Book Recommendation: My Disability is Divine
As a scholar and disability rights advocate, Amy Kenny illuminates aspects of our own lives, our congregations, and our society that continue to harm our neighbors living with disabilities and hold all of us back from enjoying true community.
An ‘Empathy Gap’ Divides Americans Ahead of the Midterms, Says PRRI Report
A survey released Tuesday (Oct. 20) found that Republicans and evangelicals increasingly see empathy as a danger that can lead society away from God. The survey found that more than half of Americans see President Trump as a threat to democracy.
Faith Leaders Unite Across Religions to Counter Voter Intimidation on Election Day
While the idea of poll chaplains has been around for several years, 2026 will likely be different because there is widespread concern that the presence of federal immigration agents could create a chilling effect.
Florida Churches Turn Backpack Drives Into a Gateway to Immigration Advocacy
Beyond supporting families in distress, the group hopes to activate Christians — especially White or English-speaking evangelicals — who have been sitting on the sidelines in aiding immigrants as mass deportations have ramped up.
Reflecting on ‘Pastor Spies’ in Minnesota
This issue of A Public Witness contemplates historical parallels between the Stasi secret police force in East Germany targeting activist Lutheran congregations and DHS agents spying inside ELCA churches today.
After Religious Pushback, Trump Says Pentagon Won’t Livestream Execution
President Donald Trump announced Thursday (Oct. 15) that the Pentagon will not livestream the execution of the Fort Hood shooter, backing away from a proposal that triggered widespread pushback from prominent religious leaders.
Pew Midterm Report: Religious Voters Worry About Economy; Evangelicals Stick With GOP
Religious Americans are unhappy with both political parties, Donald Trump, and the state of the country ahead of the midterms, according to Pew Research. The economy and the future of democracy top their concerns.
Oklahoma State Board Again Rejects Jewish Charter School in ‘Shocking’ Vote
The Oklahoma Supreme Court rejected the existence of a publicly funded Catholic charter school in the state in 2024, and a deadlocked U.S. Supreme Court later upheld that decision.
Review: Devils of Democracy
From the founding fathers to the rise of Christian Nationalism, this new book from Michael E. Heyes reveals how America's centuries-long obsession with evil has shaped — and endangered — the United States.
Planned Public Execution Sparks Debate of Biblical Proportions
This issue of A Public Witness considers the claims that ‘the Bible says so’ and the diverse Christian voices opposing the snuff film planned by the Crusader leading the Pentagon.