A Call to Christians in a Time of Crisis for Faith and Democracy

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As we enter Lent, hundreds of the nation’s Christian leaders are calling on Christians across the country to speak out and take action at this time of crisis for democracy and faith. We are living under a violent, increasingly authoritarian government, and it claims to be acting in the name of Jesus.

In their open letter, these leaders commit to concrete actions, including standing with immigrants targeted by unjust policies, rejecting political violence in all forms, defending the country’s voting rights and democratic norms, and pursuing peace, truth, and justice. Citing scripture, the letter highlights Jesus’ teachings on love and peace, and rejects the use of religion to justify exclusion, racism, or domination—calling on Christians to resist the manipulation of faith for political gain.

I went to the White House on Ash Wednesday for the release of this letter. We hope that Christian leaders, clergy and lay people, will sign the letter and encourage others to do so. Two thousand people signed it in the first 24 hours. Together, we can make this Lent a time of repentance—turning around —for ourselves individually and for our nation.