On July 4, 1776 the Second Continental Congress adopted a statement announcing the independence of the thirteen colonies, then at war with Great Britain. The Declaration of Independence proclaimed the American colonies to be independent states free from British rule. On November 20, 2009 another declaration was published. This statement does not assert freedom from rule, but freedom under rule. The Manhattan Declaration informs civil authorities that those who sign will adhere to their convictions and “under no circumstance abandon their Christian consciences.” The truths revealed in this declaration may not be self-evident, but are Spirit manifested, held dear, and avowed to have proceeded from their Creator.
The Manhattan Declaration was drafted by Dr. Robert George – Princeton University, Dr. Timothy George – Samford University, Beeson Divinity School, and Chuck Colson – founder of the Chuck Colson Center for Christian Worldview. The writers begin with a brief reminder of the propensity for Christians to “defend the weak and vulnerable” and to give determined effort to “protect and strengthen vital institutions of civil society.”
A combination of Orthodox, Catholic, and Evangelical Christians, the group is united to “reaffirm fundamental truths about justice and the common good.” The proclamation also stands as a call for citizens, whether believers or not, to join in defending these truths which include (1) the sanctity of human life, (2) the dignity of marriage as the conjugal union of husband and wife, and (3) the rights of conscience and religious liberty.
There are no new truths in this declaration. But in response to the existing cultural assault these statements are reaffirmed and published for the good of society and the resolution of human dignity. Signers of the Manhattan Declaration are committed to honoring these truths fearlessly, in all circumstances, and regardless of the consequences as they pursue life and liberty.
The Manhattan Declaration was drafted by Dr. Robert George – Princeton University, Dr. Timothy George – Samford University, Beeson Divinity School, and Chuck Colson – founder of the Chuck Colson Center for Christian Worldview. The writers begin with a brief reminder of the propensity for Christians to “defend the weak and vulnerable” and to give determined effort to “protect and strengthen vital institutions of civil society.”
A combination of Orthodox, Catholic, and Evangelical Christians, the group is united to “reaffirm fundamental truths about justice and the common good.” The proclamation also stands as a call for citizens, whether believers or not, to join in defending these truths which include (1) the sanctity of human life, (2) the dignity of marriage as the conjugal union of husband and wife, and (3) the rights of conscience and religious liberty.
There are no new truths in this declaration. But in response to the existing cultural assault these statements are reaffirmed and published for the good of society and the resolution of human dignity. Signers of the Manhattan Declaration are committed to honoring these truths fearlessly, in all circumstances, and regardless of the consequences as they pursue life and liberty.
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