Thrivent has “temporarily” thrown the baby out with the bathwater. Let’s hope it’s very “temporarily”, indeed.
The corporation has posted a statement, responding to the controversy surrounding the inclusion of a Planned Parenthood affiliate in their Thrivent Choice program.
First the very good news: the Planned Parenthood affiliate has been removed, effective immediately.
“After input, discussion and a review of the concerns from Thrivent members, the leadership of this local chapter voted Thursday to remove it from the Thrivent Choice program effective immediately.”
Next, the not-so-good news: They’ve temporarily suspended all pro-life and pro-choice organizations from their Thrivent Choice program.
However, given that this second move is being done in addition to placing a temporary hold on any new organizations being added to the program, and a comprehensive review of the program, it may just be a necessary, momentary evil. (I truly hope that it is.)
I’m glad to see the comprehensive review, as the inclusion of a Planned Parenthood affiliate indicated a massive failure of oversight and moral direction in the Thrivent Choice program. Thrivent is “a faith-based, not-for-profit membership organization nearly 2.5 million members strong.” They are a Christian organization. A pro-life facility is in no way controversial in regards to that which guides the actions and life of a Christian, namely the word of God. Pro-choice organizations are in fact opposed to the clear, indisputable word of God.
Thrivent, as soon as you are able, please restore eligibility for pro-life organizations in Thrivent Choice. Permanently exclude any organization which describes itself, or operates, in fitting with your “pro-choice” label. Abortion is murder – fifth commandment stuff. It’s not fitting for a Christian organization to have its cash drawer open to those who advocate or commit murder without remorse.
Thrivent, I hope that the pro-life organizations that have been helped with Thrivent members’ Thrivent Choice funds aren’t now casualties of a misguided effort to honor so-called “diversity.” “Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.” (Rom. 12:9)
Until then, Thrivent, I imagine there will continue to be a massive outcry amongst the same Thrivent members who opposed your inclusion of Planned Parenthood at your exclusion now of faithful, helpful pro-life organizations.
CLICK LIKE IF YOU’RE PRO-LIFE!
In the meantime, I’ve asked Thrivent to provide some more information:
@thrivent Please provide a list of the pro-choice and pro-life organizations that you are temporarily suspending from Thrivent Choice.
— Michael Schuermann (@mschuermann) December 20, 2013
LifeNews: Michael Schuermann writes for Daring Lutheran, where this originally appeared and is reprinted with permission. He is the Pastor of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Sherman, lIlinois.