Texas Faith is a weekly discussion that poses questions about religion, politics and culture to a panel of Texas religious leaders.

This week's question, in part, is: Is there a particular faith-related question you would like to see Gov. Sarah Palin address?

Here are excerpts from some of this week's answers:

• Geoffrey Dennis, rabbi, Congregation Kol Ami, Flower Mound; University of North Texas professor: "The story of Governor Palin's daughter's pregnancy has just come to light. Frankly, I hope this story will be dropped quickly. All families, regardless of their religion or values, potentially face such situations. Sen. Barack Obama was right to declare turning a political focus of family members 'off-limits.' A related policy question does arise in my mind, however. Given the research that shows that 'abstinence-only' sex education in the public schools does not yield any actual reduction in the rate of teen pregnancy, where does she stand on its continued funding? She is reportedly quite committed to combating pork-barrel and wasteful government spending in other areas – does this also extend to ineffective programs such as this one, even if they may be sacred cows to her party or religious constituents?"

• Cynthia Rigby, professor, Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary: "I would ... like to ask her: 'Can you please tell us more about how your belief that God created the universe informs your stated view that creationism be taught, alongside evolution, in the public school system?' And, perhaps, a follow-up: 'In your view, is it possible to believe God created the universe and, at the same time, to embrace evolutionary theory?' "

• William Lawrence, dean and professor, Perkins School of Theology, Southern Methodist University: "Having identified yourself as strongly pro-life and strongly in favor of capital punishment, what religious or theological perspective frames those issues for you and allows you – intellectually and spiritually – to hold what appear to be such contradictory points of view?"

• George Mason, pastor, Wilshire Baptist Church, Dallas: "Republicans have traditionally used religion to oppose certain things such as abortion, gay marriage, and stem cell research, and support policies that favor traditional families, funding for faith-based social programs, and a greater latitude for religious expression in public life (as long as it generally comports with Christian doctrine). Few of these positions have had wide-scale success in being implemented into public policy. On the other hand, Republicans have resisted Democratic efforts to make poverty, health care, and war into moral issues that have religious values at their core. Since governing is about getting something done, not just staking out ideal positions, what faith-related issues would Palin see on the horizon that might garner bipartisan support and actually make a difference in the lives of people beyond elections?"

To read more responses and post your own comments, go to dallasnews.com /texasfaith.

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