Christian Nationalism: What can I do?
First, let's refresh why we are all working with Joseph Cardijn's teachings. Second, let's realize the teachings offer a solid framework for understanding and combating Christian Nationalism, emphasizing grassroots organizing, social justice, and authentic Christian witness, by emphasizing universal human dignity, authentic Catholic Social Teaching based on the Encyclicals, and the use of the method of "See-Judge-Act" that rejects any attempts to fuse faith with nationalistic or exclusionary ideologies. Current data shows that three in ten Americans qualify as Christian nationalism Adherents or Sympathizers. And that number is growing daily. Making Cardijn's approach particularly relevant today. (Christian Nationalism Across All 50 States: Insights from PRRI's 2024 American Values Atlas - PRRI,)
Being a historian, I must point out that Cardijn's Historical Opposition and Legacy is key!
During the 1930s in Europe, Cardijn was outspoken against the rise of Christian Nationalism and its fascist manifestations disguised as National Socialism, advocating instead for social justice and solidarity across cultures. His lay-centered movements, such as the Young Christian Workers, advanced a communitarian ethic (a term I am liking more and more lately) opposed to exclusion and power politics.
Key Differences: Catholic Social Teaching vs. Christian Nationalism
Cardijn's principles highlight several critical distinctions:
Catholic Social Teaching focuses on the dignity and rights of all humans, concern for the global common good, and the universal nature of the Church.
Christian Nationalism emphasizes particularism, merges Christian and national identity, where it becomes a form of idolatry, promotes exclusion, and often seeks political dominance based on a narrow interpretation of faith.
While Catholic Social Teaching affirms robust patriotism, it firmly separates Church and state, supports religious freedom for all, and denounces using Christianity as a political cover for secular goals.
Cardijn's "See-Judge-Act" Methodology can serve as a Counter-Narrative to Christian Nationalism.
Cardijn's "See-Judge-Act" methodology offers a direct challenge to Christian nationalist approaches:
See: Cardijn emphasized careful observation of social realities, particularly the experiences of working-class people. This contrasts sharply with Christian nationalism's tendency to impose predetermined ideological frameworks rather than genuinely listening to marginalized voices.
Judge: His approach involved evaluating situations through Gospel values of justice, mercy, and love for the poor and vulnerable. Watch how much of Christian Nationalism focuses on the "Prosperity Gospel." There is a reason this happens. This differs from Christian nationalist judgments that often prioritize cultural dominance, wealth, and political power over Gospel imperatives.
Act: Cardijn called for concrete action to transform unjust structures, focusing on empowering ordinary people rather than consolidating power among elites. Think about who is coming forth as the elites in your country?
Cardijn's Vision of Christian Social Action
Cardijn's teachings directly counter several key aspects of Christian nationalism, offering a stark contrast that is both enlightening and necessary for understanding.
Authentic Evangelization vs. Cultural Imperialism: Cardijn believed in evangelization through witness and service, not through political coercion or cultural dominance. He saw authentic Christian witness as arising from solidarity with the oppressed, not from positions of power.
Bottom-Up vs. Top-Down Change: The Young Christian Workers movement he founded was built on empowering ordinary lay people to be agents of change in their daily lives. This grassroots approach contrasts with Christian nationalism's focus on capturing institutional power.
Universal Dignity: Cardijn's emphasis on the inherent dignity of every person, particularly workers and the marginalized, challenges Christian nationalism's often exclusionary vision, which privileges certain groups over others.
OK, the section you've been waiting for: What about practical applications?
Cardijn's approach suggests several strategies for combating Christian nationalism:
Formation of Small Communities: Building local groups that practice the "See-Judge-Act" method to address concrete social problems in their communities. Build bridges instead of fortresses, welcoming diversity in pursuit of the common good.
Emphasis on Social Justice: Centering Christian witness on care for the poor, immigrants, and marginalized rather than cultural warfare. Reclaim authentic social teaching and resist politicization of faith
Lay Leadership Development: Empowering ordinary Christians to be leaders in social transformation rather than deferring to authoritarian religious or political leaders. Prophetically challenge unjust systems and reject the idolatry of nation or power.
Interfaith Solidarity: While maintaining Christian identity, working across religious lines for the common good - something Christian nationalism typically rejects. (Maybe take a class or study group on Comparative Religions)