The Convocation Unscripted

Follow on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jemartisby.b...https://bsky.app/profile/kkdumez.bsky...https://bsky.app/profile/dianabutlerb...https://bsky.app/profile/robertpjones...Follow on Substack: The Convocation- convocation.substack.comRobert P. Jones- www.whitetoolong.netDiana Butler Bass- dianabutlerbass.substack.comKristin Du Mez- kristindumez.substack.comJemar Tisby- JemarTisby.Substack.com

This week’s episode is our last before the consequential midterm elections here in the U.S. So we’ve devoted this week to bringing you our take on how religion will impact the midterm elections and beyond. We kick things off with the latest analysis from PRRI’s American Values Survey, released recently in partnership with the Brookings Institution. But we also spend some time talking about the complex history of the American religious landscape and how that complexity is often missed in the political punditry around elections. Finally, we talk about how important it is that we all make sure our voices are heard by voting this week. Typically, less than half of eligible voters vote in midterm elections, but this week is an opportunity to change that and elect representatives that will protect democracy while there is still time to correct our wayward course.Follow on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jemartisby.b...https://bsky.app/profile/kkdumez.bsky...https://bsky.app/profile/dianabutlerb...https://bsky.app/profile/robertpjones...Follow on Substack: The Convocation- convocation.substack.comRobert P. Jones- www.whitetoolong.netDiana Butler Bass- dianabutlerbass.substack.comKristin Du Mez- kristindumez.substack.comJemar Tisby- JemarTisby.Substack.com

A wide-ranging live conversation explores public executions, capital punishment, Christian nationalism, racial terror, and the normalization of authoritarian violence. The discussion also turns to Russian influence, Silicon Valley power, Pope Leo’s moral leadership, public scholarship, local democratic action, Theology Beer Camp, upcoming film and book projects, and finding belonging beyond evangelicalism.

A proposed Pentagon Office of Religious Affairs sparks a troubling discussion about spiritual readiness, chaplaincy control, Christian nationalism, and military power. The conversation examines crusade rhetoric, homeschooling initiatives, and ties to dominionist networks. It also mourns Pierre Damas Bel and critiques harsh immigration enforcement, before turning to new findings that Christian nationalism faces a strong democratic majority.

Amid the continued visible destruction of symbolic institutions, the Convocation Unscripted team asks, “Where are the conservative patriots?” You know, those who have so loudly professed a commitment to CONSERVING not only things like our most beloved public spaces like the Kennedy Center and the White House but cherished values like public service, ethics, and respect for the rule of law. There are signs that the facade is cracking—with Karl Rove stating he’s voting for a Democrat in Texas and Rep. Thomas Massie introducing articles of impeachment against Pete Hegseth—but these remain lone voices shouted down by their fellow Republicans. We express some hope that more former Trump supporters will realize the danger in which they’ve put the country and Christianity and then change course; and we note the importance of welcoming them back into the democratic fold when they do. And we close with a reflection on a community based on covenant and care rather than self-serving transactions.Follow on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jemartisby.b...https://bsky.app/profile/kkdumez.bsky...https://bsky.app/profile/dianabutlerb...https://bsky.app/profile/robertpjones...Follow on Substack: The Convocation- convocation.substack.comRobert P. Jones- www.whitetoolong.netDiana Butler Bass- dianabutlerbass.substack.comKristin Du Mez- kristindumez.substack.comJemar Tisby- JemarTisby.Substack.com

Sociologist Robert P. Jones, founder of PRRI and author of Backslide, joins historian and religion scholar Diana Butler Bass. They recall Wild Goose Festival chaos, discuss books that changed their understanding of faith and justice, and reflect on 9/11 memories, Islamophobia, civil liberties, retaliation, and the long shadow of fear over American politics.

A lively discussion explores J.D. Vance and Peter Thiel’s apocalyptic rhetoric, billionaire dreams of technological immortality, and the biblical warnings against playing god. The conversation connects Christian nationalism, climate denial, elite power, and threats to democracy, while highlighting books, Gloria Steinem, Wendell Berry, Dolly Parton, and practical ways to protect voting rights and take faithful civic action.

In this TCU+LIVE episode, the Convocation Unscripted team talked about the challenges of finding rest amid the ongoing assaults on our democracy and American decency--from the $100 billion spent on the unjust and unnecessary war in Iran to $20 million for new "shock gloves" that will be issued to ICE agents across the country, which are exactly what they sound like. Diana reminded everyone of the power of beauty and poetry, even--and especially--when they feel dissonant against the destructive background noise. Thanks to all the live subscribers who joined us with insightful questions, which lead us to wrap the conversation about the importance of building local community and connections in these critical months ahead of the challenging midterm elections.

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They unpack a recent speech that used dehumanizing imagery and echoed Nazi and scientific racism. Discussion focuses on language that could criminalize dissent and broaden domestic terrorism labels. Historical parallels to COINTELPRO and threats to civil movements are explored. The conversation closes with urgency about turnout and protecting democratic accountability.