Jesus would be ashamed

Via Kevin Drum, we learn from this LA Times article that the evangelical Christian groups stand strongly in favor of torture.

WASHINGTON — Conservative activists are heaping criticism on Sen. John McCain for fighting President Bush over proposed rules for the interrogation of terrorism suspects, a dispute that has reopened long-standing divisions between the maverick Republican lawmaker and his party's establishment.

The attack from the right, which coalesced over the weekend, could undercut McCain's effort to woo Bush backers and other party regulars for an anticipated 2008 presidential bid. His position on terrorism prisoners has fueled critics' skepticism about McCain's conservative credentials.

"This very definitely is going to put a chilling effect on the tremendous strides he has made in the conservative evangelical community," said the Rev. Louis P. Sheldon, chairman of the Traditional Values Coalition, one of several conservative activists who support Bush's proposal on interrogation techniques.

I suppose this is fully consistent with much Christian thinking throughout the centuries. There was, of course, the Spanish Inquisition that was staged to force the conversion of the moors and the Jews and to rid the Church of perceived heresies. Then, on the protestant side, there were the Salem witch trials right here at home. And, the KKK loves crosses too, doesn't it, if only to burn them?

Somehow, I think Jesus would be pretty ashamed of what goes on in his name.