Essays

18
Jul
If Christian Nationalists Win, Your Taxes Will Support Their Church

If Christian Nationalists Win, Your Taxes Will Support Their Church

First proposed by Baptist minister John Leland in 1794, the separation of church and state ensures your taxes don’t fund a state church, your rights are equal under the law, and no religious test bars you from public office.
4 min read
12
Jun
Steps lead up to the oak, arched doors of a white clapboard church. A small garden surrounds the steps. A multicolored banner announcing peace and acceptance of all flutters in the breeze.

Writing Grants for Anti-terrorism Upgrades Because Our 200-Year-Old Church Is on the “Woke” List

Please don't shoot the organist
4 min read
16
May
A collage of antique images from colonial New England including front matter from a book on the "Trials of Several Witches," a girl waving her arms, an outdoor meeting, and Cotton Mather.

Want to Bring Theocracy to America? Cotton Mather Seekest Thee

What if Cotton Mather ran a modern nonprofit dedicated to restoring Puritan theocracy? A satire about Christian nationalism and power.
4 min read
07
May
Five Minutes Is Enough: On Making Space for Spiritual Practice

Five Minutes Is Enough: On Making Space for Spiritual Practice

When life is chaotic, spiritual practice is often the first thing to go. But five minutes — done consistently and without guilt — can be enough to change how we feel, think, and show up in the world.
4 min read
30
Mar
A colorful stained glass window in six panels featuring Jesus on the cross, Mary Mother of Jesus gazing up at her son, another haloed figure, and a sad-looking sun and moon.

What's Left When You Realize Jesus Didn't Die for Your Sins?

A progressive Christian reconsiders Easter and asks what remains of Jesus’ message once sin, sacrifice, and literalism are set aside.
4 min read