In this episode of White Women Wake Up, Karen and Jonelle unpack the viral images of an all‑white evangelical worship service held in the West Wing—juxtaposed with the same‑day arrest of Black pastors praying in the Capitol rotunda—and ask what these moments reveal about white Christian nationalism. Drawing on their own faith journeys, they explore why so many white women see church‑run government as “values‑based” leadership, how U.S. history warned against that fusion, and why countries that entwine religion and state so often curtail education, civil liberties, and women’s rights. The hosts challenge listeners to examine the unspoken belief that goodness is uniquely Christian and to recognize how that myth sustains white supremacy. Ultimately, they argue that protecting a pluralistic democracy is a spiritual as well as civic obligation—and that white women, who often steward family faith traditions, have a pivotal role in keeping church and state separate.

Calls to Action

• Run the “Sermon Test.” This week, listen for whether your church preaches the Sermon on the Mount’s radical love as loudly as “America First.” Note any imbalances and share them with a trusted friend.
• Start a Kitchen‑Table Audit. Invite one white woman in your life to discuss how her civic choices might expand—or restrict—others’ religious freedom. Center curiosity, not shame.
• Defend the Wall of Separation. Email or call your local representatives urging them to uphold policies that keep faith communities free and government neutral—such as opposing sectarian prayers in official venues.

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