Herenton Letter to Ministers Draws Mixed Reaction

When in comes to openly expressing the depths of his religious beliefs, former Memphis Mayor, now 9th District Democratic congressional candidate, Willie Herenton, has often spoken of being secure in his faith.

But, Herenton's decision to send a two-page letter to members of the Memphis Baptist Ministerial Association on Tuesday outlining policy positions he's espousing in his campaign against incumbent, Steve Cohen, apparently receiving mixed reactions some African American clergy.

In asking for the group's "consideration" of his candidacy, Herenton wrote of his opposition to the legalization of Marijuana and same-sex marriages. With Memphis SCLC Executive Director, Reverend Dwight Montgomery, Herenton's firm declaration in those areas struck a responsive chord.

Reverend Montgomery asserted, "We love everybody. But, our biblical principles would certainly mandate that we would be against same-sex marriage and certainly against legalization of marijuana for social use."

However, in re-iterating what's become the cornerstone argument of his campaign....that he is the man most qualified to fill the void of African American representation in the Tennessee Congressional delegation, Herenton drew a harsh rebuke from outspoken pastor, Kenneth Whalum Jr. The MCS Board member gave Fox 13 News the following statement:

“I think Herenton's letter is laughable and an insult to genuine faith community leaders." (Unquote)

The volatile battlefield of religion and politics has led to open warfare between Herenton and some prominent African American clergy leaders before. While campaigning for his third term in 1999, Herenton was the target of a number of negative radio ads voiced by local pastors and reverends which attempted to cast doubts about whether black voters should re-elect him.

But after Reverends LaSimba Gray and Bill Adkins launched separate audio attacks, Herenton reacted without showing any outward anger. "All I can do is pray for him. I hope that he serves the same God that I serve? I'm just gonna pray for him!"

Montgomery says that while the ministerial association has a policy of not endorsing candidates, he thinks any rift Herenton had with his organization has already been addressed.

Montgomery related, " Dr. Herenton attended a meeting of the Memphis Baptist Ministerial during the last time he ran for Mayor. Our position must be that when we judge candidates we must judge them based on the character not the color of their skin....and make sure they have a record that is positive to carry our community forward."