INTRODUCTON Barack Obama became an Illinois State Senator eleven years ago. While still a state senator, he gave the keynote address for the Democrat National Convention four years ago. He took the oath as a United States Senator three years ago. He declared himself a presidential candidate one year ago. Presently, he is the likely Democrat nominee for president. What explains this extraordinary rise to power? Some believe personal charm and political grooming are sufficient explanations. No doubt, charm and party efforts helped; however, his 20 year membership in the Trinity United Church of Christ is more helpful in...