Large Coalition of Religious Groups Urges Passage of Health Bill

February 25, 2010  |  The New York Times: Health

The letter says that while no reform bill will be perfect, “Turning back now could mean justice delayed for another generation and an unprecedented opportunity lost.” The letter does not specifically endorse the president’s proposal or the House or Senate bills. But one of the coalitions that signed the letter, the PICO National Network, which represents a thousand congregations across the country, has applauded the president’s plan, saying it would go further than the Senate plan to reduce out-of-pocket costs for low-income families.

Obama plan would curb health insurers on rate hikes

February 22, 2010  |  Los Angeles Times

Meantime, nine leading consumer, medical and patients' rights groups urged lawmakers to act quickly.

Stanislaus County rethinks indigent care plan

February 08, 2010  |  The Modesto Bee

Homero Mejia, lead organizer for Congregations Building Community in Stanislaus County, a group that supports health care reform, said the county disregarded the health care needs of vulnerable residents. "They know these people are not going to be able to pay those fees," he said. "They weren't acting in the best interest of those community members."

Wanted: Moral leadership for health reform

January 28, 2010  |  Washington Post, On Faith; Guest Voices

Scripture teaches us that a moral community does what is necessary to protect the lives of each member of society; it makes room at the table of plenty for everyone. It is long past time that we made room at the life-sustaining health care table of plenty for everyone of God's children.

Church Coalition Asks Moore to Back Healthcare Bill

January 27, 2010  |  KCUR Kansas

Dennis Moore met in a Kansas City, Kansas church with the group " Communities Creating Opportunity." Two hundred members of at least fifteen Wyandotte and Johnson County churches made a plea for congressional action on jobs and health care.

Fear not, Congress

January 25, 2010  |  Washington Post, On Faith; Guest Voices

We have the best opportunity in our lifetime to create a framework for bringing everyone into our great health care table of plenty - we cannot let fear derail this moment. We must not abandon the millions of Americans who stand so close to getting access to affordable health coverage. We must "be not afraid."

Confronting The Affordability Gap in Health Care Bills

January 19, 2010  |  National Public Radio

"What they decide could mean the difference between a family with a sick child paying $5,000 a year for health care or $1,800 a year," Gloria Cooper, of the San Diego Organizing Project, told the crowd, describing the difference between what might happen under the Senate bill, which is the higher number, and the House version.

Oakland clergy on Capitol Hill to press for affordable health care

January 19, 2010  |  San Francisco Chronicle

Earlier this month, according to a press release from the PICO National Network, over 750 elected officials, faith, labor, and nonprofit leaders across the country sent a letter to President Obama and Congress calling for stronger protections for low and moderate income Americans in the final health reform legislation.

Rally for affordable health care

January 16, 2010  |  KTVU-SF (FOX) - San Francisco

In the nation's capitol today, they rallied for affordable health care.

The Human Face of Health Care Affordability

January 14, 2010  |  The Huffington Post

This was a critical event because it brought grassroots representatives to the table to put a real face on the debate over how much people should have to pay for health insurance.

Healthcare reform must be within all our reach

January 13, 2010  |  The Hill

Far too many Americans will still find healthcare out of reach if we do not seize this opportunity to strengthen the health reform legislation by combining the best elements of both bills so that no one has to choose between their health and their home, their well-being and their financial security.

Faith community in East Bay rallies to help distressed homeowners

December 19, 2009  |  Contra Costa Times

As political pressure builds in Washington for the banking industry to do more to help struggling homeowners avoid foreclosure, the call in eastern Contra Costa County is coming from church-based advocacy groups - and it's getting louder.

Health clinic nears reality in Oakley

December 19, 2009  |  Contra Costa Times

The quest to provide more access for Oakley residents began four years ago with members from St. Anthony Catholic Church. Several members of the church's youth group, including Marquez and Flores, noticed that some parishioners lacked health care and began looking for ways to address the problem.

Report Demonstrates Need To Control Health Care Costs

December 03, 2009  |  New Jersey Today

"I don't want to have to bury any more parishioners who died before their time only because they could not afford to pay for health insurance," said Reverend Heyward Wiggins III, Pastor of Camden Bible Tabernacle and member of Camden Churches Organized for People. "It's time we really made health care accessible for everyone."

South Burlington clinic access advances

November 24, 2009  |  Burlington Free Press

Efforts to secure public transit for patients with orthopedic, pain management, physical therapy and cardiac rehab appointments in South Burlington advanced Monday. Planners agreed to pursue funding for a phone-in ride request system, extending bus service to clinics on Tilley Drive, said the Rev. Debbie Ingram, the executive director of Burlington-based nonprofit Vermont Interfaith Action.

Washington prayer vigil rallies Senate support for affordable heath-care reform

November 19, 2009  |  Episcopal Life Online

Shortly before Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid held a press conference Nov. 19 to celebrate the long-awaited health reform legislation unveiled Nov. 18, pastors and lay leaders from states with senators whose votes are seen as crucial to the outcome of reform gathered outside the Capitol Building to pray for continued progress on legislation to extend affordable coverage to families.

Hundreds in SF Show Support For Health Care Reform

November 08, 2009  |  CBS 5

Hundreds of San Franciscans made it very clear they wanted health care reform, and showed their support for the bill, which just passed through the House of Representatives.

Metro Group Prepares for Health Care Battle in U.S. Senate

November 08, 2009  |  NBC Kansas City

KANSAS CITY, Mo.- Health care reform supporters are celebrating Saturday night's victory in the U.S. House of Representatives, but now the planning begins to win another victory in the U.S. Senate. The Rev. Wallace Hartsfield, Sr., longtime Kansas City, Mo. minister, traveled to Washington with the organization, Communities Creating Opportunities.

Kirehe: Building and healing together as a community

November 01, 2009  |  New Times: Rwanda's First Daily

Tucked far away in a small hidden part of Kirehe District near the Burundi and Tanzania borders is a community of serious minded, hardworking people, who are more knowledgeable about the aims and importance of Vision 2020 Umurenge to Rwandans than their proud compatriots in urban Kigali. These are the people of Mumeya, a village found in Rwantonde, Gatore Sector. This is the story of how the Mumeya community decided to interpret Vision 2020 and their part in its fulfillment.

Keep the ball rolling

October 23, 2009  |  Time Argus

As a member of Vermont Interfaith Action, part of the PICO National Network, an alliance of 1,000 congregations nationwide, I have been actively involved in the national health care debate for more than half a year. My education has mainly come from the conversations I have had with friends, family members, fellow parishioners at Christ Church Episcopal in Montpelier, and fellow volunteer advocates from around the country.

LOCAL VIEW: Affordability protections key to health care reform

October 22, 2009  |  North County Times

In April 2008, Karen lost her brother, who died suddenly of a heart attack while caring for their diabetic mother and working full time as a paralegal. It wasn't until after his death that his children told Karen that their father had not taken his heart medication for more than a month because he couldn't afford it. The firm for which he was working didn't provide health care benefits, and he could not afford to buy private insurance and raise four kids.

B.R. minister joins others pushing for health care in D.C.

October 21, 2009  |  Baton Rouge Advocate

WASHINGTON - A Baton Rouge minister was in Washington on Tuesday as part of a national campaign calling for health-care aid to low- and middle-income families.

Birmingham pastor lobbies for health care

October 21, 2009  |  Birmingham Daily News

The pastor of Sixth Avenue Baptist Church in Birmingham on Tuesday joined religious and labor leaders from around the country lobbying Congress to make health care affordable for all.

Editorial: The Moral Mandate for Affordable Health Care for All

October 21, 2009  |  Washington Post On Faith Blog

As a hospital chaplain, I'm heartened to see affordability get the attention it deserves. Over the years I have met countless families who struggle and falter under the weight of medical bills and health insurance costs that increase far faster than their income.

Poll: 1 in 4 Adults Say Family Member Lost Health Coverage

October 21, 2009  |  The Christian Post

Faith leaders from across the country gathered Tuesday to tell lawmakers working on health care reform bills that the current Senate version is unacceptable. Clergy leaders noted that in some states the current reform bill would force low-income families to pay twice as much as under other legislations. And in calling for premiums and out-of-pocket costs, the bill would make health care unaffordable for these families.

'Repent' over health care lapses, pastors say

October 20, 2009  |  Religion News Service

Organizers, who include PICO National Network, Faithful Reform in Health Care, Interfaith Worker Justice, Catholics United and the African Methodist Episcopal Church, said religious leaders from a number of key political states, including Maine, North Dakota, andFlorida, attended events dedicated to health care reform.

Colorado Faith Leaders: Make Health Coverage More Affordable

October 20, 2009  |  Denver Daily News

Local faith leaders are joining faith leaders from around the country in Washington today to proclaim the "moral case" for improving health reform legislation currently being considered by Congress.

Health Care Day of Action overtakes Congress

October 20, 2009  |  CBS News

Faith groups like PICO National Network and Faithful Reform in Health Care joined in the day of action with rallies, religious services and other events in an effort to put particular emphasis on making coverage more affordable for lower-income families.

Health care decision hinges on effect on small businesses, Sen. Mary Landrieu says

October 20, 2009  |  Times Picayune

Lenetra Jefferson and Paula Arceneaux, both leaders of New Orleans faith-based groups supporting health care overhaul, said people showing up at town hall meetings to oppose President Barack Obama's proposals probably haven't experienced trying to get health bills paid by reluctant insurance carriers or faced the loss of coverage because of a pre-existing condition or after developing an illness -- actions barred under the reform bills.

On Capitol Hill, religious leaders take stand for working families

October 20, 2009  |  Episcopal News Service

Clergy and faith leaders from throughout the United States gathered on Capitol Hill Oct. 20 to pray and proclaim the moral case for health-care reform legislation that would make coverage affordable to working-class and low-income families.

La. gives ‘testimonies’for healthcare reform

October 12, 2009  |  The Louisiana Weekly

Household of Faith Family Worship Church in New Orleans east holds services regularly, but Wednesday evening, the congregation heard a different type of testimony. The video and photo exhibit "Bearing Witness: A Pilgrimage for Health Reform" made its stop in the Crescent City, to connect faces to the many voices of families and individuals calling for reform that includes adequate and affordable health care for all citizens

Praying for politics

September 28, 2009  |  The Hill

"People think prayer and politics don't go together, but these are our lives," said Everson, the executive director at Congregations for Community Action in her hometown. She helped coordinate a healthcare prayer vigil in August that ended in a visit to Rep. Bill Posey's (R-Fla.) office. "Others might go out and protest or throw things, but we're going to pray. This is what we know how to do."

Growth seen in kid-insurance programs

September 17, 2009  |  Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

Television spots urging "people of faith" to call their members of Congress in support of health-care legislation began airing Tuesday in six states, including Arkansas.

Video: CBS coverage of Capitol Hill Rally for Affordability

September 17, 2009  |  CBS News

CBS's Joel Roberts reports from a rally for affordable healthcare on Capitol Hill featuring Rev. Dr. George Cummings, a pastor and PICO National Network leader from Oakland, CA.

Video: Oakland pastor at Capitol Hill Rally for Affordability

September 17, 2009  |  KTVU

On September 16, faith leaders from PICO - together with Community Catalyst - flooded Capitol Hill with lobby visits, phone calls and a rally for healthcare reform.

Video: Christian Broadcasting Network covers PICO's Affordability Rally on Capitol Hill

September 16, 2009  |  Christian Broadcasting Network

Watch video from the Christian Broadcasting Network's coverage of PICO and Community Catalyst's Capitol Hill Rally for Health Care Affordability.

Vt. Interfaith Action hosting health care call-in

September 15, 2009  |  Burlington Free Press

Clergy from Vermont Interfaith Ac­tion are urging a call-in to­day to Vermont’s congres­sional delegation in support of health care reform.

Health care forum sheds ‘light’ on reform debate

September 08, 2009  |  Florida Catholic

Unlike many health care meetings taking place across the nation, the tone of the "Interfaith Prayer and Action on Healthcare Reform" meeting held Aug. 20, was purposefully prayerful, nonpolitical and meant to bring a theological and personal focus to the health care debate.

CNN video: Faces on the need for reform

September 03, 2009  |  CNN

Watch this CNN segment featuring real life stories from PICO leaders from FOCUS in Orlando, FL about the difficulties of getting good health care and the need for reform this year.

Faithful cite moral call for health reform in Aurora

August 31, 2009  |  Denver Post

The health-care-reform issue moved from the town halls to the church steeple Sunday, as Aurora Catholics urged passage as a "moral imperative."

'We should seek justice for our brothers and sisters'

August 28, 2009  |  The Tidings - Los Angeles,CA

Dolores Mission parishioners joined by those from other churches endured the muggy Sunday afternoon weather Aug. 23 to march nearly two miles from their church in Boyle Heights to the downtown Los Angeles office of Congresswoman Lucille Roybal Allard on Temple Street.

Hundreds pack health care forum featuring Rep. Susan Davis

August 27, 2009  |  SDNN - San Diego,CA

The San Diego Organizing Project doesn’t want the health care debate to be about broad ideological conflict or even dollars and cents. They want it to be about flesh and blood. They had uninsured people line up and have their picture taken. They called the drive the “pictures of health care”.

Pelosi holds town hall with faith leaders

August 21, 2009  |  KGO-TV - San Francisco,CA,USA

These ministers, rabbis and other clergy were brought together by the San Francisco Interfaith Council and the San Francisco Organizing Project

Group to hold nationwide conference call on health care

August 20, 2009  |  The Press-Enterprise

Inland religious congregations will participate in a nationwide conference call on health care Wednesday that will include President Barack Obama.

Obama holds one BIG conference call on health care

August 20, 2009  |  Florida Catholic

It was an event of scriptural dimensions. At 5 p.m. EDT Aug. 19, what organizers estimated at 140,000 people of faith all across the country responded to a call to advocate for health care reform.

Obama phones in for health reform chat

August 20, 2009  |  Stockton Record - Stockton,CA

In a hot upstairs classroom-turned-office at Stockton's large Central United Methodist Church on Wednesday afternoon, 10 people gathered around a table, intently focusing on a small speakerphone as people from throughout the country talked about the need for health care reform.

Optimism about change spurs participants' involvement in health event

August 20, 2009  |  Catholic News Service

Two participants in a nationwide teleconference organized by religious organizations that are supporting health care reform said they were optimistic that legislation will pass this year and that they don't believe government funding of abortion will be a part of the bill.

Pelosi holds town hall with faith leaders

August 20, 2009  |  KGO-TV - San Francisco,CA

A civilized meeting on health care reform was held in San Francisco on Thursday. The civilized demeanor hasn't always been the case around the country. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-California, told a small crowd that this is the opportunity of a century and there is no backing down.

Obama Casts Health Effort in Moral Terms

August 19, 2009  |  New York Times

President Obama cast his efforts to overhaul America’s health care system in moral terms in a conference call with liberal religious organizations late Wednesday afternoon, saying “these struggles always boil down to a contest between hope and fear.”

Catholic advocates get specific on health-care reform

August 17, 2009  |  Catholic Courier - Rochester,NY

The only thing certain about proposals for health-care reform is that there are a lot of them. Over the weekend, officials in President Barack Obama's administration added another reform idea, signaling that they might be willing to consider different reform that includes insurance cooperatives rather than the public-insurance plan on which the administration has thus far insisted.

Health care conference call links president with public

August 17, 2009  |  Florida Catholic

Catholic Floridians who belong to interfaith groups advocating comprehensive health care for everyone plan to participate in a national conference call and audio webcast with President Barack Obama this week.

It's Not Over Until You've Tried This, Mr. President

August 17, 2009  |  Huffington Post

It seems like a grim moment in the struggle to reform health insurance. The lights are growing dim. As health insurance industry stock prices rise, the chance to win this debate for universal coverage and a public option is on life support.

Annette Clifford: Health care system good for some, not for all

August 14, 2009  |  Florida Today

Maybe we need to take this health care reform mess to the top. That's what they did at Ascension Catholic Church in Melbourne on Tuesday at a meeting on changes to the nation's health care delivery system being proposed in Congress.

Faith leaders appeal for health reform

August 12, 2009  |  Stockton Record - Stockton,CA

National health care reform took a prayerful turn Tuesday in downtown Stockton. "No more delays. Clear away the rocks and stones of debate," prayed John Harris, an elder at Stockton's White Rose Church of God in Christ. "We need adequate and affordable health care for all."

Faith-based groups show reform support

August 12, 2009  |  The Coloradoan - Fort Collins,CO

Faith-based proponents of health-care reform kicked off a nationwide effort in Fort Collins on Tuesday with a rally at Library Park. Metro Organizations for People, or MOP, the Denver branch of the PICO National Network, a community of faith-based organizations, led a rally of about 65 people in Library Park before heading to Rep. Betsy Markey's office to plead for immediate health-care reform.

Healthcare reform supporters, opponents gather in Hollywood

August 12, 2009  |  L.A. Times

Clergy and grass-roots faith leaders led a prayer vigil today in Hollywood as part of a national effort to press Congress to reform the healthcare insurance system.

Interfaith Action rally includes spirited health care discussion

August 12, 2009  |  Rochester Democrat and Chronicle - Rochester,NY

Calls for national health care reform came during two unrelated events Tuesday in Rochester. In the morning, prayers from members of Interfaith Action for reform became a spirited discussion outside the Kenneth B. Keating Federal Building on State Street.

Interfaith Action rally includes spirited health care discussion

August 12, 2009  |  RocNow - Rochester,NY

Calls for national health care reform came during two unrelated events Tuesday in Rochester. In the morning, prayers from members of Interfaith Action for reform became a spirited discussion outside the Kenneth B. Keating Federal Building on State Street.

Religious groups consider merits, flaws of U.S. health care reform proposals

August 12, 2009  |  Catholic News Agency

Responding to some Americans’ displays of vocal opposition to health care legislation, a coalition of religious leaders has launched a national campaign for health care reform, characterizing the matter as a “fundamental religious issue.” However, the Catholic Medical Association severely criticizes the proposal.

The Great Health Reform Debate arrives in the Bay Area

August 12, 2009  |  San Jose/ Valley-Mercury News

The passionate debate on health care reform rolled into the Bay Area this week, at times mirroring the public showdowns roiling town halls across the country. While Democratic Congresswomen Zoe Lofgren ran into a hostile crowd on Monday night at a community meeting in Almaden Valley, she found friendlier faces outside her San Jose office on Tuesday, urging her not to waver from her support of the controversial health care effort embroiling the nation.

US religious groups launch campaign for health care reform

August 12, 2009  |  ChristianToday

Religious groups in the US pushing for health care reform have launched a national campaign to counteract the very vocal opposition to President Obama’s proposals to revamp the country’s health care system.

Valley residents pray in Modesto for health-care reform

August 12, 2009  |  The Modesto Bee

About 40 people gathered at Tenth Street Plaza on Tuesday morning to pray for a national health care system. They also prayed for Rep. Dennis Cardoza, D-Merced, and others in Congress faced with the task of making health insurance affordable for all. The event, sponsored by Congregations Building Community in Modesto, drew people such as Fabiola Garcia, who lost her health insurance five years ago when she resigned from her job as a credit union loan officer when her daughter, Veronica Hall, was born prematurely, weighing 14.9 ounces.

Faith Leaders Rally for Healthcare Reform

August 11, 2009  |  The Northern Coloradoan

Clergy and faith leaders say this is their hour of need, the eleventh hour as they called it, telling members of congress, specifically Betsy Markey, that now is the time to stand up for families and the presidents health care bill.

Faith groups launch campaign in favor of health care reform

August 11, 2009  |  CNN

Religious groups in favor of health care reform have launched a national campaign to offset the loud opposition to President Obama's plan to overhaul the nation's health care system, organizers announced.

Faith leaders join health push

August 11, 2009  |  The Tennessean

Faith leaders from around the country launched a push Monday to portray health-care reform as a moral imperative. Many are featured in an ad that began running Monday on CNN, MSNBC and local Washington, D.C., channels.

Faith-based group urges congressional leaders to reform health care

August 11, 2009  |  The Coloradoan

Faith-based proponents of health care took to the streets today to get the attention of more than 100 congressional representatives around the United States, including Rep. Betsy Markey.

Health care town hall draws large crowd

August 11, 2009  |  North County Times

The debate over various prescriptions for health care reform came to North County Tuesday, with Rep. Brian Bilbray hosting an occasionally raucous town hall meeting in Rancho Bernardo that was followed by a group of clergy in Vista calling for an end to the often-vitriolic rhetoric attached to the issue.

Health insurance debate on tap throughout state

August 11, 2009  |  Boston Herald - Boston,MA

As President Obama heads to New Hampshire this afternoon to push for national health insurance reform, Bay State advocates are meeting today with staff at seven Congressional offices to show their support for a health care overhaul.

Health reform candlelight vigil tonight

August 11, 2009  |  Forum of Fargo-Moorhead

FARGO – Proponents of health-care reform will hold a candlelight vigil tonight to “mark the human cost of delaying reforms.”

Interfaith Action holds prayer rally in support of health care reform

August 11, 2009  |  RocNow - Rochester,NY

Affordable health care was called a civil right and an act of justice this morning as members of Interfaith Action of Rochester held a prayer gathering at the Kenneth B. Keating Federal Building on State Street.

Progressive Religious Groups Line Up Behind Obama On Health Care

August 11, 2009  |  NPR

Just hours after the Obama administration launched a website today to battle what it has called "wild rumors" about its health care initiative, a coalition of progressive religious leaders entered the increasingly bitter national argument over the overhaul being debated in Washington.

Rally planned on health care

August 11, 2009  |  Cherry Hill Courier Post - Cherry Hill,NJ

Clergy and faith leaders from Camden Churches Organized for People will rally today at 3 p.m. outside the office of Sen. Frank Lautenberg, D-N.J., at One Port Center in Camden to pressure Congress to pass comprehensive health care legislation this year.

Religious Groups Take a Stand on Health Care Debate

August 11, 2009  |  San Diego News Network

Religious Americans ready for health care reform are turning up the pressure on lawmakers Tuesday with nationwide rallies asking for change by the end of 2009.

Religious Progressives Flex New Muscle in Pushing Healthcare

August 11, 2009  |  U.S. News & World Report

With a new television ad out today and a national conference call featuring President Obama scheduled for next week, religious progressives advocating universal healthcare coverage are flexing their organizing muscle in a way not seen since the movement was jolted into action by the 2004 election.

Religious groups to rally for health care in Camden

August 11, 2009  |  Philadelphia Inquirer - Philadelphia,PA

A group of health-care activists plans to gather this afternoon outside Democratic Sen. Frank Lautenberg's Camden office. They're not going to hoist signs or yell slogans. Instead, they'll likely hold hands, bow their heads, and pray.

Religious umbrella group to lobby Congress for health care reform

August 11, 2009  |  Contra Costa Times - Walnut Creek,CA

rea members of a national network of faith-based community organizations on Tuesday vowed to push congressional delegation members on health-care reform. Members of the Inland Congregations for Change called health care for all Americans "a basic right" that needs to be incorporated in comprehensive legislation this fall.

Faith Community Joins Health Care Debate

August 10, 2009  |  The National Journal

Leaders of religious communities across the country are no longer content leaving health care reform to politicians. Through a call-in event with President Obama, television advertisements, prayer rallies, meetings with members of Congress and sermons, a coalition of faith-based organizations hopes to show that health care reform is a "profoundly moral issue," said Katie Paris, spokeswoman for the group.

Faith Groups to Help Obama on Health Care

August 10, 2009  |  CBS News

Having let his push for comprehensive health care refom become bogged down by confusion over the details of his plan, President Obama this month is turning to the religious community to rally support for the fundamental idea of expanding health care accessibility.

Faith Leaders Campaign for Health Care Reform, Release TV Ad

August 10, 2009  |  beliefnet

A coalition of Christian, Jewish and Muslim leaders has launched a national campaign for health care reform, calling it a "fundamental religious issue," in hopes of countering the vocal opposition exhibited at recent town hall meetings.

Faith Leaders Taking on Health Care

August 10, 2009  |  WLTX-Columbia, SC

Faith leaders from around the country launched a push Monday to portray health care reform as a moral imperative. "This is no way for the most blessed country in the world to treat its most vulnerable citizens," said the Rev. John Hay, pastor of the West Morris Street Free Methodist Church in Indianapolis, Ind. "This is as much a crisis of faith as it is a crisis of health care. We just believe there is a better way for us to meet in the middle on some common ground to make sure everyone can access and afford health care."

Faith groups begin media blitz for health-care reform

August 10, 2009  |  Associated Baptist Press

President Obama will participate in a national call-in and audio webcast on health reform with religious leaders Aug. 19. Faith leaders made the announcement Aug. 10 in a conference call with reporters. It is one of several initiatives being rolled out by a coalition of faith-based groups trying to frame health care as a moral issue.

Health care ad features Indy pastor

August 10, 2009  |  Indianapolis Star

An Indianapolis evangelical leader is part of an effort launched by religious leaders today to push for health care reform as a moral imperative. "This is no way for the most blessed country in the world to treat its most vulnerable citizens," said the Rev. John Hay Jr., former senior pastor of West Morris Street Free Methodist Church. "This is as much a crisis of faith as it is a crisis of health care. We just believe there is a better way for us to meet in the middle on some common ground to make sure everyone can access and afford health care."

Health reform advocates fight back

August 10, 2009  |  Boston Globe

President Obama's allies are ramping up their efforts for healthcare overhaul as the battle moves full bore back into local congressional districts and out of Washington. Opponents of the healthcare bills being pushed by congressional Democrats have been raging at town hall meetings held by members of Congress, protests organized in part by conservative and business groups and cheered on by Republicans.

LOCAL COPE REP TOUTS HEALTH CARE

August 10, 2009  |  The Daily Iberian

At the end of July, a local teacher got on a plane for the first time in 28 years to fly to Washington and advocate for health care reform.

Obama Taps Into Religious Network for Health Care

August 10, 2009  |  Roll Call

President Barack Obama plans to tap into a national religious network to advance his health care agenda with a telephone appearance on Aug. 19. A coalition of interfaith religious groups backing health care reform has launched a 40-day campaign targeting 100 Members of Congress with a variety of local faith-based events and landed Obama as the headliner for a telephone call-in event next week.

Religious Groups Plan 40-Day Campaign to Promote Health-Care Overhaul

August 10, 2009  |  The Chronicle of Philanthropy

A coalition of religious organizations announced today it is sponsoring a 40-day campaign to convince Congress and the public that providing affordable health insurance to all Americans is a moral imperative.

Religious take health reform to web and pulpit

August 10, 2009  |  National Catholic Reporter

President Barack Obama will be participating in a national call-in and webcast with faith leaders next Wednesday night, August 19. The call is being sponsored by a network of faith-based groups including Catholics in Alliance for the Common Good, Faith in Public Life, Sojourners, the National Council of Churches, and the Jewish Council for Public Affairs.

Faithful push for action on health-care reform

August 08, 2009  |  The Columbus Dispatch

God wouldn't deny anyone a doctor, affordable medicine or any other medical needs, religious leaders are preaching in the midst of a nationwide debate about health-care reform. Faith groups are lobbying Congress and working to gain support among laypeople for a health-care system that offers affordable coverage to all, though they largely leave the specifics of how that would happen to the legislators.

Religious Health Care Supporters Launching Campaign

August 07, 2009  |  The Washington Post

In the latest escalation of health care battle, faith leaders supporting the health care reform announced Friday morning that they're launching a major push that will include a TV ad campaign, nationwide prayer events and a "health care sermon weekend," rallies and call-ins to congress.

300 gather to pray for affordable health care

August 04, 2009  |  Orange County Register

Vigil in Garden Grove addresses reform efforts.

Going into the August Recess, Health Reform is an Act of Faith

August 04, 2009  |  ABC News

Interfaith discussion on health reform gives timeliness top priority

August 04, 2009  |  The Catholic Review

The Rev. Drew Nettinga opened a prayer breakfast July 28 at the U.S. Capitol with a reminder to Congress that he and other people of faith will be vigilant and persistent on the issue of health care reform.

Christians Weigh In On Health Care Reform

August 03, 2009  |  Huffington Post - New York,NY

Huffington Post blogger Rob Warmowski asked an important question about health care reform last week: Where are the Christians in this debate?

Fair healthcare cost focus of prayer vigil

August 03, 2009  |  United Press International - USA

U.S. Rep. Loretta Sanchez, D-Calif., says measures under consideration in the Congress do not go far enough to achieve universal healthcare.

Economy threatens health insurance coverage for California children

August 01, 2009  |  eMaxHealth - Hickory,NC

Up to 500 thousand children in California could lose their health insurance money because of California's $24 billion shortfall, including a $1.4 billion cut to Medi-Cal, the state's version of Medicaid.

The faith factor

August 01, 2009  |  Washington Times

Look for the signs emblazoned "No recess for reform" and lots of "amens" Tuesday on Capitol Hill.

Residents discuss health care at forum

July 31, 2009  |  The Desert Sun - Palm Springs,CA

The national debate over health care made its way to Cathedral City this week, as Coachella Valley families discussed their experiences and medical needs with a lawmaker's representative.

Pulling Together on Health Care

July 25, 2009  |  Washington Post

Some community organizations and national faith groups are joining forces and setting aside differences to promote congressional action on what they consider a moral imperative.

Anti-tax protesters rally outside Eshoo's office

July 20, 2009  |  Mountain View Voice - Mountain View,CA

Carrying American flags, picket signs and at times bugling patriotic songs, members of the anti-tax group called the "Tea Party Patriots" picketed outside U.S. Congresswoman Anna Eshoo's Palo Alto office on Friday as part of a nationwide campaign against health care reform.

Protesters rally outside office of Anna Eshoo

July 20, 2009  |  Palo Alto Weekly News

Carrying American flags, picket signs and at times bugling patriotic songs, members of the grassroots group the Tea Party Patriots picketed outside U.S. Congresswoman Anna Eshoo's office Friday as part of a nationwide campaign against health care reform.

Faith group to hold meeting on health care, immigration

July 17, 2009  |  Palo Alto Daily News

More than 400 people are expected to gather today to urge local elected officials to work toward lowering health care costs and achieving immigration reform.

Faith groups take up immigration, health issues

July 17, 2009  |  Palo Alto Weekly

Yvette Jimenez-Mota, 17, an American citizen and the daughter of undocumented immigrant parents, says she understands that the United States must protect its borders. "I do agree about border security and people committing crimes and they shouldn't be here," she said.

Dent shows he cares about constituents

July 15, 2009  |  Allentown-The Morning Times

On behalf of Congregations United for Neighborhood Action, I would like to thank U.S. Rep. Charles Dent for meeting on July 6 with 30 people who gathered at Zion's Liberty Bell Church to discuss comprehensive health care reform.

Faith Groups Engage on Reform

July 08, 2009  |  The Washington Post

Members of Jewish, Muslim and Christian denominations gathered yesterday for a "Religious Leaders Health Care Summit" on Capitol Hill hosted by the Religious Action Center for Reform Judaism, the United Methodist General Board of Church and Society, The National Coalition on Health Care and Families USA.

Religious Leaders Voice Support of Health Overhaul

July 06, 2009  |  Congressional Quarterly

The health care debate extended to Christian radio stations in several key states during the July Fourth congressional recess, as a coalition of community organizing networks and national religious advocacy groups released ads urging senators to support health care overhaul.

Make care available to those in need

July 05, 2009  |  Camden Courier-Post

This month, as Congress releases preliminary versions of health care reform legislation, families around the country are watching anxiously hoping that reform actually translates into better, more affordable and accessible coverage.

Health care for all push

July 03, 2009  |  Denver Daily News

Longmont resident Ira Chernus will soon need to raise $12,000 per year to cover the cost of prescription drugs needed to stabilize the chronic medical conditions experienced by his two young adult children.

Bennet engages religious leaders in health-care debate

July 03, 2009  |  The Colorado Independent

As members of Congress return to their states for the July Fourth recess, national health care reform, one of the thorniest of the thorny legislative initiatives lawmakers are grappling with this term, brought U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet to a Thursday night discussion hosted by Rev. Bill Calhoun at Montview Boulevard Presbyterian Church in Denver.

Faithful pitch in on health care

July 03, 2009  |  The Denver Post

A national coalition of liberal faith groups is pushing for "affordable health care for all families" through a radio ad campaign this week in Colorado and four other states.

Ad Update: Religious Groups Back Reform, Unions Target Senators' Tax Plans

July 02, 2009  |  Medical News Today

"Labor unions are showing their increasing displeasure over [health reform] financing proposals that target their healthcare benefits by launching attack ads against key lawmakers, causing the Senate's leading advocate of taxing such benefits to seek an end to one especially aggressive campaign," Congress Daily reports.

Bennet Talking Health Reform At Church

July 02, 2009  |  Associated Press

Sen. Michael Bennet is headed to a Presbyterian church in Denver to talk about health care reform with a pastor pushing for change.

Clergy now pushing for health care reform bill

July 02, 2009  |  The Herald-Sun, Durham North Carolina

Pastors are trying to get the word out about the need for affordable health care. Clergy in five states are taking to the radio airwaves now through Saturday in a plea to their senators to pass health care reform.

Ad Update: Religious Groups Back Reform, Unions Target Senators' Tax Plans

July 01, 2009  |  Kaiser Health News

"Labor unions are showing their increasing displeasure over [health reform] financing proposals that target their healthcare benefits by launching attack ads against key lawmakers, causing the Senate's leading advocate of taxing such benefits to seek an end to one especially aggressive campaign," Congress Daily reports.

HEALTH REFORM: Faith Based Groups: "America Can Do Better"

July 01, 2009  |  New America Foundation-The New Health Dialogue Blog

Industry groups may be holding their ad fireworks until after the Fourth of July, but a coalition of a faith-based groups will take to the airwaves this Independence Day weekend with ads presenting health care reform as a moral and ethical imperative.

Preaching for health reform

July 01, 2009  |  Arkansas Times

Church leaders, including Episcopal deacon Joyce Hardy of Little Rock, will speak up for health care reform in ads placed on Christian and mainstream radio stations over the Independence Day congressional recess.

Stockton crowd calls for health reform

July 01, 2009  |  Stockton Record

They came to ensure their voices are heard, their words are read, their message is clear: America's health care system is in crisis. On that point, they could all agree.

Wal-Mart, union back health item In letter to Obama, they say employers should provide workers coverage

July 01, 2009  |  Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

Meanwhile, an array of interest groups are broadcasting commercials aimed at affecting the debate. In Arkansas, a coalition of religious leaders is running a round of radio spots calling for senators to support legislation "that makes quality health-care choices affordable for all families."

A Faith-Based Push For Health Care

June 30, 2009  |  The Atlantic

A coalition of progressively minded faith-based groups is waging a campaign to support health care reform (which launched in May), and it's put out a series of new ads that will air on Christian radio today through July 4, targeting senators in Arkansas, Colorado, Louisiana, Nebraska, and North Carolina--states belonging loosely to the Bible belt whose moderate senators often cast swing votes in the upper chamber--as they return home for Congress's July 4 recess.

Denver pastor pushes health reform

June 30, 2009  |  Fox Channel 31-Denver, CO

A Denver pastor is lobbying for health care reforms and asking Congress to expand access to health care.

Faith groups targeting N.C. senators

June 30, 2009  |  The News & Observer-Raleigh. NC

Faith-based organizations are targeting U.S. Sens. Kay Hagan and Richard Burr during the Fourth of July weekend.

Faith leaders use radio ad campaign to urge health care reform

June 30, 2009  |  Episcopal News Service

The Ven. Joyce Hardy, archdeacon of the Episcopal Diocese of Arkansas and member of the Episcopal Church's Executive Council, has joined other faith leaders in launching a local radio ad campaign in support of the more than 50 million Americans who cannot afford adequate health care.

For affordable health care

June 30, 2009  |  The Raleigh News & Observer

Faith-based organizations are targeting U.S. Sens. Kay Hagan and Richard Burr during the Fourth of July weekend.

Jesus and Health Care

June 30, 2009  |  CBN

Liberal pastors push healthcare overhaul

June 30, 2009  |  The Boston Globe

With members of Congress back home this week for the July Fourth recess, left-leaning religious groups today announced a series of radio ads promoting the moral argument for a healthcare overhaul.

New Ads Use Book of Isaiah and Local Pastors to Sell Healthcare Reform

June 30, 2009  |  U.S. News & World Report

A week after a left-leaning faith group enlisted a Franciscan sister to sell the climate bill on the Indiana radio waves, another progressive faith outfit is using the Bible's Book of Isaiah to sell healthcare reform in other red states.

Pastors push affordable health care

June 30, 2009  |  Presbyterian news Service

More than 600 pastors from across the country — including a score of Presbyterians — have launched a radio advertising campaign in five key states to advocate for affordable health care for all U.S. families.

Pastors push healthcare overhaul

June 30, 2009  |  Boston Globe

With members of Congress back home this week for the July Fourth recess, left-leaning religious groups today announced a series of radio ads promoting the moral argument for a healthcare overhaul.

Prophet Isaiah Weighs in for Health Care Reform

June 30, 2009  |  Beliefnet

In 1993, religious groups were an insignificant part of the health care reform debate. This time groups like the Family Research Council are weighing in hard against, while progressive religious folks are working hard to generate grassroots support for health care reform.

Religious Groups' Radio Ads Back Health Overhaul

June 30, 2009  |  AP

Liberal-leaning religious groups are launching radio ads in five states this week in which local pastors urge senators to back efforts to overhaul the nation's health care system.

U.S. faith groups push for healthcare reform

June 30, 2009  |  Reuters

A coalition of progressive U.S. faith groups and pastors has launched a push for affordable health care reform, an effort they say is rooted in a "scriptural call to act."

Health care reform rally set for Tuesday

June 26, 2009  |  The Daily Item of Lynn - Boston,MA

LYNN - Grassroots community organizations in Lynn plan to rally for health care reform Tuesday hoping to spotlight health insurance companies that make huge profits while fighting against change.

Health care reform rally set for Tuesday

June 25, 2009  |  The Daily Item

Grassroots community organizations in Lynn plan to rally for health care reform Tuesday hoping to spotlight health insurance companies that make huge profits while fighting against change.

The Rev. Jerry Brown: Affordability standard important to any health care plan

June 10, 2009  |  Contra Costa Times

I'M WRITING TO you about health care reform on behalf of CCISCO-Contra Costa Interfaith Supporting Community Organization. Members of our congregations frequently talk with us about their struggles to afford health care coverage and we feel that it is important to have their voices included in this debate.

A million California children could lose health care

June 04, 2009  |  San Diego News Network

Leaders of San Diego Organizing Project, Family Health Centers of San Diego and local churches said if Schwarzenegger's Plan B proposal was approved, nearly one million children could lose health care coverage.

Critics: Children will bear brunt of state budget cuts

June 04, 2009  |  San Diego Union Tribune

"More children than can fit into Qualcomm Stadium are about to lose their health coverage," said Gloria Cooper of Antioch Church of God and Christ said outside the Family Health Centers of San Diego, North Park Pediatric Clinic.

Opinion: Reform must address costs

June 04, 2009  |  Baton Rouge Advocate

In radio ads airing this week here in Louisiana and across Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Missouri and Nebraska — states where members of Congress will likely determine the fate of health-care reform — pastors are reminding our elected officials that making health care affordable is a profound moral issue because every human life is sacred.

Faith-based groups push for health-care reform

May 28, 2009  |  Associated Baptist Press

Ads airing on Christian and mainstream radio stations in several states are attempting to frame health care as a moral issue.

Dems, GOP to address health care

May 26, 2009  |  Politico

And representing a new voice in the debate, a coalition of progressive faith groups is running a series of radio spots in key congressional districts that feature local pastors talking about the need for a health care fix.

News ads ramp up battle on health reform

May 25, 2009  |  Washington Times

Interest groups are using Congress' Memorial Day recess to step up their role in the debate over health care reform with new television ads and media campaigns in several states.

Clergy mobilize for stronger faith-based voice in health care debate

May 23, 2009  |  Georgia Bulletin

Catholic and Protestant clergy are taking to the radio airwaves and to their pulpits in an effort to bring a stronger faith-based voice to the ongoing discussions in Congress on health care reform.

Local minister part of radio campaign

May 23, 2009  |  Baton Rouge Advocate

The debate over health-care reform is taking on a spiritual tone this weekend with an interfaith radio campaign in several states, including Louisiana.

Senators: Odds good for health-care accord

May 23, 2009  |  Arkansas Democrat Gazette

In addition, a coalition of religious leaders from seven states, including Arkansas, kicked off a radio advertising campaign stressing the need to make health care affordable and accessible to all Americans.

Christian ads urge health care reform

May 22, 2009  |  Fort Wayne Journal Gazette

A faith-based Christian radio ad campaign launching today in seven so-called swing states, including Indiana, is advocating health care changes on moral grounds.

Christian radio ads pushing universal healthcare harnesses local faith-based influence

May 22, 2009  |  U.S. News & World Report

A coalition of liberal faith groups is up with a new Christian radio ad today promoting universal healthcare coverage.

Clergy advocate health reform

May 22, 2009  |  WorldMag.com Blog

Obama is urging comprehensive health care reform by the end of the year, and a national network of clergy is doing the same. The group is starting a nationwide campaign to advocate for health care reform, buying radio ads featuring local clergy and airing them in Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Missouri and Nebraska.

Faith-based campaign

May 22, 2009  |  Kaiser Network Capitol Hill Watch

Faith-based groups Faithful America and Cover All Families have launched a campaign on Christian radio stations advocating for health care reform, the Wall Street Journal's "Washington Wire" reports.

Moral reasons for health care reform

May 22, 2009  |  National Catholic Reporter

The radio ads, which can be found here, will be playing on Christian and mainstream radio station in swing districts. Radio listeners in Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Missouri and Nebraska will soon hear that "every person, created in the image of God, is of limitless value."

Pastors launch national campaign for health care reform

May 22, 2009  |  Christian Post

Local pastors from around the country launched a national campaign Thursday to pressure Congress into quickly finding a way to make health care affordable for every American family.

Pastors push for health care reform

May 22, 2009  |  Tikkun

The Religious Left is alive and kicking! The latest evidence? A group of pastors and priests have launched a national radio ad campaign calling on the government to ensure affordable health care for all.

Advocating for Health Care: On the Air and On the Ground

May 21, 2009  |  Faith in Public Life Blog

Ads running on Christian radio feature local clergy in key states--Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Missouri and Nebraska-- complement hundreds of events in local congregations across the country, including public meetings with Members of Congress, and other local and national lobbying efforts.

Christian Groups launch Ad Campaign Pushing Health Reform

May 21, 2009  |  Washington Post

A coalition of Christian groups are launching a radio ad campaign in southern and Midwestern states calling for bipartisan cooperation in passing affordable health care reform.

Democrats seek God as Ally in Health Care Debate

May 21, 2009  |  Wall Street Journal - Washington Wire

The somewhat left-leaning group and a new similarly progressive organization, Cover All Families, have launched a campaign on Christian radio that says supporting health care reform is nothing less than God's work.

New frontier in faith-based activism -- affordable health care

May 21, 2009  |  Indianapolis Star

Rev. John Hay Jr. says his West Morris Street Free Methodist Church in Indianapolis has long had conservative political tendencies. But when it comes to the current debate over health care reform, Hay, at left, says both he and his church are seeing the need for an atypical position for conservatives -- a greater government role in health care.

Progressive faith groups advertise on Christian radio

May 21, 2009  |  Washington Post

Christian radio sure has been hearing a lot from liberal- and progressive-backed groups lately.

Christian leaders for health care

May 20, 2009  |  Colorado-Springs Gazette

Pastors from across America, including one from Colorado, will hold a telephone press conference Thursday to talk about a Christian grassroots campaign for healthcare reform.

Faith Groups Get Involved In Health Care

May 19, 2009  |  The Atlantic Online

As a wide array of businesses, interest groups, and unions speak up on health care with reform efforts moving forward, so too are faith groups: a coalition of progressive and community-organizing-oriented religious groups will run ads on Christian radio starting Thursday (running through next week) in Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Louisiana, Missouri and Nebraska and will hold events with congregations nationwide

Health care that's affordable, too

May 08, 2009  |  Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Health Reform Blog

As the pastor of a church in Louisiana, I often receive phone calls from church members who are in the hospital. When the mother of Connie, one of our members, went in for knee replacement surgery, I wasn’t surprised when she called me up. But I was surprised when Connie said she wasn’t calling to ask for prayers for her mom.

Contra Costa County cuts health care, sheriff's deputies

April 01, 2009  |  CBS 5

Event lets activists get creative in pitches to politicians

March 20, 2009  |  Denver Post

Schools, religious organizations and community organizations got together Thursday night to tell state policymakers where they stood on health insurance, education, immigrant rights, home foreclosures and payday loans.

Op Ed: The power of SCHIP - Passage expands health care to millions of kids

February 17, 2009  |  Florida Today

Congregations for Community Action will be urging Florida to use the new funds and tools in the federal legislation to reach out and enroll uninsured children.

Obama: SCHIP bill is 'first step' toward health coverage for all

February 13, 2009  |  Catholic News Service

A few hours before the signing, a Catholic mother of three spoke in a teleconference about her reliance on Florida's SCHIP plan, called KidCare, to treat her son's heart condition and her daughter's asthma. "It was a lifesaver for me," said Nilda Santana, a member of Good Shepherd Church in Orlando, Fla., who said she was unable to afford health insurance through her employer.

My Turn: Keep going on child health care

February 09, 2009  |  Burlington Free Press

Now that Congress has passed child health legislation, they should keep going.

Health insurance bill gets signature

February 05, 2009  |  The Times-Picayune

Among those attending the White House signing ceremony was Ashanti George-Paulin and her son, Joshua, 11, who was born with a speech impediment. George-Paulin said SCHIP has allowed her son to undergo speech therapy and helped make him a healthy and good student.

Obama signs children's health expansion

February 05, 2009  |  Oakland Tribune

The Rev. George Cummings, of Oakland, was in the White House on Wednesday to see a dream come true.

The Fight for SCHIP is Won

February 05, 2009  |  Beliefnet

SCHIP & The Gospel of Life

February 04, 2009  |  America Magazine

Letter: Congress should pass SCHIP

January 12, 2009  |  2theadvocate.com

Kicking off a broader economic recovery agenda by addressing children’s health is not only the most compassionate first step the 111th Congress can take, it can also build the common ground we need for tackling the larger issues of health reform, job growth and foreclosure relief.