This year, people of faith have a decision to make about the November elections: not for whom to vote, but whether we will let politicians - of either party – exploit our faith for cheap political gain. Because all religious traditions agree that our faith compels us to participate in the political decisions of our state, it is appropriate for our religious congregations to promote civic responsibility. And our religious leaders should help inform their congregations about the important issues at stake in elections. Unfortunately, in recent years rather than respect these efforts, opportunistic politicians have tried to subvert them for their own benefit – coveting our pulpits for their press conferences and our pastors as puppets for their campaigns. The Respect Our Faith campaign is a line in the sand of Texas’ religious community, putting politicians on notice that “Enough is enough!” This election year, clergy and lay people from across the full spectrum of religious and political beliefs will come together to encourage healthy civic and political involvement in congregations. But we will also speak out against partisan political activities that are detrimental to a healthy democracy and disrespectful of our religious congregations.               Respect Our Faith is a grassroots campaign of clergy and religious lay people organized by the Texas Faith Network.