On Wednesday, January 6th, the world watched as a violent mob stormed the U.S. Capitol in an attempt to overturn the results of the recent presidental election. The shocking incident resulted in the deaths of five people – including a Capitol police officer.
Amidst all of the political flags and signs, there was another sight to behold – scores of religious symbols, particularly Christian crosses, and signs with messages like “JESUS SAVES” or “JESUS 2020”.
Now faith leaders are speaking out in condemnation of those who would co-opt faith to justify storming the seat of American government.
Swift Condemnation
Rick Warren, an evangelical Christian, senior pastor at Saddleback Church, and a New York Times bestselling author, had one of the strongest condemnations for the events of January 6th, which he characterized as “terrorism”.
https://twitter.com/RickWarren/status/1346917979200475142
And he wasn’t the only Christian leader to condemn the mob. Russell Moore, president of the Southern Baptist Convention's Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, said in a statement that “Enough is enough… It will take decades to rebuild from the wreckage in this country. But, as Christians, we can start now—just by not being afraid to say what is objectively the truth. Joe Biden has been elected president.”
Other also joined in the chorus.
Presiding bishop of the Episcopal Church Rev. Michael Curry called it “a coup attempt”. Pat Robertson, host of The 700 Club, said a “madness” came upon President Trump.
Across the board, the reponse from Christian leadership has been to denounce the violence. But what about on the ground, as the riot was happening?
A Faith-Fueled Insurrection?
Many people who witnessed the Capitol riot noticed a strong undercurrent of religious self-righteousness apparent in the crowd. Some participants clearly felt that God had called them to be there, as evidenced by the signs and chants they brought along.
And it wasn't just laypersons who felt this way. In a Facebook post published just hours before people stormed into Congress, evangelical leader Franklin Graham called the results of the election into question and predicted that "God's judgment is coming."
In the aftermath of the rally-gone-wrong, others opined that religious belief was a stong motivator.
“I think that [the protestors] believe that God has a specific plan for this country, and that their vision for the country has been given to them by God,” said Andrew Whitehead, professor of sociology at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis.
And according to The Atlantic’s Jeffrey Goldberg, “the conflation of Trump and Jesus was a common theme at the rally,” citing numerous rallying cries heard at the rallies that seemed to equate President Trump with Jesus Christ, as well as anecdotal interviews, including with one man who said that “Donald Trump is in the Bible.”
Opportunity for Reflection
From their statements, it's plain that many faith leaders were horrified by the events they saw playing out. But a question remains: what now?
Before the dust had settled, evangelist Beth Moore sparked a new debate, this one about the behavior of believers – and indeed the very nature of faith itself.
What are your thoughts?
97 comments
-
Dave J
Any person who thinks that god has told them to commit insurrection is deluded. If they follow up on that and commit insurrection they should be arrested, tried, convicted and sent to prison.
-
T Kosse`
Personally I would have them all hung, drawn and quartered, They hide behind the cross and say they are good righteous Christians. They hide behind the American flag and say they are true Americans and Loyal Patriots but they are none of these things, They don't really give a damn about god or this country they are just white supremacist thugs traitor and insurrectionist. As for all you who voted for and supported Trump and the very people in the Capitol Building who are his sycophants enablers You all are just as guilty as well, You all turn a bind eye and deaf ear to everything that Trump and sycophants enablers said and done all whole time he and they are in office Not only did you all vote for him and his sycophants enablers you openly cheer them on for Four years!!!! So don't say I didn't think he was really that bad or I had no idea he would do something like this. Because that is all total BS!!!! You knew, you all just didn't give a DAMN!!!!
-
Carl Bernard Elfstrom
"Put your hand in the hand of the man who stilled the water. Put your hand in the hand of the man who calmed the sea. And take a look at yourself, and look at others differently, by putting your hand in the hand of the man from Galilee." I'm not even a Christian, but at this time, it sounds like a good idea to me. Blessed be!
-
-
-
Minister Mike
After two combat tours in Vietnam I thought I'd seen all I'd ever see that could bring tears to my eyes. Boy, was I wrong. Watching Americans storm the American Capitol hurts like nothing else every has.
Not blaming anyone, not pointing fingers. Just so sad that I have trouble getting out of bed, anymore. I wonder what I could have done differently that might have helped in some small way to prevent this.
-
Rev Hannah Grace
Minister Mike, I am also sad, and anxious about what is to come with more protests scheduled. But I try to hold onto hope during this time, hope that justice will prevail, the rioters will be arrested and charged, and those who are under the cult spell of Trump will wake up once he is no longer in office. I also pray to everyone's gods that Trump will never be allowed to run for any office again. Even in the story of Pandora's box, when she unleashed all the troubles of the world, at the bottom of the box was hope. Stay hopeful.
-
Dave J
It seems like they will all say they were under the imperious curse after Voldemort leaves office. Oh wait, that's fiction.
Or is it.
I really think that some of what we are hearing now is "I didn't think it was that bad." Really, after all the evidence?
"But he's a good christian." Really, and in what form of actual christianity is it ok to lie, cheat, steal, and "Grab 'em by the P**sy."?
-
Dave J
Comment removed by user.
-
-
Catherine
Same.
-
-
Paul J. Fumero
Political Evangelisms is the same as the GOP using religion and Jesus name for their political ambitions. Didn't he throw the money changers out of the Temple?
-
John P Maher
I SAY ALL THE ABOVE IS CORRECTLY SAID, EXCEPT RELIGION and STATE MUST BE SEPERATED ALWAYS !
-
Minister Carlos Ricardo Walls
I cannot condone this horrible behavior.What happened in the nations capitol was absolutely appalling.Insanity has come full circle globally.What has happened to the greatess country country in the industrialized world?
-
china mayhew
really, too little too late.the fact that so much of the christian community backed 45 from day one is appalling. this, oopsy attitude they now have is almost comical when viewed next to their hypocrytical direct and tacit support of this president from the moment he announced his decision to run. they have aided and abetted this insurrection from the beginning by praising and enabling a godless toxic narcissist to the point even he is convinced he is the chosen one. now some wish to step back and wash their hands of their responsibility while others continue to double and triple down, still insisting they are privy to the ineffable plan of their creator. they are still willing to support behavior that belongs to the one who chose to reign in hell rather than serve in heaven and that truly makes one wonder do they actually comprehend what they've read in that bible they like to thump
-
Giovanni T.Coleman
The attack on the Capital is a disgrace to this country. Violence invokes violence and doesn't solve anything. People from other countries came here because we don't tolerate destructive mob behavior. God is love and peace for all. A divided country is a weak country. Very dangerous people, we must pray that this comes to a peaceful end.
-
Woodrow
Judge not lest you be judged. The Father warned us of the consequences. Pay attention Faith people.
Matthew 7 Do not judge and criticize and condemn others, so that you may not be judged and criticized and condemned yourselves. For just as you judge and criticize and condemn others, you will be judged and criticized and condemned, and in accordance with the measure you [use to] deal out to others, it will be dealt out again to you(in other words, DOUBLED). Why do you stare from without at the very small particle that is in your brother’s eye but do not become aware of and consider the beam of timber that is in your own eye? BYITNOJ
-
Rev Hannah Grace
And you think Jesus didn't judge the Scribes and Pharisees when he called them vipers and condemned them for their actions? There is a difference between being judgmental of people and passing judgement on their actions. Why do we have judges and courts? Because people do bad things and need to be judged, and convicted and imprisioned too. I don't think that passage means what you think it means.
-
Lori Mongillo
I know it it doesn't. Thank you Rev HG. Right on.
-
flugo
Very 'grace'fully done! You've explained the 'judging' issue quite well! Luke 17:14 we're told to 'rebuke'; and in John 7:24 Jesus told us how to 'judge'. Life has countless legitimate opportunities to evaluate, appraise ,judge, and discern behavior and actions without being judgmental of the person!
-
-
Carl Bernard Elfstrom
That sounds like it could be related to the law of karma, and many of us Wiccans believe that whatever we do, be it bad or good, comes back to us threefold, but I haven't ever heard of it being twofold.
-
-
Daniel Gray
So where was all of this bo-haha when Swalwell was screwing around with a Chinese spy in his office and allowing her to have access to his work computer? Where was all this bo-haha when pelosi tried to enact a political coup (sedition/treason/and unconstitutional according to the DOJ) when she tried to get the Military to take away the nuclear football? Where was all this bo-haha when maxine waters instructed her followers (and yes there is video tape of this) to harass and chase out any Trump supporter or administration member, of any business or eatery they are seen in and to do it by any means available (doning this to a government official is a federal felony according to the Federal Workers Protection Act).
I find it very amusing how one sided these click bait claims from the Monastery are lately.
-
Ilmenheru Terikson
Typical whataboutism from a far right whacko who openly supports groups like the proud boys while not grasping there is no group called ANTIFA.
FYI I am the ANTIFA grandmaster of the universe. I know all I see all, I am right there behind you breathing on your neck right now! MUAHAHHWHWHAHAHAHAHH!
-
Daniel Gray
Whats wrong Turkey? Mad because I proved that you and people who think like you are worse then what happened at the Capitol?
And Where did I ever say I supported the proud Boys, that came from you and its an utter lie.
And sorry child but Antifa IS REAL according to the FBI https://thehill.com/policy/national-security/516911-fbi-director-wray-calls-antifa-a-real-thing
You really should know what you are babbling about before flapping your gums.
-
Ilmenheru Terikson
As always yu can only link to far right actual fake news that has nothing to do with the real world, just cherry picked bits of this and that to support a fear mongering narrative.
If you cant link a internationally respected U.S. news group like the NYT or Wapo, than you may as well not bother.
-
Daniel Gray
NYT and WAPO respected? What are you drinking? The ONLY reason the NYT is still in business is because a mexican Billionaire took a liking to them and is funding them. If that had not happened then they as well as the Boston Globe (which the NYT bought) would be extinct like the dodo) And as for WaPo? PUH-LEASE....these are the ones who are facing a multi BILLION dollar lawsuit for slander from a teenager who they tried to destroy with edited video.
Try again child, but this time at the very least try to add truth to your myths you constantly post.
-
-
-
-
Carl Bernard Elfstrom
You're right, child, but Pelosi and the others didn't start a riot at the capitol, child-child.
-
Daniel Gray
whats wrong Carlie...I didnt link to any of your imaginary sites. And this is the best you can do is to actually lie? No wonder you get blasted in every post and thread.
-
-
Reverend JD
Name your God.
The one who would condone the violence and murder at the capital. The one who wouldn't want the power to attack & kill millions removed from a narcissistic insurrectionist madman? This would also have to be a God who accepts the separation of children from desperate families fleeing tyranny. One who leaves the needy to fend for themselves. One who ignores ignores the sick. One who has no issue with (thankfully) mostly failed attempts stealing money from the elderly and infirmed, to put more in the pockets of the money changers?
Pretty sure that's outside any definition of Christianity or any other loving god I've ever heard of, so I ask again, NAME YOUR GOD!
-
Daniel Gray
Ever hear about God giving mankind FREE WILL? meaning he allows them to make their own choices.
-
Carl Bernard Elfstrom
In saying "their own choices" child, it sounds like you're saying you aren't one of us. Thanks for finally telling the truth, even though it was only by accident. And don't forget to take your meds today, child. They will relieve you of your delusions of grandeur.
-
Daniel Gray
Sorry charline, but God gave mankind the gift of free will, so say the Jewish and Muslum and Christian faiths. You have a problem with that then talk to him.
And nobody needs to know you are on medication and have delusions of grandeur, that sounds more like a personal problem between you and your mental health physician
-
Ilmenheru Terikson
Again DG you invalidate yourself by pushing insular thinking here. As a secular church we at the ULC do not acknowledge Free Will as some inherent cosmic truth, and in fact support modern science that suggests it very much does not. People are basically just like the computers we build in our own image. We are all basically hardware and software. And our software is constantly being updated by the input it gets from its sensory feed.
No one here at the ULC cares what any specific faith group thinks when that thinking is trying to push archaic nonsense onto modern society.
-
Daniel Gray
No turkey, YOU invalidate yourself as each time you open your mouth you get blasted by facts and then all you do is whine and try and spin. Facts are facts and you cant change them no matter how hard you try or wish you could.
-
-
-
-
-
-
George Hook
While I agree with some of what you have said none rise to the level of an all out assault on the government in a treasonous attempt to keep your a man (not a god) in office.
-
-
Carl Bernard Elfstrom
Has anyone seen flugo? I hope he didn't dematerialize.
-
Ilmenheru Terikson
I am like 99% certain Danial Gray is their latest sock. The way the poster likes to use a childish name insult based on the poster they are insulting the name of name( though often at best only using the same starting letter, often no real rhyme or reason beyond) is very akin to the poster we have seen over the years post under names like Flugo and a few others.
-
Daniel Gray
No that would be you and your buddy Carl who both lie more then the strip rug that was just laid in the sanctuary
-
-
-
Clay Serenbetz
In my opinion, all of the insurrectionists committed felonies. During the commission of these felonies people died, including a police officer. All jurisdictions provide for a felony murder charge when anyone dies during the commission of a felony. This is true whether or not you were the direct cause. In my opinion, all the insurrectionists must be tried for felony murder, in addition to their other felonies. See DC Code Sections 22-2101 et seq. That calls for a 30 year sentence.
-
Carl Bernard Elfstrom
Ground control to Major Tom : It looks like we're ready for another article.
-
Ian MacDonald Shaw
Tuck Frump.
-
Catherine Ann Benzinger
“With or without religion, you would have good people doing good things and evil people doing evil things. But for good people to do evil things, that takes religion.” ― Steven Weinberg
-
John D. Partin
Jesus Christ was a good person and didn't do evil because of religion or use religion as an excuse to do evil. Gandhi was a good person and didn't use religion as an excuse to do evil. The same for Buddha, Lao-tzu, Saint Francis of Assisi, and many others. Those religious people who used religion as an excuse to do evil (Pharisees, Inquisitors, witch burners, etc.) were those who were already inclined toward doing evil and if they hadn't been religious, would have been Stalinists conducting purges, Nazis persecuting and killing Jews, or part of anything else that let them act out the evil inside them. There are people who do good, no matter what or how much evil is around them, as Lot in the city of Sodom and Christian martyrs in ancient Rome, who died rather than sacrifice to the gods, and Saint Maximilian Kolbe in Auschwitz, did. And there are people who do evil, no matter what or how much good is around them, as Jack the Ripper, serial killers, Charles Manson, Richard Speck, Ted Bundy, John Wayne Gacy, and other murderers did and do.
-
-
Daniel J. Trebas
Jesus could NOT have been supporting the insurrectionist who rioted at the Capitol. A little know rumor has it that there were many followers if one of the thief's crucified with Jesus and they believed the thief was the one who was supposed to come back in three days. SOooo....for YEARS they protested against the disciples of Jesus that, "They STOLE the resurrection!". Okay....that was all made up. But a little levity can help too.
-
Mary Elizabeth Sanderson
Trump Thugs who have nothing to do with the values of our Bible are entering politics. They will be judged.
-
Douglas Robert Spindler
This is like the 1960s all over again. Remember all of the violence? And how the government and police over reacted killing innocent students? Just like in the 1960s when the government is so corrupt dishonest to the citizens they represent the only solution was protesting and violence.
-
Carl Bernard Elfstrom
Some of the best first memories I have of the sixties 8s of attending Jack And Jill nursery school , starting when I was two, in 1965. For the first time ever I saw a naked girl while there. I stormed into the bathroom one day without knocking,like an insurrectionist, and there she was, the toddler of my dreams. And I just stood there for a minute or two, and then turned to face the sink, and started having a conversation with my magick fairy, who only I could see and hear. Needless to say, that little girl ran out of there as quickly as she could. After that, I always knocked on the door. So maybe if Nancy Pelosi and the other old girls get naked nobody will ever barge into the capital again, with or without their magick fairies.
-
-
Robert J Giammarco
I'm floored by reading these post shows me how close minded we are. That MOST, if not all see it only ONE way. The RAT'S way. You all must listen and tune into CNN, ABC, CBS,etc., because IMHO you are delusional. Those that stormed the Capital had infultrated the group, and PAID for by Soros. They WERE BLM and ANTIFA members. This is EXACTLY what they do. You are all going to tell me that these rioters were SMART enough to take doucuments and LAPTOPS? Hell NO. That was CLEARLY a MILITARY operation. I'm totally suprised that you so called MILLITARY guys don't see this? You must have missed that class while in training. Clearly, radical insurgents Do NOT take time to gather intel. They are only out to DESTROY stuff. As they have been doing for many months in many of our fine cities and States.You all need to wake up. TRUMP has been the ONLY President to keep his promises. Stating that he is hateful is untrue. You all are afraid to KNOW or see the TRUTH. WAKE up. Can't you all see what is also happening around the globe? I guess not. Like many of the RAT'S, you all need to get you heads out of your asses. Because From what I read here, most of you are unwilling to see the TRUTH. GOD help us ALL. And GOD BLESS AMERICA. Because if this fine Country goes to the RAT'S and their socialist ways, say GOODBYE to FREEDOM! You Military guys should understand that the most. You fought for our FREEDOM, now you'tre just giving up, and Think that by having TRUMP leave, all will be OK? Think again my friend's. This is just the start of COMMUNISM coing here to our shores. What has Twitter, Facebook, Google doing to our FREE SPEACH. You ALL need to RE-THINK your thoughts. GOD be with us.
-
Dave J
Breaking News: The Japanese Government has new evidence it was actually Antifa who attacked Pearl Harbor.
That's about as accurate as your comment.
-
Robert J Giammarco
Your assessment makes no sense . You no not what you say. Have a nice day.
-
Robert J Giammarco
Think man. The TIME line of the acts does NOT adhear to what happened. It was all staged. The FBI, Capital police as well as the Sgt at arms of BOTH house KNEW of the forthcoming attacks. YET, the RATS did NOTHING o prevent suck acts caused by BLM and Antifa.
-
Ilmenheru Terikson
Honestly RJG your rants are not really worth responding to at this point, but what the hell I am sipping a morning cuppa and waking p so why not.
You are talking like a crazy person, and that is putting it mildly. You are even in how you write somehow manage to convey a tone that makes me think you likely suffering from severe mental health issues. Paranoia and delusions of conspiracy and persecution of yourself or those around you for starters.
Oh and Jesus was a communist, just saying.
-
Robert J Giammarco
It's unfortunate to hear about your mental condition, your paranoia and delusion. You, like most have no concept of what is really happining in America. Go enjoy your cuppa. Just make sure you don't burn yourself. Have a nice day!
-
Ilmenheru Terikson
I am unsure what your response's point was, as it seems you have little better then childish flippancy to respond to genuine concern for your mental well being. The fact you continue to espouse classic mental illness such as suggesting you are somehow aware of some grand far sweep conspiracy only those like you are bale to discern is enough on its own to label you mentally ill. You do fathom that right?
The things you fear are not real, the things you think are not true, the things you feel are invalid.
-
Robert J Giammarco
Wise up sir. I believe YOU are the one with mental issues. You espouse words that make NO sense. Just look at what is going on. Say all you want. YOU have NO idea of what is occurring in AMERICA. YOU, as others see only one issue, listen to the fake news, and BELIEVE EVRYTHING THEY SAY. Look beyound that. YOU need to wake up. YOU are the ONE who keeps it going. I'll fight to the end to defend myself, just like you, and others. YOU believe what you feel. We are intitled to our opinions, YOU have yours, and I, like many others have mine, GOD be with us all. ONLY a CHILD, such as yourself keeps whinning. Have an enjoyable weekend.
-
Ilmenheru Terikson
Oh me oh my, not only do you continue to write in a ranting style that does nothing to suggest other then a emotional unstable soul, but you then seem very confused about the nature of what the christian god wishes of his followers. A truly devout follower of The Christ would never even in defense of themselves and their loved ones, raise even their voice in protest to harm being done to them, rather they would drop to their knees and pray to God to forgive the sins of those harming them, and forgive them for their part in the actions of the sinner.
I do not base anything I do on feelings, feelings are not facts and do not ever matter. Again you by your word usage show yourself to believe in conspiracy, if you believe in conspiracy you are suffering from mental illness, it is that simple.
Your feelings, your opinions, your fears do not ever matter. There is not one bit of factual data you can offer forth to support the false narrative of the Drumpf cult.
You are not a human, you do not warrant human considerations, from this moment on all you say is akin to an upset puppy.
Please consider seeking local therapists out for aid in dealing with your inability to discern reality from fantasy.
-
Robert J Giammarco
Wise up snowflake, You and many others have NO idea just what this adminiatration has in store for you. Think yoir txes will go down> Think again. Have a nice day with the Biden/Harris crime families.
-
Ilmenheru Terikson
Again this classic delusion of thinking you are in the know of some secret most cant see the truth of, is textbook paranoid conspiracy delusion.
I dont pay taxes, I am a minister in the U.S. I mean why do you think i got ordained in the first place buddy?
I live in a house willed to me by a congregant, it is now my church, the property tax exempt, All bills are paid by my followers, This is the way.
I for one feel that Biden if nothing else has done the time to get the job. Id think most would agree all jobs should come with annual raises and the odd promotion. The guy has been working in the office for like 40 years. He can sit in the CEO chair for a few years at this point and just do the job without worry about keeping it in 4 years.
And Harris, really not a big fan of her political track record in crime especially. But at the very least she acts as a real morale booster for women and poc in the country, and The Force knows they need it.
-
Robert J Giammarco
Sorry that you are a sick little puppy....
-
-
-
Carl Bernard Elfstrom
It looks like they (and about 25,000 troops) will be making up for it at the inauguration.
-
-
-
-
Rev Hannah Grace
I'll pray for you in your cult mindset. It is very sad that you repeat conspiracy theories with no basis in fact. Have you ever tried using Snopes? It might be a first step on the road back to truth. The insurrectionists were ALL Trump supporters (you seem to like using CAPS a lot). And they were incited to riot by him, and so he was impeached today for that. Please, please wake up.
-
Carl Bernard Elfstrom
Giammarco, va culo!!!
-
T Kosse`
No te refieres a Carl Bernard Elfstrom, Giammarco, realmente eres un culo.
-
Robert J Giammarco
Please speak english. This is AMERICA. Funny how all the illegals want to come here for a better life, lthey claim However You refuse to assimilate and continue to mouth off your idiotic rhetoric ways.How sad that you, and others on here arel so foolish. All you want is to take away frm Americans, and demand FREE stuff. Well, now you have your crimial crime family to give it to you. This blog is foolish, like the sick people you are, that you can not, nor will not, see the corruption before the eyes that GOD gave us. My the Mercy of GOD be with us.
-
Carl Bernard Elfstrom
With a name like Giammarco I thought you might know a few nice words in Italian. My mistake. My mother's maiden name is Pistone, but I don't think she knows any more Italian than you. I'm a fourth generation Galvestonian on both sides of my family. That is American citizens who are from Galveston, Texas. By the way, my last name is Swedish, and they don't speak Italian in Sweden, iether. However, it won't make us any less American to learn a foreign language, or two. I'm also a staunch Republican who voted for Biden, and have a strong feeling he's going to be the best president we've ever had. I'll be the first to admit that I sometimes get so worked up over the opinions on this blog that I sometimes sling snot. I won't apologize for that though, for it seems to be something we're all good at. Nevertheless, "Have a nice day!"
-
Robert J Giammarco
Hi Carl. I do. However I try my best to be decent. Slining foul words or and derrogatory words to each solves nothing. Sorry that you claim you are a staunch Republican, yet you are really a RAT indisguise. I just trying to get people to THINK, not just what I say, but to see what's going on behibd the scenes. So, In your opinion you think its OK now that Biden signed an executive order that boy's can join a girl's varisety team, yet, Girl's can NOT join a boy's team. That's real fair to our daughter's. WHY? No matter how much a boy/girl want's to change their sex, deep inside, you are either X or Y, that never change!. You NEVER elimiante that. Sending BILLION'S of taxpayer's money, to give to WHO is oK for the RATS, after all they protected CHINA ,who KILLED many world wide, but that's OK to you and some of the others on here. It's OK for many ILLEGASL to come here. What about those who came legally? Sorry that you, and so many others just mouth off because you didn't like TRUMP. Wait till you start paying higher ELECTRIC, GAS, FOOD, etc. the extra monies we get in our pay, due to the payroll tax exception is taken away, and NOW YOU will earn less, If that's all OK, it's only because you listen to the fake news. Biden speach, if listen to was so poorly composed of short two, three words. This is OK for a world leader? Shutting down the pipe line where hundreds will lose their jobs. Stop producing oil on federal land, why? We are energy rich for the first time, now he stops that and cripples jobs? This is fine with you all?]
You all have a good lfe as you struggle through life to make a good life for your families. Then again, many, like you don't really CARE. Have a good day!
-
Carl Bernard Elfstrom
I didn't say I agree with everything sleepy Joe says and does. If I did I'd have to be a democrat, and a goddam Catholic like they tried to raise me. And to Biden will be the President ever isn't saying much, for I've never thought get highly of politicians in general, nor would I care to ever be associated with any of them. However, Biden is bound to be a lot better than Trump. I don't think iether one of them are honest, though. I wouldn't be surprised if behind the scenes they were best buddies, and have even swapped spit in the shower. The only president who ever told the truth, and he only did it once, was George Washington, when he admitted to chopping down a cherry tree. And that's only because they suspected him of it. But how many did he chop down that he didn't admit to. I knew him in a previous incarnation. He didn't even like cherry pie, but I shared many a hemp pie with him and Martha, made from herbs he grew in his garden. And it helps to wash it down with mushroom tea. His cows supplied us with plenty of those. Ciou, cumpare!
-
-
-
T Kosse`
Really the native population didn't speaks Spanish, English and French un-till the later European settlers came to this land taught them to speak Spanish, English and French, then later force them to abandon their native language, their culture their heritage their very way of life to assimilate into the European culture and way of life. As for me my father's family was here long before the state they settled in was even a state was in fact still a territory. Whether or not someone speak English is not a true indication of a person citizenship or immigration statue. So if by being an American and assimilating maybe we should all learn the true NATIVE language and their culture their heritage their very way of life.
-
-
-
T Kosse`
Carl Bernard Elfstrom, Lo que realmente quieres decir es: Giammarco, realmente eres un culo
-
Robert J Giammarco
Same to you today!
-
Carl Bernard Elfstrom
It's not just today rufiano, we'll have it everyday, as we send you on your way, with your idiotic rants and raves.
-
Carl Bernard Elfstrom
You forgot to put a comma after the word you, RJ. Just saying.
-
-
-
-
Catherine
I agree with Woodrow, though I don't feel faith or religion has much to do with current events. Religion is a tool in a political party's toolbox. It is up to the individual to choose not to be a tool. Isn't our best reflected in how we raise up ourselves and support each other in chaos and crises? Not how we can bring each other down?
For decades, republicans and democrats partnered to achieve mostly short term results. Example: the recent COVID relief money, and future relief money, spent on Amazon or in big box stores mostly goes to China or its investors, many of whom are Americans. Laws that allowed that to occur came from lawmakers in both parties.
An aside, I have nothing against people in China. I think the majority of people in the world are decent. Isn’t it the uber aggressive who make the rest of us wonder “what just happened?” over and over?
Perhaps these past few centuries, there has been a natural evolutionary process that brought us here? America's founding fathers could not possibly have imagined the monopolizing conglomerates that developed.
All that said, when political parties no longer function as a check and balance against one becoming more dominant than another, we are eyeball deep in horse biscuits. Our baby country consumed by money grubbing wolves.
I also think the fact that the primary parties are eating their own warrants attention. And if either party cared a tiddly wink about Jesus’ teachings, good faith, or integrity, none of this would be happening. I cannot find evidence that any current politician exemplifies the teachings of Jesus. So, I reiterate faith has little to do with current events. And I think Jesus, Father Sky or Sky Father, Allah, Buddha, Confucius, Yahweh and the rest, none of them would be part of this.
-
Mark Hannon
In the middle 1980's I liked to spend an early evening listening to talk radio. There were two financial advisors and one doctor that had hour long programs and answered callers questions. Then in the early 1990's they began to air a new talk show with Rush Limbaugh as the host. I thought he definitely crossed the line when talking about liberal politicians. At about the same time I would stop at a local Burger King to have a snack and read the paper before work. There was a man who met a woman there that I would say hello to. The man had signs on his business truck saying that he loved his country but feared his government. There has been nearly no compromising since then. The Moral Majority or Pat Robertson and the way the Tea Party interrupted ACA townhalls all made me feel that the country was heading toward this incivility.
-
Carl Bernard Elfstrom
You're right, child, but Pelosi and the others didn't start a riot at the capitol, child-child.
-
Carl Bernard Elfstrom
Although I'm totally against the insurrection of our capital in Washington DC ,I refuse to be judge, jury, and executioner. Two wrongs don't make a right. Government and law enforcement officials are much better qualified to ensure that justice prevails. I'm going to keep living like I always do (until I die), as peacefully as I can, without filling my head with thoughts of vengeance, and worry, which will only bring me down.
-
Gerald Gene Duggins
To begin with why was the capital off limits? It belongs to the people and has seating for the people to watch what their Representatives are doing, when I was there in the 60's it was open for the people as it had always been. 2nd point people keep saying 5 people died because of this action, well one was shot by the police without due cause, three died of medical conditions unrelated to the event and one policeman was killed by the action, so in reality the action only caused 1 police officer to die. Now we get down to a time line factor from the time President Trump finished his speech until the police opened the gates and the doors to the Capital and the Antifa group that was there rushed in it would have been impossible for people at the Trump speech to get through the crowd and to the Capital, the people that rushed were not at the presidents speech they were already at the Capital. This was all laid out in intelligence reports the day before and the number of police were cut in half. This was clearly a planned event to throw back at President Trump, by the swamp.
-
Richard Lee Cornell
That was Biden's Reichstag. As someone said that the first ones to crash the gates had goals to meet. Crowbars. If the Speaker of the House would have let the police use force to stop the mob things would have been different. Last year with BLM the Capitol Police wanted better re-enforce front doors, gated windows and closed all doors when a session was going on. The police wanted 12 ga. shot guns with bean bags Cattle prods. French tear gas.. Re-enforce hall way doors with sliding bars to block the hall ways. They want a lot to protect the building, but the Speaker of the House said no. Now that needs to be change.
-
Daniel Gray
Awww seems I hit a nerve when I had a cowardly poster try and claim I was right wing or supported keeping Trump in office. neither of which is true, I support the law. And as I have stated more times then I care to count I have been a REGISTERED INDEPENDENT for well over 40 years, so the childish insult does not mean a whole lot except to the child who posted it, and then had their post removed because of it
-
T Kosse`
You claim not to be a right wing supporter of Trump by saying you're registered Independent which really doesn't prove anything, since those who are registered Independent have voted for trump. And your silence on what Trump and the very people in the Capitol Building who are his sycophants enablers have said and done and still saying and doing and your parroting of lies and falsehoods and conspiracy theory put forth by trump and the very people in the Capitol Building who are his sycophants enablers and his most loyal supporter say a lot about what type a person you truly are. All this from you the man child Emperor of childish insult
-
Daniel Gray
I have NEVER said I was a supporter of Trump Kossee, I have ALWAYS said I am a supporter of the law.
And I can see that the law is calling you out as you are lying in trying to claim otherwise.
Sorry but nothing you have said is based in face so please stop trying the spin and smoke and mirrors as it just make you look more foolish then before.
-
T Kosse`
Well your silence in condemning what Trump, his sycophants enablers in the Capitol Building and his most loyal supporters has said and done and continue to say and do and your parroting of lies and falsehoods and conspiracy theory's put forth by trump and the very people in the Capitol Building who are his sycophants enablers and by his most loyal supporters say otherwise. Really! who interpretation of the laws are you a supporter of, because you seem to be very selective about which laws you choose to follow and which law would that be, that is "calling me out" as you say.
-
Daniel Gray
Sorry Kossee, but there is nothing to condemn him for. Not once during the Video of the speech did he tell anyone to go and riot or go attack the capitol building. So how exactly can you condemn him for something he didnt do? The only one lying here and spreading falsehoods is clearly you
You really need to stop getting your info from comedy central Kossee, it is making you look more foolish then you make yourself look with each error filled post.
-
T Kosse`
You have just proven my point with your statement "Not once during the Video of the speech did he tell anyone to go and riot or go attack the capitol building". When everyone who isn't a Trump loyalists knows that to be totally false. There are several statement that he made on TV and twitter that incited these traitorous and seditious mob. That why Trump was banned from twitter, facebook/Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat, Twitch and Shopify that why he been impeached and why he looking at felony charges. plus everything he has said and done over last four years of his term of presidency. But you being a total Trump supporter and loyalist refuse to acknowledge and condemn his actions You and other just like you even go as far and condoning everything he has done either by openly cheering him on or by your total silence and not condemning his actions.
-
Daniel Gray
I just proved that yet again you dont know what you are talking about Kossee as the video of the speech shows clearly that Trump NEVER incited anyone, unlike what you have been claiming.
You really must like being proved wrong as it happens to you on a daily basis
-
Ilmenheru Terikson
Sure except ya know he was impeached a 2nd time exactly for what your claiming he didnt do. Even if the sycophants in the right wing dont convict, it doesnt change the fact he was already deemed to have caused it. You saying no he didnt does not have an impact on the facts or how it will be written in the history books.
-
Daniel Gray
no sorry he was charged...but in the first one he was found NOT GUILTY and the 2nd one is illegal and unconstitutional as per Article 1 Section 3 Clause 6 and Article 2 Section 4 of the US Constitution. Not to mention that it requires ALL Senators to be seated and have a vote and no they cannot have it done by proxy. Last time I looked it takes 2/3rds of a senate vote to remove a sitting president (hint, he isnt a sitting president) and the US Supreme Court Chief Justice is constitutionally required to run the trial, not some wanna be like Lehey. This alone makes it illegal and unconstitutional. And Trump can appeal this to the US Supreme Court which will have no other option then to overturn it and wipe it out.
Want to try your myth again?
-
T Kosse`
Yeah Daniel Gray you can just keep on living in your own little world of alternative facts and fake news
-
Daniel Gray
you seem to do that on a regular basis Kossee, thats why people keep burning you in every thread you post in
-
Daniel Gray
Kossee, you have done this daily since you were born so why you are out telling your personal problems is just way TMI.
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Tabitha
Anyone who hasn’t seen this coming is blind. One more step to Gilead
-
Hymon T. Johnson
Violence and hatred show up, but they represent our lower animal natures, and misrepresent our higher human and spiritual natures. Neither have a place among the children of the One Most High.
From Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr:: “DARKNESS CANNOT DRIVE OUT DARKNESS; ONLY LIGHT CAN DO THAT, HATE CANNOT DRIVE OUT HATE; ONLY LOVE CAN DO THAT. HATE MULTIPLIES HATE, VIOLENCE MULTIPLIES VIOLENCE, AND TOUGHNESS MULTIPLIES TOUGHNESS IN A DESCENDING SPIRAL OF DESTRUCTION…. THE CHAIN REACTION OF EVIL – HATE BEGETTING HATE (AND) WARS PRODUCING MORE WARS MUST BE BROKEN.”
-
David Bartlett
Religion should never be used as a pretext for revolution other than for the purpose of obtaining the right to worship. The traitors who attempted to overthrow the congress for refusing to violate the constitution belong in prison. Every one of them who does not get the death penalty should drop to their knees in gratitude first to the judge who pronounces their sentence then to whichever deity they worship.
-
Carl Bernard Elfstrom
Do you mean like burn the bibles in a bonfire? That sounds like a good idea to me, but I still think it's best to use it for rolling papers. Iether way, it will still go up in smoke. I guess I'd just rather toke it up. That makes Christianity so much easier to to laugh at, than cry about all the evil Christians have caused.
-
-
Carl A. Hankins
No religions have ever stopped a war just like the army's have never went home. If we start acting like Rome again since some think the world has been conquered. Will the Bible become an end time warning to keep the fires burning ? I've been told by imigrants who have been here long enough for the veneer to fall off that this is just a warring country. What sort of change will change their minds ? Hopefully not harletry.
-
Fannie Jones
Iam saddened by some of the comments some of you have posted. Specifically the ones that attack others comments by calling names now that in itself I feel is very childish. In my studying the Bible last night I was reading the book of Matthew chapter 24 and for the first time reading this chapter and thinking about what all was happening in this world I was afraid. As it talked about things to come and to happen in the last days of this earth. Jesus was asked by his disciples what sign would be given to know of His return. Jesus explained to them then what was to take place in the last days and now it is unfolding before our very eyes. Now what happened at our capital was right out wrong. No matter how you look at it. I'm not gonna bash Trumph or Biden because for me no matter who the president is I only have one King and his name is Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior.
-
Jeffrey Lawrence Brown
Amen
-
Ilmenheru Terikson
You violate the secular nature of the ULC by posting such extreme insular rhetoric. If you cant understand that your belief is a personal thing and not based on some cosmic truth all must submit to, you will find little in the way of a warm welcome here.
-
-
TJ
Unfortunately this is what happens when there is not a clear separation of church and state. Another unfortunate thing that this showed is not only how we are divided as a nation but also as a but that our faith (no matter your beliefs) is waivering. Hate begets, hate. Love begets, love. Many will say not in this lifetime, but I assure you that it's possible to be loving and most will leave you to you beliefs and opinions. We need to respect other beliefs and differences in general. The whole belittling those that hold office are appointed. Oh, and yes by votes from the people but more greatly by God. The bible also states ( I'm paraphrasing) that those in power are there for Gods plan and we should obey the laws set forth but just as with God's word, but we will not always agree. Free will is an amazing tool we have in our boxes however so is the right to love one another as we are all brothers and sisters.
-
Ilmenheru Terikson
Free Will is part of insular belief in an archaic and ignorant era of human society. It does not exist. People are not gifted with some divine cosmic spark that sets us above all other life.
The ULC is a secular ministry that does not hold to the idea that a belief structure is other then a personal thing. Your attempting to push yours as some cosmic truth will see your posts more often then not reported and removed, and the secular minded in general giving you a cold shoulder here.
-
Religious superiority has been simmering beneath the surface of the "peace and love" of Christianity since its beginnings. Trump supporters, especially the ones who see righteousness in his administration, have been fed lies and hatred most of their lives by family and preachers, and Trump knows how to tap into that hatred. Those who feed the illusions are part of the problem. These people cannot, and will not, learn to think it through. Rising above religious superiority, which was never what Jesus was teaching, is a difficult psychological achievement. Most cannot do it or see the truth. All they can see is their own frustrations, anger and wants. Hatred and division has been the quest of our president. If you don't see things his way, you are worthless. This is a mentally ill person.