Public Religion is Making a Comeback

 


If the term "morality" is about religion, religion is coming back. Not long ago, I searched the New York Times for articles about religion. Religion was mostly absent. Religion seemed one of those things that had once been popular, some had tried to keep in play, but its time had passed. Some may remember that Obama tried to use his faith to illustrate that he identified with those who were in it. His effort fell flat and he stopped bringing it up. The Obamas resigned from their church in Chicago, the preacher was obnoxious, and did not join another. 

In recent years, the Times has brought back religion in a big way. Columnists who discuss it are given top billing. It's sort of strange that the NY Times is about "news" and these time worn arguments about what is true and not true in the imaginations of people is again considered "news."

Of course, it was "news" when Pres. W. Bush said his invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq had Biblical justifications. It is news today when Sec. Hegseth carries on about his role in God's mission. It's news also when Texas Senate Candidate Talarico says the views of the religious right are bull$hit. 

A public religion of morality is bubbling up from bombs and the killing of innocent people in Gaza, Iran and all the other places drones are now going. When I read polls today about topics like the bombing I think I detect about 40% in the U.S. think bombing Iran off the map is moral and 60% do not. Other European countries must track about the same.   

I've written here often the Christianity that will survive longer than any other is the liberal branch. I'm seldom right about these things but that may be what is happening now.

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