Christian group warns against rise of ‘Christian nationalism’

A group formed by Christian leaders is warning against the rise of “Christian nationalism,” saying the merging of Christian and American identities poses a threat to U.S. democracy and religious communities. 

“As Christians, we are bound to Christ, not by citizenship, but by faith,” Christians Against Christian Nationalism’s statement reads.

“Whether we worship at a church, mosque, synagogue, or temple, America has no second-class faiths. All are equal under the U.S. Constitution.”{mosads}

The statement is endorsed by at least 17 Christian leaders from various churches and organizations, according to the group’s website. 

The leaders say “Christian nationalism” seeks to bind Christianity and American citizenship in a way that “provides cover for white supremacy and racial subjugation.”

“Christian nationalism demands Christianity be privileged by the State and implies that to be a good American, one must be Christian,” the group said in its statement. 

The group’s credo includes a list of beliefs centered around the Constitution’s religious equality and calls on Christians to “reject this damaging political ideology.”

Among the groups endorses is the Rev. Michael B. Curry, the bishop who presided over the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. 

“The violence, intimidation and distortion of scripture associated with ‘Christian nationalism’ does not reflect the person and teachings of Jesus Christ,” Curry said.