For some Americans, the Qanon conspiracists who fed the violence of the January 6th attacks on the heart of our democracy are a scary footnote to history. For many others, the movement remains alive and relevant. While pastors have been essential in the lives of many through these turbulent times, a large number of them are struggling to continue in ministry. And while theocrats are less prominent in the halls of power – for now – in truth, efforts to build and promote a White Christian America are only accelerating. Biblical citizenship, anyone? This week on State of Belief, Interfaith Alliance’s weekly radio show and podcast, we’ll look at these three examples of a divided America.
Despite the recent sentencing of conspiracy theorist Jacob Chansley, Qanon loyalists still rally around shared beliefs — almost a year after the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection — and are attracting a shocking number of white Evangelicals. American scholar Dr. Mark Juergensmeyer will join Rev. Welton Gaddy, host of State of Belief, to discuss his latest article for Religion Dispatches, Vainglory days: A foremost expert on religious violence offers clues to how QAnon might end, and outline the parallels he sees between QAnon and religious extremism.
Respite for Revs — a campaign organized by an assemblage of faith-oriented groups — offers support to clergy members who have been affected by a tumultuous year hallmarked by the pandemic and polarizing politics. Baptist Women in Ministry’s executive director, Meredith Stone, will sit down with Welton to talk about the group’s efforts and progress.
The term “biblical citizenship” has been used by a handful of congresspeople, state legislators and religious leaders. But what does it mean, and what place does it have in a secular, pluralistic society? Mya Jaradat, religion reporter for Deseret News, will discuss her investigation into the concept – and the training programs set up to promote it across the country, Constitution be damned.
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