Praxis is all about action. When we look at the method called See-Judge-Act, we may have many members of the JOC movements who specialize in See/Observe and/or Judging/Discerning. But, there is a wing of the JOC movements that I will call the "Praxis Wing," those who are on the ground making things happen, organizing, and leading boots on the ground to bring about change, to bring about the kingdom of heaven here and now. The "Praxis Wing" picks up the last leg of the race and carries the Baton to bring about ACTION.
The alarming surge of Christian Nationalism in North America is an urgent issue that demands our immediate attention. Just as Fascism was a pressing concern during the time of Joseph Cardijn, we now face the rise of Christian Nationalism, which stands in stark contrast to the true essence of Christianity.
This is our moment to step up, speak out, and take action. We must educate our communities about the true biblical principles that Christian Nationalism does not represent. Our collective action can make a significant difference.
With your teams, begin to "Think out loud." Come to understand, see, and discern what is happening in our local communities and at the state level. For instance, consider the situation in Oklahoma, where the rise of Christian Nationalism has begun in the Department of Education.
There are vulnerable individuals, perhaps even among us, who are being influenced by Christian Nationalism. As Russell Moore (Editor-in-Chief of Christianity Today) aptly put it, "it presents a 'dark and non-Christian view of God and Jesus,' coupled with 'weird, unexplored psychological stuff about women.' Young people, especially those starting families, are particularly susceptible to the allure of an authoritarian, distant leader."
Many of us in the various JOC movements are what Louis J. Putz, CSC, called "third-agers," meaning life is divided into thirds. First, we are in formal learning. Second, we engage in formal earning, and Third, there is a time for returning the wisdom we have gained.
Consider a program of seminars and workshops for your local parish or community organization seminars, focusing on understanding Christian Nationalism, what it is and what it is not, and the difference it makes. Use the See-Judge-Act method.
Douglas Wilson and other Christian Nationalists are Not Speaking for Jesus.
So, is there a role, a praxis role for us to speak for Jesus?
Absolutely. As members of the JOC movement, it is our responsibility to stand up against Christian Nationalism and speak for the actual teachings of Jesus.