Vice President Kamala Harris On Her Faith | CNN's Presidential Town Hall

Summary

Vice President Kamala Harris reflects on a pivotal moment after President Biden's withdrawal, revealing that one of her first calls was to her pastor, Reverend Dr. Amos C. Brown. Seeking spiritual connection and guidance, Harris shares how the biblical story of Esther provided comfort during this time. Raised with a strong belief in a loving God, she emphasizes that faith is lived through action, particularly through service to others. Her upbringing in Oakland's 23rd Avenue Church of God shaped her understanding of faith as a guiding principle in her work and life's purpose.

Takeaways

• 😀 Kamala Harris called her pastor, Reverend Dr. Amos C. Brown, after President Biden announced he was dropping out of the race.
• 😀 Harris felt the gravity of the moment when she received the call from President Biden, understanding its significance without knowing exactly how the day would unfold.
• 😀 The conversation with her pastor was not a confession but rather a moment for spiritual guidance, prayer, and comfort.
• 😀 Harris found solace in discussing a part of scripture involving Esther, which she felt applied to her situation.
• 😀 Harris prays every day, sometimes even twice a day, as part of her spiritual practice.
• 😀 Growing up, Harris was raised in a church that taught faith as an action, emphasizing the importance of living one's faith through service to others.
• 😀 Her upbringing at 23rd Avenue Church of God in Oakland instilled in her a belief in a loving God and the value of serving others.
• 😀 Faith is a central aspect of Harris's life, guiding her decisions and how she approaches her work.
• 😀 Harris believes that faith should be lived out through actions that uplift and care for others, which influences her political approach.
• 😀 Prayer is an important part of Harris's daily routine, providing spiritual grounding in the midst of her responsibilities.

Q & A

What was the first phone call Kamala Harris made after President Biden announced he was dropping out?

Kamala Harris called her pastor, Reverend Dr. Amos C. Brown of Third Baptist Church, for spiritual support and guidance.

What was the significance of Kamala Harris's conversation with her pastor?

The conversation was deeply meaningful as Harris sought spiritual comfort and advice, especially in light of the gravity of the moment. She needed prayer and reflection as she navigated the unexpected challenges of the day.

How did Kamala Harris describe the moment when President Biden dropped out?

Harris described it as an extraordinary and serious moment, acknowledging that she instinctively understood the gravity of the situation without fully predicting how the day would unfold.

What scripture did Kamala Harris reference during her conversation with her pastor?

Harris referenced the story of Esther in the Bible, specifically the part about being called to action in a 'time such as this,' which provided her with comfort and perspective during the challenging moment.

Does Kamala Harris pray daily?

Yes, Kamala Harris prays every day, and sometimes she prays twice a day. Prayer is an integral part of her daily routine and spiritual practice.

How did Kamala Harris's upbringing influence her approach to faith?

Harris was raised in the 23rd Avenue Church of God in Oakland, where she was taught to live out her faith through action. She learned that faith is a verb—something that should guide her efforts to serve and uplift others.

What does Kamala Harris mean by 'faith is a verb'?

By saying 'faith is a verb,' Harris means that faith should not just be a passive belief but something actively expressed through one's actions. It calls for living in a way that serves and cares for others.

How does Kamala Harris's faith influence her work in public service?

Harris's faith guides her to focus on caring for and serving others. She sees her life's work as a way to uplift people and improve their lives through service, aligning her faith with her professional efforts.

What role does prayer play in Kamala Harris's leadership?

Prayer serves as a source of strength and clarity for Harris, especially in moments of uncertainty or challenge. It is a daily practice that helps her maintain focus and purpose in her leadership role.

Why did Kamala Harris feel the need for spiritual connection after President Biden's announcement?

Harris felt the need for spiritual connection because of the profound weight of the moment. Given the unexpected and significant changes in the political landscape, she sought comfort, advice, and prayer to help her navigate the situation.