Jack Graham

     EDITORS' NOTE: The following statement about the start of war with Iraq was issued by Southern Baptist Convention President Jack Graham on March 20. Graham is pastor of the Dallas-area Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano.

Jack Graham

     DALLAS (BP)--The primary responsibility of our government is to protect its citizens and there are times when war becomes a necessary last resort. Removing Saddam Hussein from power is a just and necessary action after 12 years of lies and deception. I believe it is the responsibility of America to lead in the desire for freedom and peace around the world. For this reason, I, along with millions of Southern Baptists, support our President's decision. This war is "just" because its cause is liberation not occupation, protection not aggression, peace not appeasement.