Ecumenical Director Meets with Lawmakers on Capitol Hill Regarding Debt Ceiling
27 July 2011
Archbishop Vicken Aykazian, the Eastern Diocese's Director of Ecumenical Relations, joined religious leaders yesterday in urging lawmakers on Capitol Hill to resolve the question of the debt ceiling before the August 2 deadline, and to arrive at a solution that takes into account the needs of struggling people.
The day-long meeting on Tuesday, July 26, included sessions with House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi and Assistant Leader James Clyburn, and staff members of House Speaker John Boehner, Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell.
"To ensure a fair budget, it is very important that we remember the most vulnerable: the elderly and children, as well as those who are poor, sick, hungry, or disabled," Archbishop Aykazian said. "It is our moral responsibility to take care of these people."
Archbishop Aykazian said the religious leaders expressed disappointment at the protracted negotiations, and called for a fair and just approach to reducing the nation's deficit.
Christian, Jewish, and Muslim leaders took part in the day's program.
Archbishop Aykazian delivered a prayer during an afternoon press conference organized by the group, asking God "to give strength and courage to our leaders to come to a peaceful solution."
