Duval Times

On September 19, U.S. Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) addressed the National Religious Broadcasters association, emphasizing the importance of faith-based messaging in society.

“The most important thing the government can do is protect the institutions that are the fiber of the nation: the family, the community, and the faith…. Your mission is to bring Christians news and information in a manner that’s consistent with their values and hopefully inspires them to live up to those values…. Our job is to ensure that your right in this country to do that remains unencumbered,” stated Senator Rubio.

Rubio spoke about various topics, including politics and issues affecting people of faith. He noted that while laws are significant, they should not overshadow personal beliefs and values. “We cannot make politics and government our god,” he said.

Reflecting on Christian teachings, Rubio mentioned how early Christianity spread through acts of kindness rather than power or wealth. He emphasized America's identity as a nation composed of families living in communities rather than just its government structure.

“The most important house in this country is not the White House. It is your house. It’s the first school. It’s the first government. And it’s where we acquire values,” Rubio remarked.

He discussed human nature's constancy over millennia and how moral guidance comes from value systems rather than advancements or laws alone. “Human nature needs to be controlled... They come from a system of values,” he explained.

Rubio praised Christianity for promoting compassion and selflessness, suggesting these qualities strengthen society. He highlighted America's tradition of helping others globally as rooted in its faith-based values.

“It explains a lot of our history... When you have instilled in the values of your country to help the less fortunate... we feel compelled to do something about it,” he added.

He also touched on family dynamics, stating children should be seen as blessings rather than burdens and underscoring government's role in supporting dignified work for strong families and communities.

“Our own founding documents say our rights come not from the government but from our Creator... My job is to protect those rights,” Rubio concluded, stressing religious broadcasting's civil importance alongside its spiritual mission.

The senator acknowledged challenges in legislating these ideals but reaffirmed his commitment to protecting freedoms essential for fostering strong families and communities aligned with core values.