What Is Kendrick Meek's Religion?

Kendrick Meek, the four-term Democratic U.S. congressman from Florida, is running for the Florida Senate in a three-way race against the Republican Marco Rubio, the tea-party favorite and former Florida state legislator, and Republican-turned-independent Florida Gov. Charlie Crist. As part of a Politics Daily series providing background about the major candidates in 2010, here are some answers to frequently asked questions about Meek's life.

What is Kendrick Meek's Religion?

Meek is a Baptist.

Where does Kendrick Meek worship?

Meek is a member of Mount Tabor Baptist Church in the Liberty City neighborhood of Miami, Fla., which Meek has attended since birth.

Was Kendrick Meek born Baptist, or did he convert?

Meek was born Baptist.

What has Kendrick Meek said about the Baptist Church?

Meek has not spoken specifically about his personal faith, but he often incorporates faith-based metaphors in his remarks, as when he discusses the political opportunism of his opponent Charlie Crist, saying, "To get religion after services have let out for the day is not an act of faith." He additionally refers to faith by axiom as a shared American value: "To give thanks for all that we cherish as Americans -- family, faith and freedom." He says that his personal goal as a father is to teach his children "the importance of faith and family," and regarding some of the uglier campaigning early in the race, Meek said, "My faith drives me to forgive everything that's been said so we can think clearly, so we can lead on behalf of this state."

What is Kendrick Meek's position on the mosque planned near the World Trade Center?

Meek chose to not address the issue, saying "I'm not going to step in front of a decision that's already been made in New York City." He did add, however, that there is already a mosque inside the Pentagon, lightly implying that the issue is overblown.

Does Kendrick Meek's position on issues align with those of mainstream American Baptist churches?

No. While Meek speaks frequently about having a private faith, he identifies as in favor of abortion rights and supports gay rights, as well as voting against insulating the Pledge of Allegiance from the purview of the courts.

Also see:

Is Kendrick Meek Married?

How Old Is Kendrick Meek?

Latest Kendrick Meek News and Information

Read Kendrick Meek's full bio on his website.