[dc]T[/dc]he pulpit has long been a place where faith leaders speak truth into society’s most pressing moral dilemmas. From abolitionists in the 19th century to civil rights leaders in the 20th, clergy have used their platforms to address justice, mercy, and human dignity. However, House Resolution 59, introduced on January 23, 2025, by Representative Josh Brecheen, and co-sponsored by 20 other members of Congress, raises troubling questions about the freedom of religious leaders to address these issues without government interference.
The resolution condemns Bishop Mariann Budde’s sermon at the National Prayer Service, where she called for mercy toward immigrants and inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals. While her theological views may not align with conservative evangelical doctrine, this resolution’s critique of her sermon should concern anyone who values the independence of religious institutions.[perfectpullquote align=”right” bordertop=”false” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]While her theological views may not align with conservative evangelical doctrine, this resolution’s critique of her sermon should concern anyone who values the independence of religious institutions.[/perfectpullquote]
The First Amendment protects the free exercise of religion and prohibits government interference in how faith communities express their beliefs. Although House Resolution 59 is a non-binding measure, it sets a dangerous precedent by using a congressional platform to scrutinize the content of a sermon. Even without legal force, such actions can chill the willingness of clergy to speak boldly on moral issues, particularly when their views do not align with those of the government or a political majority.
The government has no authority to act as an arbiter of religious speech. Once Congress begins critiquing sermons, it erodes the boundary between church and state. Today, it’s a critique of Bishop Budde’s progressive message; tomorrow, it could be a conservative pastor’s sermon defending the biblical definition of marriage or opposing abortion. The precedent of congressional judgment on religious expression should trouble people of all theological and political stripes.
[perfectpullquote align=”left” bordertop=”false” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]By condemning a sermon, this resolution risks crossing a line that should never be blurred: the ability of clergy to address issues of conscience without interference or condemnation from the state.[/perfectpullquote]
It is particularly concerning that this resolution seems to equate addressing moral concerns with political activism. Faith leaders have always engaged with societal issues, from William Wilberforce’s fight against slavery to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s leadership in the civil rights movement. Dismissing sermons as “political” ignores the historical reality that many moral movements are rooted in religious conviction.
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Religious freedom is most vulnerable when it is applied selectively. House Resolution 59 underscores the importance of defending the autonomy of the church to speak without fear of government reprisal, even when the messages are challenging or unpopular. By condemning a sermon, this resolution risks crossing a line that should never be blurred: the ability of clergy to address issues of conscience without interference or condemnation from the state.
This moment calls for vigilance. The separation of church and state exists not just to keep religion out of politics but to keep politics out of the pulpit. Faith leaders of all traditions must remain free to speak on moral and social issues without fear of government scrutiny or retaliation. House Resolution 59 reminds us just how critical that freedom is.