An Interesting Perspective on the National Anthem
I’ve served in congregations that had no flags in the sanctuary (Christian nor American) and I’ve served in congregations that had flags on proud display. I’ve watched ministers dance around the issue of national patriotism in the sanctuary, seen some embrace it to the near point of idolatry, seen some loose members or this jobs, and helped sneak flags farther and farther to the edge of the sanctuary (and then out) that there was no issue at all. The argument about this being a “christian nation” are for another day (though I am clearly in the “no” camp). I was forwarded this article about Goshen College and found it an interesting perspective on ‘nationalism’ and the Christian experience. Click the title to read the entire article.
Resistance to the National Anthem at Goshen College
Acquiescing to a public ritual that glorifies the nation-state is an issue that affects more than the Goshen College community or the Mennonite Church. Indeed, when Christians glorify their nation over another, they chip away at ecumenical fellowship, making this an issue for all Christians seeking to be faithful to the only God worthy of glory and praise.