No Rest From Politics

In 2006 Diocesan Bishop Marc Andrus lay in front of the
Federal Building to protest the Iraq War. (Episcopal archives)

Since 2012 we have commented on the outspoken advocacy of leftist politics by the Episcopal Church. So far, most priests we know have not crossed the line where they claim to be speaking for the church. (Admittedly, it is difficult for casual observers to discern the difference when priests wear collars to political events and demonstrations.)

The 2015 Diocesan Convention noted signs that the half-century decline in church attendance has bottomed out. Other mainline Protestant churches have experienced the same leveling, even an uptick in attendance. [bold added]

Galvanized by opposition to Trump administration policies, these congregations, which typically are theologically liberal and historically white, are turning themselves into hubs of activism. For some congregations, that shift has prompted a surge in attendance—especially among young people—something mainline Protestant churches haven’t seen in decades.

Liberal churches are organizing rallies, taking on racial issues and offering sanctuary to undocumented immigrants. Some clergy have returned to the front lines of protests, where they are playing more prominent roles than any time since the Vietnam War.

Arguing against church involvement in progressive politics is a lost cause, especially in the San Francisco Bay Area.

I will just say that it's very sad that leaders of the religious left have adopted the worst traits of the religious right: 1) Blaming others (Trump, Republicans, racists, etc.) for the world's problems instead of looking into their own hearts and actions; 2) Being self-righteous about it.

Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye?---Matthew 7