Jesus and John Wayne

Saint Philip's ongoing antiracism discussion group will begin a new book on Sunday, March 28. This book and our discussions will take a closer look at how Christian nationalism and racism have combined in recent decades to become a powerful force in modern America.

Recent history has shown how a flashy "barker" can become president of the United States and capture many people under his circus tent. Many of these people were Christian evangelicals. However, the promise of power has been made to evangelicals for many years, starting in the 1950s. These fearful people perceive a loss of governmental power to Blacks, Muslims, Hispanics, Native Americans, and others whom they perceive as different.

With a catchy title, Jesus and John Wayne: How White Evangelicals Corrupted a Faith and Fractured a Nation, Kristin Kobes Du Mez unravels a history of how corrupt power has manipulated fears in America, where an established majority fears becoming a minority and Christianity has been used to elevate patriotism.

The Saint Philip's antiracism discussion group welcomes new members at any time. To receive weekly reminders with Zoom login information, reading assignments, and discussion questions, register here. Register here