? Why not public.? Why did they not want to be identified. Some more promises he won't keep.

Just don't include Rev. Wright and Fr. Pflager.

Obama/Webb '08

Obama is smart! he run successful campaign without any debt, 18+ people voted for him but he never bragged about it and superdeligates swarmed to his side
.
I am sure he will win the general election.

I like this! I like how this went.....

i guess we need the votes ,but, i dont like mixing politics and religion.we've had enough of that already.

Aesop's Fables: "Please all and you will please none".
But you will look good.

I'm glad he's doing this. The Republicans don't have a monopoly on religion.

Also, to NYC Native, he has met with other religious faiths. He met with the Jewish lobby last week.

Vig,

I don't think that he tries to be everything to everybody. He certainly has clear stands on issues.

I think Obama is trying to show people that we have more common ground than we realize and that we need to recognize that our shared humanity is more important than our tribal allegiances.

barack obama youth for obama is with you all the way .

LISTEN PREZ!

PLEASE TALK TO THEM ABOUT THAT BEER VETO.

HILLARY FOR VP!! OBAMA/CLINTON !!
(UNITED WE WIN, DEVIDED WE LOOSE IT’S ALL UP TO YOU OBAMA)

OR

CLINTON DEMOCRATS FOR MCCAIN!!!

NYC Native: Who says he isn't? You judge his entirety based on one meeting?

Already being even more secretive. Can you say BUSH?!?

Good for him! I don't know why the Republicans think they have a lock on the religious voters. Jesus said that we would be judged by three things. How did you help the poor? How did you help the widow? How did you help the fatherless children? The Democrats are the party that looks after all of these.

The article said 30 religious leaders were to attend. The 3 who were named probably agreed to be named. 30 people offerers up a lot of religions in the US.

The article also said this is one of many meetings. I think this takes a page from his organizing background. Talk to the leaders and they will talk to their followers, because weather we like it or not, religion is HUGE in a lot of peoples lives.

But not mine.

A faith meeting with various denominations, races and religions. He is truly a man of his word in this case – unity. He is a breath of fresh air this country needs. I guess we needed someone who didn't have all that washington 'experience' to change this country. Thank you God for Obama.

Vig

Its called uniting. Something Rep nor Bush know nothing about.

We should all meet with leaders in faith building. Let us all pray for a better tomorrow and vote..... Obama 08

This is my take on Obama: tries to be everything to every faction. My prediction: if this guy gets elected he will be one of the most ineffective leaders, following in Bush's steps.

Reaching out in what way? Why? What about other faiths? What about the "nonfaith" community? If he wants to meet with religious representatives, he should meet with representatives of all.

Good. I like a person that understand God but I like Obama on issues like gas prices, against bush taxes cuts, pro choice, against the war in Irag. That is why he is getting my support.

I hope they don't turn around to ruin the next half of his presidential run. ...........

Talk with them but don't promise them anything.

Keep church and state separate!

>> as well as some who do not who wanted to remain unidentified.

Then tell us how they are if they don't want to be unidentified.