Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Anglican Priest in England Tells His Congregation It's OK for Poor to Shoplift

An Anglican priest in England finds himself in the center of controversy for telling his congregation that it is morally justifiable for the poor to shoplift, according to the Christian Today website.

Father Tim Jones of St. Lawrence and Hilda Church in York gave the example of prisoners being released from prison without benefits or other financial assistance, saying it was better for people in such circumstances to turn to shoplifting from large retailers rather than prostitution, mugging, or burglary.

"My advice does not contradict the Bible's eighth commandment, because God's love for the poor and despised outweighs the property rights of the rich," Father Jones said in a sermon on Sunday, December 20, 2009.

Speaking on behalf of the Anglican Diocese of York, The Archdeacon of York the Venerable Richard Seed, said the Church of England "does not advise anyone to shoplift or break the law in any way."

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