I’ve heard this question. Sometimes out of curiosity. Sometimes a bit of a challenge. It’s easy to be confused. We toss around labels, even when we don’t understand. So, what is White Christian Nationalism?
There are many definitions. The main point is that white Christian nationalism is not a religious denomination, but it is an absolute distortion of our Christian faith. The foundational principles have no relationship to Jesus or the teachings of Jesus. Guiding beliefs are that this country was created as a distinctly Christian nation (more on that in future articles) and that all other religions must be secondary to Christianity, if permitted at all. This ‘Christless Christianity’ believes the United States is uniquely chosen by God, superior to all other nations. Many also believe that full U.S. citizenship should belong to native-born white Protestant Christian men. Thus ‘Christian Nationalism’ is rightly also called White Christian Nationalism.
There are several other characteristics. These characteristics include but are not limited to: fear of other religions, fear of immigrants and refugees, condoning or excusing police violence against Black Americans, opposing science education, and belief that men are far more qualified for leadership than women.
In our country and in Vermont, there are people who fully believe the tenets of this ideology. Some of us fully reject these ideas. And many people are in between, supporting some of the ideas but disagreeing with others.
In this space, over the next few months, we will provide information about this ideology and explain the threat that it carries. Fear and hatred have no place in Jesus’ Gospel.
Author: The Ven. Susan McMillan, committee chair
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