Growing Up With Christian Nationalists w/ April Ajoy

April Ajoy, author of Star Spangled Jesus, shares her journey of growing up in the American Christian Nationalist movement, and how leaving that community has impacted her faith and engagement in the community.

About April Ajoy

April Ajoy is an author, content creator and podcast host who uses humor to shine light on harmful, toxic, and sometimes just weird traits of American Evangelicalism. After growing up an evangelist’s kid entrenched in Christian Nationalism and working in conservative Christian media, she saw the harm caused firsthand. Still a Christian, she uses her platform to expose the dangers of Christian Nationalism while promoting a more inclusive faith. April has been featured on Buzzfeed, CNN, Newsweek and more. She’s been married to Beecher for 10 years and they have two daughters together.

Episode Sections

00:00 Upbringing in Evangelical Circles

01:21 Shift in Ministry Focus Post-9/11

03:20 Christian Media and Nationalism

08:12 What are some of the ways that your politics was synced up with your faith at that time?

15:08 How are we worshiping the same God when we have completely different ideas of who Jesus is?

18:55 Journey of Change and Understanding

28:02 How would you coach us in approaching those who are embracing American Christian nationalism today?

37:32 Creating Compassionate Alternatives

42:43 Promotion and Social Media Handles

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