You have probably heard much about the so-called “infrastructure bill” over the past few weeks, culminating with its passage in the United States Senate just a couple of days ago. The bill now heads to the House of Representatives for a vote.
But did you know that the infrastructure bill isn’t just about highways, railroads, and broadband?
That’s right – tucked away in the bill are hidden provisions known as “SOGI language.” SOGI stands for “sexual orientation and gender identity.” The infrastructure bill, which just passed the Senate, proposes to elevate the SOGI groups to federally protected classes, even though those classes are poorly defined. CCL remains concerned that this hidden provision will threaten religious liberty in Maine and across America.
What this means is that Mainers who support things like traditional marriage and the rights of women and girls to have access to safe, single-sex facilities and programs, may be targeted and accused of discrimination for living according to their own beliefs.
These SOGI provisions stand in direct conflict with religious liberty and are among the most recent erosions of these rights in America.
When these provisions are debated at the national level, it may feel far off and beyond our control. But inaction is not the answer.
“And I heard the voice of the Lord, saying: Who shall I send? and who shall go for us? And I said: Lo, here am I, send me.” (Isaiah 6:8)
One of the keys to fixing these problems and protecting religious freedom is winning elections at the local level. CCL is here to help you do that!
We believe the time has come for everyday Mainers to stand up for our shared values. Do not let a “lack” of political experience discourage you: we need moms and dads, business leaders, pastors, teachers, and everyday concerned citizens to step up. Now, more than ever, we need community leaders in Maine to get involved and return the power to the people.
CCL recently completed the first two in a series of campaign schools (one in Auburn and one in Bangor), which are designed to equip anyone to learn what it takes to win elections. We are excited to share that we will soon announce details for the next CCL campaign school in October – to be held in the Augusta area.
Please prayerfully consider whether God is calling you to step out into your community and lead.
“Go therefore and I will be in thy mouth: and I will teach thee what though shalt speak.” (Exodus 4: 11)
If God is calling you, we implore you to answer the call. CCL will be here to provide you with the proper training and worldview education as you work towards serving your community.
Returning a voice to the people of Maine starts with you using your voice.
Click here if you would like to sign up for our next campaign school, and if you have a neighbor who you think would be a great Christian leader in Maine, please email our Policy Director, Mike McClellan, at policy@cclmaine.org.
One final note: We hear from many of the appreciation for first responders and all people who continued to work over the COVID era. Many of these same people are now being confronted with hard choices concerning masking and vaccinating. We ask you to keep them in your prayers.
Lord God, as our first responders and others who continue to work diligently to keep our world safe, functioning, and healthy, please provide stamina for their bodies and minds. Keep them going in tough times and allow them to see our gratefulness. Keep them alert and strong, and may they stay ready to serve with motivation and passion. Show them daily how important they are to our world and give them the energy they need to do their best. In Your precious name, I pray. Amen.
Together In Christ,
Carroll Conley
Executive Director, CCL
We are willing to serve your ministry by speaking in person or recording services for you. If you are interested in the League helping out with your pulpit needs, contact Carroll at carroll.conley@gmail.com