get into the fray of politics, MP the Rev. Trevor Woolridge said yesterday.

"There are some who believe in the separation of church and state,'' Mr.

Woolridge told Hamilton Lions at the Princess Hotel. "But I believe the church and the state can work very closely together.'' Citing a long tradition of AME politicians in other countries, the Progressive Labour Party MP said the clergy was obliged by its very calling to affect political changes and should do so in Bermuda.

"They are commissioned by God to become more active,'' he said.

Pointing out the various problems that currently plague Bermudians, especially young people, Mr. Woolridge said that the Island's clergy has a moral responsibility to do all it can.

"It is essential for church leaders to meet the needs of the whole person and not just the spiritual needs.'' At the same time, Mr. Woolridge stressed, lay people should not simply sit around and wait for things to happen for them. Echoing a common theme in the black community of late, he urged ordinary individuals to become more active in the Island's political scene.

"Not only do I believe that more clergy persons must get involved in politics, but more people in the community must. Bermuda needs committed persons of all faiths to work for the common good of Bermudians.''