Coincidentally, in a week that saw the passing of a Religious Right pioneer, a left-wing preacher is making a national bid for political influence.

Rev. Bob Edgar, founder of the “What Would Jesus Drive Campaign?”, represents a coalition of Big Business and Green groups called Re-energize America. Edgar came to Detroit this week along with NRDC activists and former CIA chief James Woolsey to make media rounds before a Michigan town hall-style meeting.

“We are called by our faith to serve and protect God’s creation,” said Edgar, a former Pennsylvania congressman and now general secretary of the National Council of Churches of Christ. “The health and well being of too many people, including our children, is at stake for global warming to be merely a political or even just an environmental issue.”

Where the Religious Right pulpit preaches lifestyle changes to save the soul, Edgar preaches lifestyle changes to Save the Planet.

“Simple changes in the car you drive or the lighting you use can make a difference,” Edgar told The News edit board.

Convert to CFL bulbs, brother, and your planet will be saved! Comical. . . until you realize these folks have the ear of power in Washington these days.