Not Too Long, Worth the Read: August Edition

As we mourn the loss of Dolly Parton, we give thanks for her contributions and commitment to philanthropy and supporting all of God’s people. May we follow in her example as we seek to serve others, and work for good in the world.

We celebrate those who are committed to serving the greater good. This past month has brought stories of people of faith running for public office, communities stepping up in the midst of hardship and those standing up for religious freedoms.

Here are some stories that caught my attention this month.

The Good  

Progressive candidates of faith are taking seriously the call to serve the common good and are talking about the impact of religion on their politics. This has opened conversations affirming that Democrats, Republicans, and independents can all be people of faith. Though their opponents claim they aren’t true Christians, their candidacies challenge (always false) assumptions that one political party has a monopoly on faith.

Adam Hamilton, a pastor in the United Methodist Church and progressive candidate running for U.S. Senate in Kansas, recently saw his sermons challenged by Sen. Roger Marshall and Sen. Ted Cruz as too woke and heretical. As someone who has collaborated with Adam on UMC-related issues, I can assure all readers that he is committed to strong biblical and theological interpretation.

For those interested in sharing their faith with the next generation, a recent story emphasizes the importance of parents and faith leaders for Gen Alpha and Gen Z youth. These voices are trusted and valued over digital content or social media. The survey reveals that younger generations are seeking input to help shape their faith life and religious practices.

And, for some playful news, the Chicago White Sox gave away hats to fans in honor of Pope Leo. It was a hit! A fun reminder of the importance of faith and community!

The Bad

In troubling news, we learned that the Department of Homeland Security is monitoring congregations involved in protests against ICE. More alarmingly, surveillance took place even during worship services, and the Trump Administration sought full access to churches to arrest immigrants.

A married couple was killed in  was deported and his wife followed. Their 14-month-old was present for the murders, though not harmed. And there are fears that more deaths will be the direct result of the Trump Administration’sdecision to end temporary protected status for Haitians and other immigrants fleeing countries in crisis.

Women’s Equality Day is August 26 and celebrates the adoption of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. While events are taking place to honor that date, it is also a reminder that women’s equality remains unattained. A recent study ranked Oklahoma among the worst states for gender equality. The work continues.

The Ugly 

Recent elections in the United States have coincided with an upswell of hateful rhetoric. There have been religious attacks on candidates who are Muslim, allegations of anti-Semitism, and transphobic language in both domestic and international elections. People of faith should challenge these hateful actions.

Many in Gary, Indiana, are still without power. Students started school this week, even as the crisis continued. Residents continue to seek relief as churches and other nonprofits step up to serve the public. Clergy are holding elected officials accountable and have been advocating for basic needs to be met amid the crisis.

An interfaith delegation was detained and turned away by Israel’s border control. The group was seeking to enter the country to learn about life in the West Bank and to advocate for a ceasefire between Palestine and Israel.

What have you been reading that is catching your attention? What are you learning that is raising your interest in the intersection of faith and politics? Who has inspired you this past month?