Show notes:
In the first segment, our panelists discuss South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster’s decision to reinstate a private school voucher program—one that critics say directly violates the state’s Constitution by diverting public funds to religious schools. The Freedom From Religion Foundation argues this new plan, funded through state lottery proceeds, undermines public education and religious neutrality. Panelists explore how “school choice” programs nationwide have blurred constitutional boundaries, strained public school funding, and reignited debates about religion’s role in education.
In the second segment of the show, we explore the court case Dad’s Place of Bryan, Ohio v. City of Bryan, where a small church faces criminal charges for providing 24-hour shelter to the homeless. After the city demanded the ministry cease overnight stays, Pastor Chris Avell refused, insisting his church’s mission extends beyond Sunday services. This case raises profound questions about religious liberty, compassion ministries, and the limits of local government authority.
About the Show: Faith and Politics is a show dedicated to discussing issues surrounding the intersection of Church, State and politics and the examination of whether you are allowing your faith to shape your politics or your politics starting to shape your faith. What do you do when God and government come face to face?
Panelists: Galen Carey, Director of Government Affairs for the National Association of Evangelicals; Judith Hawkins, Former Judge and Attorney in Tallahassee Florida; Andrew Polk Professor of History at Middle Tennessee State University and the author of the critically acclaimed book, Faith In Freedom: Propaganda, Presidential Politics, and the Making of an American Religion; Melissa Reid, Director of Government Affairs for the North American Division of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
About Us: North American Division Public Affairs & Religious Liberty (PARL) is a ministry dedicated to proclaiming and defending the God-given gift of religious freedom which is integral to our identity as Seventh-day Adventist Christians. Learn more about PARL at www.religiousliberty.info.
Panelists
Galen Carey
Judith Hawkins
Dr. Andrew R. Polk
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