We are writing to express our deep concern about budget cuts that are currently being considered by the state Legislature.

The proposed cuts to balance the budget without raising taxes will harm the poorest and most vulnerable of our fellow citizens. The cuts would reduce benefits such as health care for the elderly, children with disabilities, and indigent adults; limit access to food stamps; and lower reimbursements for foster parents.

This should not happen in the world’s richest country. Further, at least some of the cost will simply be passed on to our local communities.

This is not a political issue. Gov. John Baldacci, whom we respect, is apparently supporting these proposed cuts.

Forcing the poorest and weakest members of our communities to bear the brunt of budget cuts is immoral. It violates the fundamental beliefs of Christians, and members of other faith communities. We have been taught to feed and clothe those in need, and to tend to the sick and those in prison. “I tell you, whenever you did this for one of the least important of these brothers of mine, you did it for me” (Matthew 25: 40).

However the shortfall is met, whether through selective tax increases, state borrowing, or from the state’s rainy day fund, our faith requires that we speak up to protect the most vulnerable of our citizens.

Pat and Henry Stewart, Greenwood