Campaigning in the church?

Rick Perry's gone too far. Again.

First, there was the ad.

"I'm not ashamed to admit that I'm a Christian," the Texas governor said. "But you don't need to be in the pew every Sunday to know there's something wrong in this country when gays can serve openly in the military but our kids can't openly celebrate Christmas or pray in school. As president, I'll end Obama's war on religion, and I'll fight against liberal attacks on our religious heritage. Faith made America strong, and it can make her strong again."

Being controversial can often garner more support, but in this case, it was a major fail, leaving a sour taste in voters' mouths.

Stepping across the line again, he attempted to campaign in two northern Iowa churches last week: First Wesleyan in Charles City and Clear Lake Evangelical Free Church in Clear Lake.

After being invited by the pastor, Perry was treated like a VIP in Charles City, addressing the congregation, not offering a sermon but a stump speech, similar to the one he's been delivering across the state.

At Clear Lake Evangelical Free, the reception was much different. Perry was not allowed to address the congregation, nor was his presence acknowledged by church leaders.

The church's choir was performing its annual Christmas cantata, something they'd been working on for months. The Houston Chronicle makes it sound pretty exciting, as "a flashy, contemporary multimedia presentation celebrating the Christmas season."

Having a politician present during a performance to simply enjoy it is perfectly fine, but it was apparent that Perry had another agenda, especially since he was accompanied by a media entourage.

I grew up attending Clear Lake E-Free, and still attend when I go home for the weekend. From what I've heard from congregation members, they were not impressed, and some were downright disgusted that Perry and his entourage disrupted the service.

Being a politician of faith, with strong moral convictions is something to applaud, but disrupting a worship service should be scoffed.

If you really have to stoop that low to grab voters' attention, maybe it's just time to hang up the hat and bow out gracefully.

* The columist is a member of the Pilot-Tribune news staff. Reach her at amiller@stormlakepilottribune.com