The Sun Journal editorial July 30 stated, “In any event, we hope this flap (LePage/Mitchell ageist, Francophobe comments) isn’t a sign of what’s in store for Maine voters in the months ahead.”

In an effort to move this hope from feeling to action, the Maine Council of Churches has drawn up a “Document for Civil Discourse” that the council is asking candidates for governor and all citizens, especially those who volunteer or contribute to campaigns, to sign.

In the interest of full disclosure, I am president of the MCC’s board, a commissioned minister in the United Church of Christ, a teacher, and a citizen deeply concerned about the apparent lack of regard for even the most basic principles governing decent human interactions shown in recent political campaigns.

Anyone signing the covenant promises to act respectfully toward others, to refrain from personal attacks (while maintaining the right to disagree vigorously) and from demonizing opponents (characterizing the opposition as evil). That person also refuses to make untrue statements, to value honesty, truth and civility, while striving to find workable solutions, and — here is the most striking difference between this and the state’s code of ethics — expects that anyone working on his behalf or, if a voter, anyone he contributes to or works to get elected, would do the same.

Candidates should do whatever else they can to make sure public discourse is worthy of the great issues at stake and the great nation we are and can become.

Silver Moore-Leamon, Auburn

President, Board of Directors

Maine Council of Churches