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The 39th Deutscher Evangelischer Kirchentag, or German Protestant Church Day, took place in Hannover, Germany from April 30 to May 4. The event attracted over 100,000 attendees and featured more than 1,500 events focusing on various political, social, and environmental issues.
Among the speakers was Rev. Dr. Karen Georgia Thompson, General Minister and President of the United Church of Christ (UCC). Thompson participated in a panel discussion titled "With God Against Democracy: What the Example of the USA Teaches Us in Germany," where she addressed concerns about Christian nationalism.
Thompson emphasized that Christian nationalism should be viewed as extremism and urged people to stop labeling it as "Christian." She stated that this movement does not align with the core principles of Christianity and highlighted Jesus' commandment to "love your neighbor as yourself."
Thompson expressed concern about how Christian symbolism is used in nationalist movements, leading some to believe these actions are sanctioned by God. She clarified that many Christians in the United States oppose such ideologies and advocate for human rights.
She called for an active engagement against misinformation linked to Christianity and encouraged defining what it truly means to be Christian. "For too long we have ignored the untruths that are present around Christianity," said Thompson.
Thompson also noted that this is not a new issue. Historical instances like Jim Crow laws were upheld by certain interpretations of Christian theology. She encouraged attendees not to fear addressing these issues but rather rely on courage derived from faith.
The next German Evangelical Kirchentag is scheduled for 2027 in Düsseldorf, Germany.
