I WAS shocked to see that a Bolton church was used for the launch of the Conservative Party national election campaign.

When the vicar says that the Conservative Party election campaign "fits really well with the aims of our parish" we have a Christian church (the established one) directly endorsing a political party.

Many Christians like myself would question whether Conservative Party policy, particularly on the benefits cap and the bedroom tax, fits with following Jesus of Nazareth who consistently told us to put the poorest first.

Many Christian organisations, such as Church Action on Poverty, have criticised these policies which have seen people going hungry, even dying, in our country.

But at the very least is it not a good idea to keep a wall of separation between religions and party politics?

Churches should campaign on particular policies, but should never directly endorse a single political party.

It seems to me Walmsley Parish Church has done exactly that. This is a dangerous road to go down, one that should be resisted by us all, of any faith or none.

Stephen Lingwood

Minister

Bank Street Unitarian Chapel

Bolton