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On this episode, The Washington Post's Libby Casey, Rhonda Colvin and James Hohmann are joined by religion reporter Michelle Boorstein and Rome bureau chief Anthony Faiola to discuss the papal conclave and the election of the first American pope, Leo XIV.The crew breaks down the process the cardinals followed, then dives into the politics of the conclave: How cardinals make themselves candidates, and how they try to elevate their positions behind the scenes while adhering to the strict traditions surrounding the process.And finally, the crew breaks down whether the cardinals take American politics, or world politics, into account at all when choosing a new leader for the Catholic Church.
In our second show of the second Trump administration, Amanda and Holly run through a list of recent events that point to a gross misunderstanding of what “religious freedom” means. They review the policy announcements made during the National Prayer Breakfast – including the creation of a task force to “eradicate anti-Christian bias” – and they look at how this administration's accusations and actions are limiting the religious freedom of several Christian groups who serve others. They also discuss the growing resistance, including court challenges and two opportunities for action to share your views with Congress and the Trump administration. In the final segment, Amanda and Holly share how BJC is celebrating Black History Month with a special invitation. SHOW NOTESSegment 1 (starting at 00:38): The National Prayer Breakfast and an anti-Chrisitan bias task force Listen to Amanda and Holly's previous conversations on the National Prayer Breakfast in the following episodes: S1, Ep. 01 in 2020, beginning at 28:44 into that first episode of this podcast series. S4, Ep. 11 in 2023, exploring the many questions it raises and how it differs from the National Day of Prayer. After the second event tied to the National Prayer Breakfast, President Trump released an executive order creating the White House Faith Office and announced his appointments to the office. On the same day, he released an executive order creating the Task Force to Eradicate Anti-Christian Bias. Amanda posted her reaction to that action on Bluesky. In her testimony before Congress in 2018, Amanda spoke about the need to acknowledge and address violence and rhetoric directed against religious minorities in the U.S. and abroad. Segment 2 (starting at 14:29): Executive order on education, lawsuits on immigration, and the rescinding of the sensitive locations memo President Trump released an executive order titled “Expanding Educational Freedom and Opportunity for Families” and BJC shared our concerns in a statement about how such an act would undermine religious freedom. The Cooperative Baptist Fellowship joined the lawsuit filed by Quaker congregations challenging the removal of the “sensitive locations” guidance as a violation of religious freedom protections under the federal Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA). Read more about the lawsuit on our website. After we recorded this podcast, another lawsuit was filed by a number of religious denominations and organizations, including two supporting bodies of BJC: Fellowship Southwest and Convención Bautista Hispana de Texas. Read more from Baptist News Global. Segment 3 (starting 24:10): Attacks on faith-based service providers and two opportunities for action For more on the comments from Elon Musk, Mike Flynn and Vice President JD Vance targeting religious groups, read this article by Michelle Boorstein for The Washington Post: Attacks on Catholics, Lutherans suggest new Trump approach on religion “Defunding and demonizing the government's faith-based partners will make its job harder” is the title of the op-ed published by Religion News Service, written by Amanda alongside Aaron Dorfman from A More Perfect Union: The Jewish Partnership for Democracy and Jennifer Walker Thomas from Mormon Women for Ethical Government. TWO ACTION STEPS YOU CAN TAKE IN THIS TIME: Sign the letter calling on Congress and President Trump to provide necessary oversight to the Department of Government Efficiency, ensuring that the freedom for religious organizations to practice and honor their faith is not infringed upon by government action. It is organized by BJC, Mormon Women for Ethical Government, and A More Perfect Union: The Jewish Partnership for Democracy. Click here for the letter. Tell your member of Congress to oppose House Resolution 59, which could condemn a sermon by Bishop Mariann Budde as a “distorted message.” No one has to agree with her message to oppose this resolution, which wrongly indicates that the government should decide what is acceptable in matters of religion. We have a simple form you can use to send your own message. Click here for our form. We sent information about those two opportunities for action to people in our community who receive emails. If you would like to receive them, visit BJConline.org/subscribe to sign up for our email list! Amanda and Holly discussed the U.S. v. Skrmetti case in episode 6 of season 6. Segment 4 (starting 31:39): Celebrating Black History Month Throughout Black History Month, BJC is sharing stories and insight on our Instagram and TikTok channels. Here are a few recent videos: Black history is American history Intersection of Black history and religious freedom Black artists INVITATION: You are invited to a special livestream event on Friday, February 28, which will re-launch the book African Americans and Religious Freedom: New Perspectives for Congregations and Communities. Click here to learn more about the book and sign up for the event! Respecting Religion is made possible by BJC's generous donors. Your gift to BJC is tax-deductible, and you can support these conversations with a gift to BJC.
‘God & Country' film from Rob Reiner spotlights Christian nationalism , The Washington Post, by Michelle Boorstein, on January 11, 2024, https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2024/01/11/reiner-christian-nationalism-documentary/the speakers dissect the documentary "God and Country," shedding light on the disturbing trend of Christian nationalism in the United States. The discussion highlights the urgent need to address this phenomenon, which intertwines religious zealotry with political agendas, posing a significant threat to democratic principles and religious pluralism.The speakers delve into the definition of Christian nationalism, revealing its focus on legislating civil and criminal laws based on religious beliefs and its advocacy for the fusion of church and state. They express concern over the widespread ignorance about Christian nationalism among Americans, emphasizing the importance of raising awareness about its implications for society.As the conversation progresses, the speakers explore the motivations behind Christian nationalism, debating whether it primarily serves the interests of nationalists exploiting religious sentiment or if it's driven by Christians seeking political power. They caution against the dangers of this ideology, warning of its potential to erode the foundations of democracy and religious freedom.The conversation critiques the conflation of patriotism with religious fervor, highlighting the importance of secularism in upholding the nation's democratic values. Various examples are explored, shedding light on the nuances of identity, allegiance, and the secular principles embedded in the Constitution. Overall, the dialogue prompts reflection on the diverse expressions of patriotism and the imperative of safeguarding secular ideals in a pluralistic society.Ultimately, the discussion underscores the critical need for vigilance and action to confront the rise of Christian nationalism, urging individuals to educate themselves and others about its dangers and to advocate for the protection of secular governance and pluralistic society.The Non-Prophets 23.08.1 on February 26, 2024 with Scott Dickie, Jonathan Roudabush, and Infidel64.
This is The Briefing, a daily analysis of news and events from a Christian worldview.Part I (00:13 - 13:08) A Loud Signal from the Vatican: Pope Francis Points to Future Blessings for Gay CouplesAmid liberal revolt, pope signals openness to blessings for gay couples by Washington Post (Anthony Faiola, Michelle Boorstein and Kate Brady)Part II (13:08 - 22:40) Archaeology Doesn't Lie About Biology: American Anthropological Association and Canadian Anthropology Society Cancel Conference in Denial of BiologyDis-empaneled: Bowing to political pressure, two leading anthropological associations cancel a conference discussion on the centrality of biological sex. by The City Journal (Colin Wright)Part III (22:40 - 24:56) An Unprecedented Development in U.S. History: Kevin McCarthy Ousted as Speaker of the House of RepresentativesSign up to receive The Briefing in your inbox every weekday morning.Follow Dr. Mohler:Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | YouTubeFor more information on The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, go to sbts.edu.For more information on Boyce College, just go to BoyceCollege.com.To write Dr. Mohler or submit a question for The Mailbox, go here.
A tropical storm in Southern California. Wildfires in Maui. Record-breaking heat in the Midwest. Climate reporter Brianna Sacks unpacks this summer of extreme weather, and what public officials can do to better prepare for future disasters.She explains why preparedness is key in vulnerable areas, and why places like California can sometimes get it right while others are still learning. Michelle Boorstein guest hosts.
Tom Riello talked about the transgender policy in the Baker, Or diocese. Michelle Boorstein, religious reporter for the Washington Post, shared about a Catholic group that spent millions on an app data to track gay priests. Rusty Reno discussed his First Things article, "Clerical integrity and hook up apps"
A conservative Catholic group spent millions of dollars on app data that identified gay priests. A Washington Post investigation dives into how this secretive group got data from Grindr and other apps, and what this story can tell us about data privacy in the U.S.Read more:In the summer of 2021, a prominent priest, Monsignor Jeffrey Burrill, was mysteriously outed for being a regular on Grindr, the gay dating and hookup app. The scandal sent shock waves through the Catholic church. Religion reporter Michelle Boorstein spent the past year-and-a-half investigating this story and figuring out who was behind this effort, and how they got access to this data. She stumbled upon a secretive group of conservative Catholic philanthropists that poured millions of dollars into obtaining data that identified priests who were using dating and hookup apps.As Michelle and tech reporter Heather Kelly explain, this story goes well beyond the Catholic church and raises red flags for all of us about the lack of data privacy laws and protection for people using mobile apps.
A conservative Catholic organization in the U.S. has spent millions on data from dating and hook-up apps, and used that data to track and publicly out gay priests. We talk to Michelle Boorstein, a religion reporter for the Washington Post; and discuss how your data could be harvested and used with Teresa Scassa, a professor and the Canada Research Chair in Information Law and Policy at the University of Ottawa.
The Supreme Court opened its new term this week, and Amanda and Holly look at where its last decisions are leading us. They provide updates on high-profile decisions, including the praying coach in Washington state who hasn't returned to work yet and the dilemmas facing religious schools in Maine. Amanda and Holly lament how this Court ignores the distinctiveness of religion, despite religion's special status in the Constitution. They view the Court as taking a major risk by leaving lower courts without better guidance. Amanda and Holly also weigh in on discussions regarding the Court's legitimacy and remind us that we can't just count on the Supreme Court to uphold our rights. Segment 1: Back after first Monday at the Court (starting at 01:07) You can contact Amanda and Holly with your thoughts on the show by writing to RespectingReligion@BJConline.org. Amanda was live outside the Supreme Court on the first day of the new term, and you can see that video here. Amanda and Holly wrote about the Supreme Court this week for USA Today: 'Pro-religion'? Conservative Supreme Court abandons long-standing religious liberty principles. Shurtleff v. Boston: Holly and Amanda discussed the oral arguments during Season 3 in episode 8, and they discussed the decision in episode 16. Ramirez v. Collier: Holly and Amanda previewed the case last season in episode 2, discussed the oral arguments in episode 4, and reviewed the decision in episode 16. Segment 2: Focusing on the two consequential cases that were overshadowed (starting at 13:27) Carson v. Makin: Access BJC's resources here. Kennedy v. Bremerton: Access BJC's resources here. Holly summarized both decisions in our latest magazine: Supreme Court continues to shift religious liberty landscape. Amanda and Holly discussed this article by Michelle Boorstein for the Washington Post (which includes comments from Holly): Under right-leaning Supreme Court, the church-state wall is crumbling Segment #3: What do Amanda and Holly make of conversations about this Court's legitimacy? (starting at 27:46) See a list of our previous episodes by visiting RespectingReligion.org. You can also access episodes of Respecting Religion on BJC's YouTube channel. Subscribe today! Respecting Religion is made possible by BJC's generous donors. You can support these conversations with a gift to BJC.
As the Supreme Court seems poised to strike down Roe v. Wade, we explore some of the fissures in the antiabortion movement.Read more:What does it mean to identify as “pro-life” in 2022?When Karen Swallow Prior, a longtime antiabortion activist, first heard about the Supreme Court's leaked draft opinion suggesting that Roe v. Wade would be overturned, she was thrilled. But she quickly realized her feelings on the “pro-life” movement had become a lot more complicated over the decades.Religion reporter Michelle Boorstein and Post Reports producer Rennie Svirnovskiy visited with Prior as she grappled with what it means to be “pro-life.”
Happy new year! We revisit older shows, adding updates on finance (billions of dollars worth), the Provo temple, the Devil in church meetings and certain prophecies about the color of horses. Link to our Face in Hat discord server! https://discord.gg/MnSMvKHvwh More about the deseret alphabet and Unicode by Kenneth R. Beesley: https://www.unicode.org/L2/L2002/02169-deseret.pdf https://uofupress.lib.utah.edu/an-1860-english-hopi-vocabulary-written-in-the-deseret-alphabet/ https://www.tug.org/TUGboat/tb25-0/beesley.pdf Original whistleblower article, by Jon Swaine, Douglas MacMillan and Michelle Boorstein: https://www.washingtonpost.com/investigations/mormon-church-has-misled-members-on-100-billion-tax-exempt-investment-fund-whistleblower-alleges/2019/12/16/e3619bd2-2004-11ea-86f3-3b5019d451db_story.html Some Thoughts About Ensign Peak Advisers and the Church, by Sam Brunson https://bycommonconsent.com/2019/12/17/some-thoughts-about-ensign-peak-advisers-and-the-church/ Let's Talk About Money, by Sam Brunson https://bycommonconsent.com/2021/08/21/lets-talk-about-money/#more-115349 Response to church's response, by Sam Brunson https://twitter.com/smbrnsn/status/1208433565945487360 The Good Shepherds musical: https://thegoodshepherds.net/about-the-show Provo temple pictures: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/temples/photo-gallery/provo-utah-temple?lang=eng Irreantum issue: Joe Smith and the Devil https://irreantum.associationmormonletters.org/18_1_top/ Sympathy for the “Devil”, by Roxy Rawson: https://irreantum.associationmormonletters.org/sympathy-for-the-devil/ Film Theory: Star Wars, How The Mandalorian PROVES the Empire was Right! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bjWokxCfCvs Eric's comment in twitter thread on the OT: https://twitter.com/thmazing/status/1476590787408252934
This week, Amanda and Holly explore questions swirling around vaccine mandates and religious exemptions related to COVID-19. Is there a newfound religious awakening that is leading to new requests? Are people gaming the system? Dive into the issue that is on the mind of employers, government officials and individuals across the country. Amanda and Holly discuss the religious liberty rationale for religious exemptions, the compelling government interest in mandating vaccines and how those values have been balanced in the past and in dealing with the present pandemic. They also talk about some of the difficult decisions employers are facing as they try to keep their workforce safe, healthy and productive. In the third segment, they look at the broader impact of COVID-19, including new reports on the trustworthiness of clergy when it comes to this topic. Show notes: Segment one: Why do we have religious exemptions for any laws, and why do we see so many requests right now? (starting at 00:50) Amanda and Holly discussed the COVID-19 pandemic and its intersections with religion and religious liberty at length in season one. See the following episodes: Lawsuits challenging COVID-19 directives (S1, Ep. 10, released April 23, 2020) Christian nationalism during the coronavirus pandemic (S1, Ep. 11, released April 30, 2020) Finding the right response to reopening (S1, Ep. 14, released May 21, 2020) Holly wrote an article about religious exemptions to vaccines mandates for BJC's fall 2021 magazine, which you can read at this link. Segment two: Employers dealing with the novel issue of employees claiming exemptions (starting at 15:17) Amanda mentioned watching a hearing talking about vaccine mandates — you can read a recap and see clips in this piece on our website: House subcommittees hold joint hearing on vaccine mandates and employee accommodations Here's a link to the guidance issued by the EEOC about what is required by Title VII: https://www.eeoc.gov/newsroom/eeoc-issues-updated-covid-19-technical-assistance-0 For the latest news on these issues, visit the latest news section of our website. Segment three: Where are we now with COVID-19, and how are clergy part of the conversation? (starting at 28:43) Holly mentioned this article by Zeynep Tufekci in the New York Times: The Unvaccinated May Not Be Who You Think Amanda mentioned this article by Michelle Boorstein in the Washington Post: New survey: Most U.S. churchgoers trust their clergy for covid vaccine guidance, but clergy aren't really offering it Respecting Religion is made possible by BJC's generous donors. You can support these conversations with a gift to BJC.
Here I Stand by Roland Bainton Christ & Civilization by Rohn W. Robbins “Biden says Pope Francis called him a good Catholic and said he should keep receiving Communion,” by Chico Harlan, Seung Min Kim, and Michelle Boorstein, The Washington Post, 10/29/2021 “Joe Biden’s Vatican Meeting With Pope Francis Runs Into Overtime,” by Josh Boak, […]
President Biden is a lifelong Catholic, but because he supports abortion access, some U.S. bishops believe he shouldn't take Communion. A grim discovery is spurring a reckoning in Canada. Plus, how donating breast milk can help grieving mothers heal.Read more:U.S. Catholic bishops voted last week to back a measure that would limit Communion for Catholic politicians who support abortion rights, including President Biden. Religion reporter Michelle Boorstein explains the significance of this move and what the controversy says about the state of the Catholic community in the United States.The remains of 215 Indigenous children were uncovered on the grounds of a former residential school in British Columbia. Amanda Coletta describes the history behind the disturbing discovery and how Indigenous people have been responding to it.A growing community of women who have stillbirths are donating their breast milk to families in need. Miriam Foley reports.If you value the journalism you hear in this podcast, please subscribe to The Washington Post. We have a deal for our listeners — one year of unlimited access to everything The Post publishes for just $29. To sign up, go to washingtonpost.com/subscribe.
Was the January 6 insurrection a shocking outlier event carried out by extremists, or was it a byproduct of the theology of one of the most prominent religions in the world? The answer is more complicated than you might think. This episode serves as an introduction to White Christian Nationalism, something we will certainly dive deeper into over time and one of the main reasons why I started this podcast. Speaking out is imperative to change—but not moreso than acknowledging the harms you have perpetuated. Like I said… complicated. I'm trying to approach this topic with the respect and gravity it deserves, but I am by no means an expert. I am not a theologian, a historian, or any sort of scholar on this topic, but am very open to conversations with those that are. Content warning: allusions to racism, use of violent language toward Native peoples, a quick mention of sexual assault (because of course Josh Duggar would come up again) The Letter Evangelical Leaders Condemn 'Radicalized Christian Nationalism' by Sarah McCammon Trump faith advisers condemn insurrection, but say benefits of presidency will last longer than ‘controversies' by Michelle Boorstein (briefly mentioned) Religious Group Voting and the 2020 Election by Frank Newport (Gallup) White Christian Nationalism: The Deep Story Behind the Capitol Insurrection by Philip Gorski Join the Runaway Eve community and share your own stories on Instagram at @runaway_eve! If you like what you hear, tell you friends.
(00:00-9:57): Aubrey shared about her husband's triathlon over the weekend. Brian and Aubrey reacted to the birth of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's daughter, Lilibet. (9:57-28:44): Dr. Gary Burge, Professor of New Testament and Dean of the Faculty at Calvin Theological Seminary, and Dr. David Lauber, Dean and Associate Professor of Theology at Wheaton College, joined Brian and Aubrey to chat about their book, “Life Questions Every Student Asks: Faithful Responses to Common Issues.” Learn more about Gary at garyburge.org Learn more about David at wheaton.edu/academics/faculty/david-lauber (28:44-36:19): Brian and Aubrey discussed Michelle Boorstein's Washington Post article, “Vaccines push the question: Are you going back to church?” (36:19-45:42): Brian and Aubrey talked about Rick Warren's announcement about the search for his replacement at Saddleback Church. (45:42-54:30): Brian and Aubrey chatted with listeners about what they're looking forward to doing over the summer! (54:30-1:13:17): Dr. Jim Denison, Co-founder & Chief Vision Officer of the Denison Forum and Author of, “Respectfully, I Disagree: How to Be a Civil Person in an Uncivil Time,” joined Brian and Aubrey to chat about his book and some of his recent articles at the Denison Forum. Articles discussed during the interview: “Prince Harry, Meghan Markle announce the birth of their daughter: The power of peace in a perilous world” “Naomi Osaka and Dak Prescott: The urgency and power of community” “Phil Mickelson becomes the oldest golfer to win a major title: Finding the vital balance between tradition and innovation” “Woman donates kidney to husband's ex-wife two days after wedding: How to find the community we need” “Government formed to oust Benjamin Netanyahu: An explanation and three ways to pray for Israel” Learn more about Dr. Denison and the Denison Forum at denisonforum.org See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rapid growth of secular identities and beliefs in America is transforming the religious and political landscape. “Secular Surge: A New Fault Line in American Politics” (Cambridge University Press, 2021) documents the rise of the country's largest “religious” group and its distinctive set of beliefs and preferences. The authors investigate the political causes and consequences of this secular surge, drawing on unique survey data, including interviews with members of the American Humanist Association. After a brief presentation, AEI's Daniel A. Cox will moderate a discussion with the book's authors — David Campbell, Geoffrey C. Layman, and John C. Green — AEI's Ross Douthat, and Michelle Boorstein of The Washington Post to explore what the growing secular perspective means for the future of American religion and politics. Watch the full event https://www.americansurveycenter.org/event/is-america-entering-a-new-secular-age/ (here).
DOCUMENTATION AND ADDITIONAL READING PART 1 (0:0 - 10:25): ────────────────── Pope Francis Supports Civil Unions for Homosexual Couples: The Pope Undercuts the Teaching of His Own Church WALL STREET JOURNAL (FRANCIS X. ROCCA) Pope Francis Backs Civil Unions for Gay Couples, in Shift for Vatican WASHINGTON POST (CHICO HARLAN, MICHELLE BOORSTEIN, AND SARAH PULLIAM BAILEY) Pope Francis calls for civil union laws for same-sex couples NEW YORK TIMES (JASON HOROWITZ) Pope Francis, in Shift for Church, Voices Support for Same-Sex Civil Unions PART 2 (10:26 - 17:6): ────────────────── Three Big Lessons Evangelicals Should Learn From the Pope’s Latest Statement on Homosexuality THINKING IN PUBLIC The Future of Catholicism: A Conversation with Ross Douthat PART 3 (17:7 - 24:20): ────────────────── Will There Be Any Major Party on the American Political Scene That Doesn’t Surrender to the Moral Revolutionaries? USA TODAY (JOSHUA BOTE) Tiffany Trump's speech at LGBTQ+ 'Trump Pride' event has Twitter buzzing. Here's why.
Police officers around the country are fielding an increasing number of mental-health calls. Hannah Dreier documents what it’s been like for one officer who recently completed his department’s de-escalation training. And, Michelle Boorstein reports on how gospel choirs are adapting to the pandemic’s socially distanced reality.Read more:Converging in a tense section of Huntsville: A White police officer fresh from de-escalation training, a troubled Black woman with a gun, and a crowd with cellphones ready to record.Her gospel choir brought her closer to God. Now she can only hum from home.Can a president delay a U.S. election? The Washington Post’s ‘Can He Do That’ podcast unpacks the question.Subscribe to The Washington Post: https://postreports.com/offer
Churches are facing a barrage of challenges as they navigate whether, when and how to resume in-person worship and other gatherings during the coronavirus pandemic. This week, Amanda and Holly explore what's at stake for churches and how religious liberty fits into these nuanced conversations (28:30). They look at what makes religion unique in the reopening landscape and respond to articles about life in our current context. Plus, find out how you can help shape a future episode of Respecting Religion – we want to hear from you! Segment 1: What are churches doing as the country starts to re-open? (starting at 00:40) Holly mentioned this story by Michelle Boorstein in The Washington Post about the Hopeful Baptist Church meeting again: On the first Sunday congregations could reopen, a church called Hopeful Baptist lived up to its name the first Sunday it could meet. Holly also mentioned this story by Elizabeth Dias in The New York Times about the re-opening conversations happening in congregations across the country: After Weeks on Zoom, Churches Consider Plans to Reopen. Segment 2: How does religious liberty fit into these conversations? (Starting at 20:26) Amanda and Holly devoted episode 10 to the various legal challenges to COVID-19 directives. You can listen to it at this link. Amanda mentioned this article by Brian Kaylor in Word&Way that provides an overview of the ups and downs facing congregations: More Churches Reopening as Some Close Again Amid New Outbreaks. To read about the situation at Palermo Bible Family Church, which had a service that exposed nearly 200 people to the coronavirus, here is an article from The Los Angeles Times. Holly and Amanda recommended this editorial by Peter Marty for The Christian Century: Churches obsessed with their right to reopen are missing the point. Segment 3: We want to hear from you! (starting at 37:04) To catch up on previous episodes of Respecting Religion while we take next week off, you can see a full list at BJConline.org/RespectingReligion. Let us know what questions you want us to answer, topics you want us to cover, and articles you want us to discuss. Contact the show by sending an email to bjc@BJConline.org.
The dangerous political ideology of Christian nationalism is a persistent problem in our country, and continues to be during the COVID-19 pandemic. This week, Amanda and Holly talk about how Christian nationalism often contributes to confusion about religious liberty in our public discourse at this time, conflating legal and religious understandings. They review troubling rhetoric from political leaders and how to train your ears for telltale signs that someone is using religion for their own political purposes. Segment 1: What is Christian nationalism? (starting at 00:40) There are 10 episodes in our podcast series on the dangers of Christian nationalism. They are all available on this website page. To read the statement and learn more about the movement of Christians calling out Christian nationalism, visit ChristiansAgainstChristianNationalism.org. Segment 2: Recent examples of Christian nationalism (Starting at 14:47) Read about President Trump's March declaration that he wanted to have full sanctuaries on Easter Sunday in this article from Politico. Read about the recent call with President Trump and Catholic leaders in this story from Crux. Read about several “culture war” issues in the coronavirus pandemic, including the comparison between the treatment of mosques and churches, in this article from The New York Times. BJC often has spoken out about the National Day of Prayer. Here is a link to a 2010 article written by Holly on the topic. When you post on social media about Christian nationalism, Amanda recommends using the hashtag #ChristianNationalism. You can see recent tweets on the topic at this link. Segment 3: Where did we see religion respected in our world? (starting at 33:15) Amanda mentioned an article by Adelle Banks for Religion News Service: Black church leaders urge churchgoers to continue to ‘tele-worship' Holly mentioned an NPR story by Tom Gjelten: Black pastors say they have trouble accessing SBA loan program Episode 7 of this podcast series included a longer conversation on the CARES Act and the Paycheck Protection Program. It is available at this link. Amanda mentioned an article by Michelle Boorstein in The Washington Post: Church donations have plunged because of the coronavirus. Some churches won't survive.
As the coronavirus changes everything – including the topics for this podcast series – Amanda Tyler and Holly Hollman review how religious freedom principles are coming into focus. They talk about three principles that are part of many conversations during this time: the essential nature of religion for many people (04:53), why the government does not have to treat religious organizations differently when it comes to health and safety (12:00), and why the government should not fund religion (19:55). In the third segment, Amanda and Holly talk about what they are doing – and being inspired by – during this week that marks the beginning of Passover and the advent of Easter. Segment 1: Religion is essential, but the government doesn't have to treat religious organizations differently when it comes to health and safety. (starting at 00:40) The front-page Washington Post story that Holly and Amanda mentioned is from April 5, titled “Coronavirus creates conflict for churches, where gatherings can be dangerous but also provide solace.” It was written by Scott Wilson, Michelle Boorstein, Arelis R. Hernández and Lori Rozsa. Amanda read a message on COVID-19 from Timothy Stewart, the president of the Progressive National Baptist Convention. Read the entire statement at this link. Segment 2: Government should not fund religion. (starting at 19:55) Holly and Amanda discussed the Espinoza case on government funding of religion during episode 2 of this podcast series. Holly mentioned the 2017 Trinity Lutheran case about funding a church playground. Learn more and read BJC's brief at BJConline.org/TrinityLutheran. For more information and frequently asked questions about the regulations and guidelines of the CARES Act from the Small Business Association, visit this link. Segment 3: Where did we see religion respected in the world around us? Passover and Easter week (starting at 32:14) Holly mentioned the article by Marc Fisher in the Washington Post titled “Flushing out the true cause of the global toilet paper shortage amid coronavirus pandemic.” Amanda is using this matzo ball soup recipe from The New York Times.
(00:00-10:07): Chiefs are Superbowl champs for the first time in their history. Brian and Ian listen to their favorite commercial, and touch briefly on the power of sentimental ads. John W. Whitehead writes “The Super Bowl’s Biggest Losers: The Boys and Girls Being Sold for Sex 20 Times a Day.” (10:07-29:52): We are joined by Dr. Curtis J. Sartor, the Associate Vice President for Diversity & Spiritual Development, Interim Architecture Department Chair and tenured full Professor at Judson University. He previously was the Dean of the School of Art, Design & Architecture at Judson University. He talks about how to attract and cultivate a variety of demographics and culture at Judson. He then touches on how to advance that diverse mentality into the community as well as the college. His church, Come As You Are Church, aims to reach the homeless and elderly on a community level by sharing meals with the congregation. (29:52-39:49): ShaRhonda Knott-Dawson writes “White People: Here’s Why Moving to a “Good School” in a “Good Neighborhood” Is Racist” in Chicago Unheard. Brian and Ian discuss how subtle actions of racial motivation can create prejudicial tendencies. (40:53-50:51): Sticking with the Super Bowl theme, Mikaela Matthew writes “Demi Lovato Shares How God Gets Her Through Difficult Times” in Christian Headlines. Brian and Ian discuss how refreshing it is to hear pop stars credit God for being present during lamenting times. (50:51-1:01:01): There is a silent tragedy that is unfolding today in our homes and concerns our most precious jewels: our children. Our children are in a devastating emotional state! In the last 15 years, researchers have given us increasingly alarming statistics on a sharp and steady increase in childhood mental illness that is now reaching epidemic proportions. (1:01:01-1:11:25): “In an angry America, a new remedy emerges: Compassion” writes Michelle Boorstein in the Washington Post. Brian and Ian talk about the power of compassion, not just in the church, but in the community around us. How do we understand discourse and argumentative nature? (1:11:25-1:18:25): Brian and Ian’s “Weird Stuff We Found on the Internet”: Apparently, there is a high concentration of idiots on the road, plus police dogs are now subject to home invasion. Gym partners asked to be accomplices didn’t...work out, and don’t text and trot. Meanwhile, Disney now owns a fight club. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Former Clinton White House Press Secretary—and now Wesley Seminary professor—Mike McCurry sits down with Washington Post Columnist Karen Tumulty, and Faith Angle's Josh Good, to discuss the faith journeys of the Clintons and Reagans; transformations in journalism; and new opportunities for congregations to directly engage the deep divide in America's political culture.Links from this episode:A private letter from Ronald Reagan to his dying father-in-law shows the president’s faith, Karen Tumulty, Washington Post, 09/14/18Former Clinton spokesman Mike McCurry finds his faith, marries it with politics, Michelle Boorstein, Washington Post, 02/22/14How My Party Found God, Mike McCurry, The Daily Beast, 07/14/17
A religious liberties lawyer, founding editor-in-chief of altmuslimah.com, and executive producer for the docuseries, The Secret Life of Muslims, Uddin has devoted her career to defending people of all faiths. In recent years, however, along with a trend toward secularizing and politicizing faith in general, she has seen an increase in attempts to criminalize Islam. In this timely and important book, Uddin intertwines legal arguments with her own experience, showing how a loss of religious liberties for one group affects all the rest, and proposing ways individuals and communities can preserve this valuable constitutional right. Uddin is in conversation with Michelle Boorstein, religion reporter for The Washington Post.https://www.politics-prose.com/book/9781643131313Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Got a chance to talk with Michelle Boorstein of the Washington Post who broke the story about former West Virginia Bishop Michael Bransfield. She answers some big questions regarding the “gifts” Bransfield doled out and how apparently, it’s common practices among priests. Also, did anyone in WV know that the diocese who oil rich land in Texas and where did that $15M a year go? There’s a follow-up coming…
Michelle Boorstein on new details about a Catholic bishop suspended from ministry in March. Theater critic Peter Marks with actress Laurie Metcalf on playing Hillary Clinton. And Barry Svrluga on his grandfather’s World War II journal.
This week, Nish and Amy talk about Trump's belated announcement of a White House faith office, as well as the backlash among Southern Baptist women to comments from Paige Patterson regarding marriage and domestic abuse. We also interview journalist Ruth Graham about her recent [Politico Magazine story](https://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2018/04/22/trump-christian-evangelical-conservatives-television-tbn-cbn-218008), which laid out in fascinating detail the extent to which Christian media have become an extension of the White House communications effort. And Amy takes over Three Minutes of Nish this week to rant about the National Rifle Association's prayer breakfast. **_Please visit our [Patreon Page](https://www.patreon.com/impolitecompanypodcast) and consider becoming a monthly patron of the show, for as little as $1 per month. We're halfway to our goal, which will allow us to actually release the podcast on a regular schedule you can count on!_** Discussed This Week: ['Jesus loves me and my guns': Faith and firearms touted at the NRA's prayer breakfast](https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2018/05/07/jesus-loves-me-and-my-guns-faith-and-firearms-touted-at-the-nras-prayer-breakfast/?utm_term=.19c48651cac0) (Bobby Ross, Jr., Washington Post) [Amid Stormy Daniels news, Trump announces faith-based effort on National Day of Prayer](https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2018/05/03/amid-stormy-daniels-news-trump-expected-to-announce-faith-based-office-on-national-day-of-prayer/?utm_term=.b28009bd9015) (Sarah Pulliam Bailey and Michelle Boorstein, Washington Post) ['We are shocked': Thousands of Southern Baptist women denounce leader's objectifying comments, advice to abused women](https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2018/05/07/we-are-shocked-hundreds-of-southern-baptist-women-denounce-leaders-objectifying-comments-advice-to-abused-women/?utm_term=.32ab687b120d) (Sarah Pulliam Bailey, Washington Post) [Letter from Southern Baptist women to the SWBTS Board of Trustees](http://www.swbtsletter.com/) [A letter to my brothers](https://blog.lproof.org/2018/05/a-letter-to-my-brothers.html) (Beth Moore) [Church of the Donald](https://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2018/04/22/trump-christian-evangelical-conservatives-television-tbn-cbn-218008) (Ruth Graham, Politico Magazine)
Held on December 7–8, 2017, the Religious Literacy and the Professions Initiative (RLPI) seeks to consider how religion is embedded in both constructive and antagonistic approaches to immigration, especially with respect to work undertaken by (or in collaboration with) governmental agencies. This panel and the following remarks will close the symposium. The panelists include Michelle Boorstein, Jack Jenkins, Diane L. Moore, Stephen Prothero, and Amy Sullivan. Learn more about Harvard Divinity School and its mission to illuminate, engage, and serve at http://hds.harvard.edu/.
Journalists and scholars discussed Donald Trump and evangelicals during a symposium organized by the Religious Literacy Project at Harvard Divinity School in collaboration with Boston University. The panelists were: Michelle Boorstein, The Washington Post, Jason DeRose, National Public Radio News; Eddie S. Glaude Jr., Princeton University; Debra Mason, Missouri School of Journalism; and Jeff Sharlet, Dartmouth College. Learn more about Harvard Divinity School and its mission to illuminate, engage, and serve at http://hds.harvard.edu/.
Journalists and scholars discussed refugees, immigration, and national security during a symposium organized by the Religious Literacy Project at Harvard Divinity School in collaboration with Boston University. Panelists were: Michelle Boorstein, The Washington Post; Stewart Hoover, UC Boulder College of Media, Communication and Information; and Angela Zito, Center for Religion and Media at New York University. Learn more about Harvard Divinity School and its mission to illuminate, engage, and serve at http://hds.harvard.edu/.