by Eva Andrade, Hawaii Family Forum

The 2012 elections are over and no matter where you go, you will find yourself being bombarded by predictions (via television or social media) of looming national catastrophe and/or the ascendancy of socialism. Some are breathing in a sigh of relief that the man we “know” was reelected, or shell-shocked and angered that the man we “hoped for” was rejected.

What does this mean for us here in Hawaii? Two things come to mind, one, we are still the same people of faith we were before the election and two, our moral compass and biblical foundation has not changed - nor should it.

The good news is that voter registration, as it does every two years, went up. The bad news is that voter turnout may have actually DROPPED in 2012 (read Civil Beat report of 11/07/12). That means there are still thousands of people in Hawaii who choose not to vote. There is so much work to be done in that regard and we will continue to expand and define more clearly our iVOTE Hawaii efforts.

Most of the politicians, on both the national and local level, have been pretty forthright about their positions on moral and social issues. Voters have made their choice, and people who did not vote allowed the choice to made for them, so now the real work begins.

We have been warned that both same-sex marriage and physician-assisted suicide will be brought up quickly. The recent election has given supporters of both the necessary adrenalin rush and giddy excitement they need to promote these ideals at the legislature.

Other issues will also garner our attention and efforts – housing issues including transitional housing for inmates, attempts to legalize gambling, protection of our keiki, end of life care, and adoption promotion. Our priorities will be set by our board within the next month.

Paul reminds us to “not grow weary of doing well.” (Galatians 6:9) As we have done since 1998, we will continue to promote the value of life from conception to natural death; promote the family by supporting natural marriage between one man and one woman; and promote the right of religious institutions to govern themselves freely without government interference and/or restrictions.

Now, here’s the hard part… None of this can happen without funding. This economy has hit us very hard and there is no way we can skip around the issue. We know you understand because we understand fully that it has hit you just as hard. Please forgive us for asking for your monetary kokua at every turn!

At this juncture, we are looking for people who are willing to make a one year commitment to a monthly donation to Hawaii Family Forum for $15 - $25. This donation will enable us to educate, equip and empower churches to stand up for LIFE, FAMILY and RELIGIOUS FREEDOM in Hawaii. If you are interested, please click here to download the pledge form. We are also now accepting gifts from the National Christian Foundation. This is a great place to give and manage ALL your non profit giving. Click here for more information. Many local Christian non-profits accept donations through NCF.

Even a one-time gift of $25, $50 or $100 will go a long way to ensuring that we continue our efforts in the community. If you cannot give at this time, please say a prayer for us – and for all elected officials.

With that said, please know that Allen Cardines and I are praying for each and every one of you. Your ongoing prayers and support of our ministry over the past several years mean a great deal to us.

Next week we will be sending out our monthly e-newsletter and will update you on other issues. Until then, be blessed and stand strong. The immovable rock upon which stand remains our constant support.

God bless you!