Jesus & Gerrymandering
In this issue of A Public Witness, we count the fights over redistricting and the relative quietness from Christians amid this partisan fight. Then we map out what values Christians should push amid redistricting squabbles.
Missouri Governor’s ‘Christian Values’ Statement Questioned
Missouri Gov. Mike Parson has no “litmus test for appointments,” his spokeswoman said Friday, despite a statement earlier in the week indicating he would only nominate a state health director who shared his “Christian values.”
Thy Kingdom Come?
In this issue of A Public Witness, we recite the ways the Lord’s Prayer has been co-opted at political rallies across the country. Then we meditate on what is happening and the inherent politics of the Lord’s Prayer.
Eric Schmitt Fails a Moral Test on School Masks
Brian Kaylor reacts with satirical humor and sharp criticism to Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt filing lawsuits against dozens of public school districts after school officials enacted mask rules to keep children and teachers healthy amid the omicron surge.
Gay History Exhibit Removed from Museum at Missouri Capitol
An exhibit on Kansas City’s gay history has been removed from the Missouri Capitol following several complaints, including from a GOP official who works in the building. Article on new controversy cites a 2017 Word&Way interview with Mike Parson. Read full piece
Guilty Even When Proven Innocent
In this issue of A Public Witness, we take a closer look at the injustices of Lamar Johnson’s case and what is needed to secure his freedom. We also introduce you to Johnson through an exclusive interview with this brother in Christ as he speaks from
Missouri Christian School Teacher Charged in Capitol Riot
Six months after her husband was charged in connection with the U.S. Capitol insurrection, a Springfield Christian elementary school teacher faces the same allegations. Read full piece
Many Bible Belt Preachers Silent on Shots as COVID-19 Surges
Across the nation’s deeply-religious Bible Belt, a region beset by soaring infection rates from the fast-spreading delta variant of the virus, churches and pastors are both helping and hurting in the campaign to get people vaccinated against COVID-19.
Rachel Maddow References Clergy Vaccine Statement
Rachel Maddow mentions the Missouri clergy statement organized by Word&Way. See video clip
200 Missouri Clergy Urge More Vaccinations
Clergy from around the state are joining calls for Missourians to get vaccinated. More than 200 Missouri pastors and ministers have signed a statement urging Christians to get the COVID-19 vaccination. Read full piece