Christian Leaders Denounce Trump Policies in Open Letter During Lent

Faith Leaders Express Concern Over Policy Changes

A coalition of more than 100 Christian pastors and activists has voiced their disapproval of recent policy changes by the Trump administration, specifically targeting cuts to welfare programs, reductions in foreign aid, and the deportation of undocumented immigrants.

The letter, titled “Returning To Jesus: Practicing Lent In Our Time,” emerged from discussions among faith leaders in January, with the Center on Faith and Justice at Georgetown University, led by Jim Wallis, facilitating the collection of signatures.

While President Trump is not directly named, the letter addresses the administration’s efforts to reduce foreign aid and anti-poverty initiatives. “The massive cutting of foreign aid to those most in need…is a gospel issue for us,” the letter states, urging the defense of international aid that safeguards lives.

The letter stresses that “deficit reduction should never be at the expense of low-income families,” labeling this as a “moral tradeoff” that is “unacceptable.” It calls on elected officials to oppose cuts to programs such as Medicaid, SNAP, and WIC, which are crucial for vulnerable populations.

Emphasizing the context of Lent, the letter describes a “growing crisis in America” driven by political power dynamics. It highlights the administration’s actions as an abandonment of those “Jesus commands his followers to serve and protect.”

Scripture from Matthew 25 is cited, underscoring the Christian duty to care for “the least of these.” The website hosting the letter also provides resources for organizing vigils and petitions against immigration raids on religious venues.

Jim Wallis, known for founding Sojourners, argues the letter reflects Jesus’ teachings against “temptations of money, wealth, and power.” He challenges readers to reassess their politics if they perceive the letter as political.

Signatories include figures like Shane Claiborne, Rev. Teresa Hord Owens, and Bishop Claude Alexander. However, the letter faces criticism from David Closson of the Family Research Council, who describes it as a progressive attempt to reframe political issues.

Closson asserts the administration’s policies align with biblical views on issues like abortion and transgenderism, pointing to executive orders that uphold these values.

Signatory Patrick Carolan emphasizes the Christian duty to care for the poor, noting that Jesus’ teachings on this are clear. Rev. Nancy Neal from Bread for the World emphasizes bipartisan support for programs aiding the vulnerable.

Closson doubts the letter’s impact on public discourse, suggesting it will not significantly alter public opinion due to the well-known positions of its signatories.