Jill Martinez was there, Tuesday, July 24, 2007, Special Called Meeting of the Presbytery of Santa Barbara, Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Ms. Martinez says "What a joy it is to preside over the Eucharist and to share in such a wonderful community." Rev. Jill Martinez, "nominated for Moderator of the 212th General Assembly in 2000, and who joined the Witherspoon Society in the same year, is running for Congress in California's 24th congressional district." Martinez was said to be "...a precocious youngster who loved to retell the Bible stories she learned in Sunday school. What about Church and Government? Martinez relinquished participation in her church's medical and pension fund, per candidate guidelines. She can still perform marriages and consult her religious community. But Martinez knows her full-time job is running for Congress, and when she wins - serving her constituients. And there is no conflict of interest. "In my decision-making I incorporate who I am ethically and morally, but I believe in the separation of church and state," she said. "I don't use religion as a litmus test." Jill Martinez extends her service to many faith based organizations like the The Interfaith Initiative of Santa Barbara County, an interfaith organization dedicated to enhanced understanding, acceptance, and action to improve the quality of life of all people in our community. Once again, proving her ability to look for the similarities and not let differences get in the way.
