Study Questions to “A Religious Witness to the breach in the Social Covenant for the Common Good between the People and the State of Wisconsin, January through June 2011”

1.    Why do you think this document is called a ‘social covenant”?  What does the word “covenant” mean?  What is the significance of the term ‘covenant’ in the title of this document?

2.    The scriptural quotations were chosen to reflect the faith teachings of the Jewish and Christian traditions as related to the areas of concern.  Do you think these were appropriate quotes?  Can you find other texts that would also be relevant?  What texts from other faith traditions that also would speak to these issues?

3.    When is it appropriate to use faith teachings and beliefs in public policy debates?  When might it be inappropriate?

4.    There are those who believe it is an integral part of religious practice and belief for clergy and people of faith to be involved in matters of social justice/public policy.  There are others who believe it is never appropriate for clergy or faith communities to be involved in these matters.  Some label these issues as “political” in nature, and others call them “social justice” issues.  What do you think?

5.    What is your feeling about employing the resources of the government (municipal, state, or federal) to address issues such as poverty, health care, or education funding?  Do you think that the biblical author(s) intended that followers place confidence in government to do these things, or that such services should be financed principally by private funds?