And unless you have not seen a television or newspaper in the last couple of days, you already know that Palin is the running mate  of Republican presumptive presidential candidate Sen. John McCain.  As such her life, for better or worse, is an open book, she and her family are finding out today.

Several leaders of national Christian groups have come out in support of Palin’s daughter, Bristol, and Palin’s family for the way they have dealt with this situation thus far. According to news reports the family is supportive of Bristol’s decision to have her baby and they have announced that she is to marry the child’s father.

Read on for excerpts of statements from some Christian leaders:

Melinda Delahoyde, Care Net president: “Every day, a parent learns the shocking news of a child’s unplanned pregnancy. Some, while disappointed, respond with unconditional love and offer their support and care. Others, for numerous reasons, often pressured by what others may think, encourage their child to choose abortion. Children, out of deference to a parent’s career and reputation – whether it’s as a pastor or as an elected official – may choose abortion. This decision brings grief to the entire family.

“The Palin family, however, has chosen a path not without difficulty, but one without the grief of abortion. They have showed to their daughter what so many children go without – unconditional love. Their example will pave the way for other parents, especially those in high profile careers, who are faced with the same circumstances.

“With the love and support of her family, Bristol has made a brave and difficult decision. She and her future husband will be in our prayers. Instead of choosing a quick escape, they have embraced the circumstances and chosen to have hope in what the unknown future may bring.”

Wendy Wright, president of Concerned Women for America Legislative Action Committee: “The surprise announcement that Gov. Sarah Palin’s daughter is pregnant provided another opportunity for the vice-presidential candidate to make a politically convenient choice or the right one. The family could have treated the innocent baby as a ‘punishment’ and secretly snuffed out the child’s life to avoid a high-profile embarrassment. Instead, they are embracing this unexpected baby as a child worthy of love, a human being who deserves respect, a weak member of their family who needs their care. The Palins have opened their family’s challenge for all the world to see, providing a beautiful example for other families, many who have faced the same predicament.”

Rev. Bob Schneck, National Clergy Council president: “This is a private family matter. The Palins, especially their teenage daughter, are entitled to privacy on this matter. Anyone who cares about young people will back off and give this young woman the space she needs. Anyone who exploits her for political or commercial gain is disgraceful.”

(AP Photo above right:  Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin comes off the stage to greet the crowd after appearing with Republican presidential candidate, Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., not in photo, during the “Road to the Convention Rally,” in Dayton, Ohio on Aug. 29. With her are her children Bristol, left, holding Trig, and Willow, center.

Carla Hinton

Religion Editor

 

The executive producer of the show, which ended its long run (first on FOX and then on the CW) a few seasons ago, is Brenda Hampton and she has a new TV show that is gaining popularity.

It’s called “The Secret Life of the American Teenager” and it revolves around Amy Juergens (portrayed by actress Shailene Woodley, pictured above), a teenager in high school who is pregnant.

The first time I watched the show I was intrigued by the subtle and not-so-subtle messages that are sent out via the characters and the various scenarios they find themselves in.

I noted to my own teens that someone involved with the writing of the show had to be a Christian because I sensed an underlying foundation that tied in with biblical principles.

Thus I’m blogging about the show here.

I’m writing a story (not for Religion) about the show and wanted to hear from others who may be watching it or have already tuned it out, for whatever reasons. I figure that some “Seventh Heaven” fans may have found out that Hampton is behind it and tuned in because of that.

So, if you know about the show (it airs Tuesday evenings on the ABC Family Channel) and would like to comment about it, send me an e-mail at chinton@oklahoman.com.

Just let me know what you think about the show, the premise and the characters thus far. Are you a parent watching it with your teens? Are you a teen or young adult watching the show because you liked “Seventh Heaven”? Let me know.

Carla Hinton

Religion Editor