Reply #35: Gladly. My reaction would depend on the context, frequency and content

[PurityOfEssence]

If he went there because those were natural gathering places and he spoke about the things he generally speaks about (fairness, poverty, health care, etc.) I wouldn't have any problems at all. If he talks about the misuse of religion by the right wing, I wouldn't have a problem. If, on the other hand, he evokes faith as a justification for his policies and plays up his faith (as Obama does in an attempt to portray himself worthy because he's not a godless inferior) I'd be very displeased.

It's a fine line, but the line is basically this: when someone says or intimates "vote for me because I'm a believer", my mental solenoid snaps shut and I turn away. Not only has Edwards NOT done that, he's specifically and regularly stated that that's not to be mentioned.

When he casually says "bless you" to someone in a political Q & A session--as he has--this passes my sniff test and seems just like a personal and relaxed expression of welcoming approval, not an evocation of the big whoseywhatzit or an attempt to make points.

Both Obama and Clinton play it WAY too much.