Defending Faith Freedom: What’s New from BJC This December
The Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty (BJC) has released its December 2025 Faith Freedom Dispatch, offering timely updates for all who care about defending religious liberty and resisting Christian nationalism. Read the full newsletter here.
Respecting Religion LIVE – Watch the Replay
BJC hosted a special LIVE episode of Respecting Religion on December 4, where hosts Amanda Tyler and Holly Hollman broke down the latest developments in religious liberty and the growing challenges posed by Christian nationalism.
If you missed it, you can still watch the replay on BJC’s Facebook or YouTube channels. It provides helpful insight into current trends that affect congregations and faith communities nationwide.
Applications Open for the 2026 BJC Fellows Program
Young professionals ages 25–45 who care deeply about faith freedom for all are invited to apply to the 2026 BJC Fellows cohort.
The program launches with an in-person seminar July 28–August 1, 2026, in Colonial Williamsburg and Richmond, Virginia, featuring learning sessions, historic site visits, and conversations with experts.
A no-obligation information session will be held on January 20 at 4 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. CT.
BJC Welcomes the Rev. Dr. Katie Callaway
BJC has named The Rev. Dr. Katie Callaway as its new Director of Development. With deep experience in fundraising, public theology, and pastoral ministry, she will help advance BJC’s mission to defend faith freedom for all and counter the rise of Christian nationalism.
Amanda Tyler in The Dallas Morning News
In a recent op-ed, Executive Director Amanda Tyler warns about a proposed legal settlement that could erode protections provided by the Johnson Amendment—opening the door for political pressure within congregations. Tyler argues that maintaining nonpartisanship is essential to religious integrity and authentic Christian witness.
Additional Highlights
BJC and Christians Against Christian Nationalism have launched a new merch store.
A successful Giving Tuesday has energized BJC’s year-end work.
Respecting Religion Season 7, Episode 5 examines the religious freedom case Landor v. Louisiana Dept. of Corrections.
Why This Matters for Us
As Lutherans committed to our neighbors’ dignity and flourishing, we value partners like BJC who help safeguard religious liberty in a polarized time. Their work reinforces our call to prevent faith from being co-opted for partisan or nationalistic purposes—an issue that continues to affect our synod and congregations across the country.