Faith Freedom Dispatch: Confronting Christian Nationalism & Defending Religious Liberty
The Baptist Joint Committee (BJC) has released its latest Faith Freedom Dispatch, highlighting important work across the country to protect religious liberty, confront Christian nationalism, and equip faith communities for public witness. We encourage congregations and leaders in the Grand Canyon Synod to explore these timely updates and consider how we, too, are called to respond with courage, clarity, and compassion.
Shurden Lectures: Criminalizing Mercy
At this year’s Walter B. and Kay W. Shurden Lectures—held in the Twin Cities—Dr. Sergio M. González explored “Criminalizing Mercy: Sanctuary and Government Repression of Migrant Justice.”
He lifted stories of Christian compassion and courage within the sanctuary movement, reminding churches of our shared call to accompany our immigrant neighbors. A recording of Dr. González’s keynote is now available online.
Clergy Organizing: Confronting Christian Nationalism
On October 30, BJC and Christians Against Christian Nationalism hosted their first national call for clergy and ministry leaders. Pastors reflected together on the challenges of ministry amid rising authoritarianism, building relationships and discerning faithful response.
The next Clergy Quarterly Touchpoint is scheduled for January 29, 2026.
New Podcast Season: Respecting Religion
Season 7 of the Respecting Religion podcast is now live.
The new season explores:
The new Supreme Court term
A religious freedom case involving a Rastafarian man, Damon Landor
Updates on the Johnson Amendment
Faith leaders’ peaceful response to immigration raids
Episodes are now available on audio platforms—and for the first time—on YouTube.
New Merch Store
BJC and Christians Against Christian Nationalism have opened a new merch shop featuring shirts, totes, and other items that encourage public witness rooted in serving neighbors and protecting faith freedom for all. Proceeds support BJC’s advocacy and organizing work.
BJC in the News
BJC Executive Director Amanda Tyler was recently featured on NPR speaking about the dangers of equating Christianity with partisan identity.
She emphasized that the U.S. has no national religion, and that freedom of conscience is fundamental to our democracy.
Additional Updates
BJC’s Board elected new officers
BJC joined a multi-faith coalition in Landor v. Louisiana Dept. of Corrections and Public Safety, before the Supreme Court
The Summer/Fall Report from the Capital is now available—free in print or online
Support the Work
BJC is powered by grassroots supporters who show up, advocate, and give.
Learn more or make a gift at bjconline.org/give.
As Lutherans committed to gospel-rooted public witness, we recognize the importance of defending religious liberty as a gift that protects all people. We encourage congregations to stay connected with BJC as we work together for justice and faith freedom for every neighbor.
