The role of religious leaders in political life has come under renewed discussion in the Virgin Islands, as Bishop John I. Cline, interim president of the National Democratic Party and former senior pastor of New Life Baptist Church, defended the participation of clergy in governance.
Speaking in an interview with Cathy Richards of JTV, Bishop Cline rejected the view that religious leaders should remain separate from politics, arguing that such a position is not grounded in biblical teaching.
“It’s a misunderstanding and a misguided view,” he said. “There’s no biblical precedent for that position to be taken.”
The discussion comes as Bishop Cline transitions from decades of pastoral leadership at New Life Baptist Church into a more active role in public affairs, including political organizing and potential candidacy. His involvement has prompted questions from some members of the public about whether clergy should engage directly in partisan politics.
Bishop Cline said the concept of separation between church and state originated in historical efforts to limit institutional influence, rather than from religious doctrine.
He cited biblical figures such as Moses and David as examples of leaders who combined spiritual and civic responsibilities, arguing that faith-based leadership can contribute to national development.
Locally, he pointed to historical figures including H. Lavity Stoutt, Ivan Dawson and Terrance B. Lettsome, who were associated with religious ministry while also serving in public leadership roles.
“There’s no precedent for excluding men of God from governance,” Bishop Cline said.
He said his decision to engage more directly in politics reflects a belief that meaningful change requires participation in decision-making.
“I believe sometimes, when you’re in the room where decisions are being made, that’s the best place to be if you want to affect change,” he said.
Bishop Cline added that his approach to leadership would be shaped by his experience in ministry, with a focus on service and community engagement.
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