In a video address Tuesday, President Obama told hundreds of young evangelical Christian leaders gathered at the Q Conference in Washington, D.C., that they had a partner in the White House in their humanitarian and social justice efforts.
Transcript of Obama's message to the Q Conference (via the White House Office of Faith-based and Neighborhood Partnerships):
Hello, Q. Welcome to Washington.
A few days ago, Christian leaders from across the country gathered for our third annual Easter Prayer Breakfast at the White House. Joel Hunter delivered a message about the meaning of the resurrection. Sara Groves led us in worship. Louie led us in prayer.
It was a time to reflect on what Christ did for us on the cross, and praise a God whose work in our midst didn’t culminate on the cross, but continues today.
That work can be found in our culture, our congregations, our missions, and our love for one another. It can be found in all of you who are doing your part around the world to address our most difficult challenges. God’s hand is moving through His people.
We’re seeing it in Portland, where congregations of believers are working with the local city government to serve the community together.
We’re seeing it on college campuses, where students have risen up through the Passion Conference to help end modern slavery.
In all these efforts, I want you to know that you have a partner in the White House.
My Administration is committed to meeting many of the same needs and addressing many of the same injustices that you are. Through our summer food program, we’re making sure kids in this country don’t go hungry. Through our budget, we’re focused on giving a hand to those who are suffering, at home and abroad.
But we also know that government isn’t the only answer. So many of the challenges we face are also problems of the heart, and without committed individuals, thriving families and strong institutions, any attempt to address them will be incomplete. We need all hands on deck.
So I want to thank Gabe and Rebekah Lyons and their team here at Q for bringing this important conversation to Washington. And thanks to all of you for your service to your communities, and the values you bring to the public square. The fact of Easter, and the reality of what God is doing in the world requires us to confront the opportunities and challenges of our age. I look forward to continuing to work with you towards restoration and justice.
God bless you.
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