Positions on Social Issues

Foreign Aid, Funerals, Gambling

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Foreign Aid

Recognizing a responsibility for "the well-being of our brothers in the economically under-developed countries" where necessary capital cannot be raised locally or "through the normal channels of private investment from abroad," Convention in 1962 urged that "an increased appropriation of mutual security funds be devoted to economic aid and technical assistance." A 1983 Convention resolution called upon the governments of the United Sates and the U.S.S.R. to work with all countries that are "trying to better their standard of living and civil liberties, no matter what form of government they choose," but that foreign aid be withheld from those countries where these standards are not being met.


Funeral Practices; Christian Burial

A 1965 Convention resolution urged people of the Church to "consult with their clergyman and perhaps with a funeral director about desired arrangements for their own burial, registering their burial wishes in writing with their next-of-kin and with the parish."


Gambling

Convention voiced opposition to legalized off-track betting in 1965, to state-operated lotteries in 1966, and in 1979 to the establishment of gambling casinos in New York State. The 1966 resolution expressed opposition to "any proposal through which state or municipal governments would encourage further gambling by the general population to increase support of public services."

 

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