This week on Where Do We Go From Here? EDJ sits down with content creator, podcaster, and author April Ajoy to talk about her new book Star-Spangled Jesus: Christian Nationalism in America.

April grew up in purity culture as a pastor’s kid, surrounded by the metaphors we all know too well—chewed-up gum, licked cupcakes, torn roses. But as her journey unfolded, she began creating satire on TikTok, co-hosting the Tim and April Show, and now writing a book that helps us understand how Christian nationalism took hold in America.

In this conversation, you’ll hear:

April’s personal deconstruction journey, from purity culture to politics.
What Christian nationalism actually is, and how it has shaped American evangelicalism.
Why purity culture and Christian nationalism often go hand in hand.
How April and her non-binary spouse live out a faith that embraces authenticity and hope.
Why she still chooses to ground herself in the words of Jesus.

EDJ also reflects on the contrasts between voting in Australia and the United States, and how compulsory voting changes the landscape of politics and faith.

This episode will help you name the forces shaping the evangelical church in America, and it offers hope that change and healing are possible.

Find April Ajoy online:

TikTok & Instagram: @aprilajoy
Podcast: The Tim & April Show
Book: Star-Spangled Jesus (available now wherever books are sold)

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