Friday, August 30, 2024

SojoMail - How Christians can protect democracy

This week: how Christians can protect democracy, a new film’s systemic demons, and a border shelter run by Muslim women.

Illustration of US Capitol Building with a cross at the top of the dome.

How Christians Can Counter Christian Nationalism

Scholars, pastors, and activists weigh in on hopeful action to undo a heretical belief system in the cover story of our new special issue on Christian nationalism:

Weaponized Christian nationalism seeks a “Christian” government that would erode civil rights and undercut election integrity and democratic principles. It endorses the use of violence to obtain or maintain power; embraces white supremacy; and distorts Christian language, symbols, and identity into tools for political manipulation and gain.

At the same time, beliefs about “God and country” exist on a wide spectrum. White Christian nationalism is sometimes supported by people who are not white. And stifling all participation by people of faith in public life is not a suitable alternative to nationalism.

In other words: It’s complicated. You’re not alone if you are confused, concerned, or dismayed by these topics. But hopeful action is possible. The following short essays by scholars, pastors, and activists offer insights on Christian nationalism and how to dismantle it. For a list of additional resources and effective actions for Christians to support democracy, go to sojo.net/steps-to-democracy.

Read the full article

Our Latest Stories

Four faces surround a white cross, surrounded by black.

‘The Deliverance’ Aims to Exorcize the Demon of Racism (by Deirdre Jonese Austin)

Netflix’s new addition to the exorcism genre centers a Black family in an apostolic Black church, not unlike the one I grew up in.

Woman with short hair wearing glasses and a patterned button-down shirt is surrounded by abstract tool shapes.

The Reconstruct: Abby Olcese Watches Movies ‘Devotionally’ (by Mitchell Atencio)

Faith-based film companies rarely produce compelling movies, explains the film critic. But honest depictions of faith still abound.

Mosque with a blue dome surrounded by slightly cloudy sky.

At the Border, a Shelter By — And For — Muslim Women (By Ken Chitwood)

Along the Mexico-U.S. border, Albergue Assabil is protecting Muslim women (and others) who didn’t feel safe elsewhere.

An image of a white church stands behind a fluttering American flag.

From the Magazine: How to Be a Christian in Public (by Amanda Tyler)

The question is how to ensure our witness both represents our own faith and respects the faiths of others.

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Union Avenue Christian (Disciples of Christ) St Louis seeks a new Sr Pastor

Is God calling you to work shoulder to shoulder with an O&A congregation, wanting an experienced leader to help us continue growing Gods presence in the inner city? We are a unique congregation and will give you opportunities to stretch your administrative skills, your creativity, and expand your faith.

100 sermons on sexual and domestic violence

Scripture is not silent on abuse, but these stories are often missing in our Sunday morning teachings. You can change this! Visit our 100 Sermons on Sexual and Domestic Violence collection and be equipped to tackle these biblical accounts and speak out on sexual and domestic violence.

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