The Centre for an Ethical Society (CES) has analysed replies from political parties to its 16 point questionnaire on key issues of social justice and rated them on a "good Samaritan" index.

The Democrats scored the highest with 77 [of 80], followed by the Greens, 74 & the ALP 66. The Coalition failed the "Good Samaritan" test scoring 37.

The CES is a mainstream Christian ecumenical body established in 2006 promoting Christian social justice values. It seeks to co-operate in the development of a more just and compassionate Australia.

Its Charter affirms that commitment to social justice is an intrinsic non negotiable element of Christianity and is the application in society of Christ's commandment to love your neighbour as yourself.

"Social justice is a major and core element of Christianity as over 2800 verses of the Bible make clear and as Christ himself affirmed when he said that to love God and to love your neighbour as yourself are the two greatest commandments" said Bishop George Browning, CES Board Chairman.

He regretted that this is often forgotten by the public and by some Christians, who give the impression that Christians are only concerned with a narrow range of issues concerning the beginning and end of life and sexual orientation".

He added: "Social Justice is of course not the only factor to be considered by Christians when they come to decide whom they want to govern this prosperous nation which has the material and wealth to minimize, and even abolish, the many social injustices which exist in Australia.

"But it is an important factor which a Christian cannot ignore without questions being raised as to whether they have a proper understanding of their faith".

[Read the full story at http://www.journeyonline.com.au/showArticle.php?categoryId=2]