Theresa May Should Not Use Position to Promote Her Christian Faith, Group Warns

Theresa May
Britain's Prime Minister Theresa May addresses the Confederation of British Industry's (CBI) annual conference in London, November 21, 2016.  Reuters/Stefan Wermuth

British Prime Minister Theresa May should be careful not to "abuse her position" to promote her faith, an organization that promotes secular democracy said.

The National Secular Society reminded Mrs. May that she must not "promote Christianity or impose her own religius values on others." The reminder came after the prime minister said in an interview that her faith in God guides her through the most crucial decisions demanded of her leadership.

The organization's campaign director Stephen Evans said it is understandable that some people cling to their faith during difficult times, but the prime minister must remember that not all British citizens share the same faith.  

"Many people lean on their faith during trying times and it's no surprise that Theresa May is no different," Evans said, according to The Independent. "However, the Prime Minister would do well to remember that she governs on behalf of everyone, including those of minority faiths and of course the majority of citizens who are not religious."

Evans was referring to Mrs. May's statement during an interview with The Sunday Times that debates and "complex issues" regarding Brexit are keeping her up at night, but her faith guides her in making tough decisions that "works for everyone."

"It's not so much about how do you steel yourself, it's about, 'Are you doing the right thing?' If you know you are doing the right thing, you have the confidence , the energy to go and deliver that right message," Mrs. May said.

"I suppose there is something in terms of faith, I am a practising member of the Church of England and so forth, that lies behind what I do. It's not like I've decided to do what I'm going to do and I'm stubborn," she said.

The prime minister said before she makes decisions, she investigates the facts and studies the arguments and the possible consequences. After a thorough investigation and she is convinced it is the right decision, she goes for it even though the process is difficult.

In the same interview, Mrs. May also briefly gave a background of her growing up years as a vicar's daughter, which exposed her to people from all walks of life, greatly influencing who she is today.

Mrs. May's revelation of the role that faith plays in her life caused the National Secular Society to send out a message urging her to stop promoting Christianity because the people she leads have diverse beliefs.

"While it is fine for Theresa May to have a faith, what she mustn't do is abuse her position to promote Christianity or impose her own religious values on others," Evans said.  

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