Churches Part Of New Strategy
Today, let’s talk about a pressing issue that surfaces during election season: the intersection of politics and the pulpit, particularly in black churches. This year, as President Biden and his party face potential electoral challenges, some predominantly black churches have become stages for political campaigns rather than spiritual gatherings.
Recently, President Biden visited Mount Airy Church of God in Philadelphia, a predominantly black church, as part of his efforts to boost his support among black voters following a poor debate performance. This visit, on July 7, has drawn criticism from those who see it as an inappropriate blend of religion and politics.
Critics argue that black churches are too willing to politicize their sanctuaries, offering their platforms to Democratic politicians in exchange for recognition and influence. This practice, they contend, undermines the spiritual integrity of the church, transforming it into a venue for political gain rather than a house of worship.
Historically, this is not a new phenomenon. In March, disgraced former Governor Andrew Cuomo sought redemption and a return to political relevance through a black congregation in The Bronx.
Similarly, back in 1998, Rev. Jesse Jackson offered vague exonerations for then-President Bill Clinton following his sexual misconduct scandals.
The pattern of Democratic politicians adopting a Southern drawl or altering their speech when addressing black congregations has also been noted. Hillary Clinton did this in 2008, and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez emulated a Southern Baptist preacher in 2019 at Rev. Al Sharpton’s National Action Network.
During his visit to Mount Airy, Biden delivered a campaign speech filled with promises aimed at improving the economic and healthcare conditions for black Americans. Bishop J. Louis Felton of Mount Airy justified Biden’s presence by stating, “We are firm believers in [the] separation of church and state. We are separated but we are not divorced. Since we are not divorced, we still have visitation rights. The president has a right to be here.”
This justification, however, has not sat well with everyone. Critics argue that while the bishop professes a belief in the separation of church and state, he simultaneously allows the church to be used for political purposes, thus creating a double standard.
The broader concern is that in trying to serve both spiritual and political masters, these churches might be compromising their core mission. When a bishop repeatedly aligns the church with one political party, it raises questions about which master is truly being served.