BJC: Religious Freedom in the Classroom, at the Polls, and in Our Congregations
BJC’s September newsletter offers timely resources for congregations navigating religious freedom, public education, election-season engagement, and immigration-enforcement preparedness. These tools can help leaders respond thoughtfully, faithfully, and nonpartisanly in their communities. Read BJC’s September newsletter in full.
For Lutherans, public witness is rooted in love of neighbor and the conviction that every person should be able to worship, learn, and participate in civic life without fear. This does not require partisan involvement. It calls us to be informed, to protect the dignity of our neighbors, and to engage the public square with clarity and care.
The newsletter includes:
A back-to-school roundup on religion in public schools, including a guide for families and educators.
Election-readiness resources for congregations, focused on the distinction between advocacy and partisan activity, protecting tax-exempt status, and supporting safe, accessible elections.
An immigration-enforcement preparedness guide for houses of worship, with practical information on response teams, building access, warrants and subpoenas, and pastoral care. BJC notes that the federal policy limiting immigration enforcement at sensitive locations, including houses of worship, was rescinded in January 2025. BJC’s immigration resource page provides additional context and resources.
A profile of Dr. Kylan Pew and The Black Seminarians Table, which supports Black seminarians in academic life.
An invitation to the Walter B. and Kay W. Shurden Lectures at Wake Forest University, October 21–22, 2026, featuring Maya Wiley on “Faith and Freedom at 250: Religious Liberty, Justice, and the Unfinished Work of Democracy.”
A reminder that BJC spring internship applications are due September 20.
Congregation leaders, educators, and members are encouraged to review these materials, share them with the appropriate ministry teams, and consider how they may support faithful, informed engagement in local communities.
