On October 18, millions attended “No Kings” rallies at around 2,600 locations across the U.S., with an estimated six million participants. This marked a significant turnout, surpassing previous rallies and potentially making it the largest day of protests since Earth Day in 1970. Clergy and lay Christians participated, countering claims from conservative pundits who labeled the rallies as godless or Marxist. The article, written by Brian Kaylor, details his own experience at a Missouri rally, where he emphasized the importance of church-state separation and the dangers of Christian Nationalism.
Kaylor traces the roots of the call for religious liberty back to Thomas Helwys, who, in 1612, argued for complete religious freedom in his writings. He highlights the historical context of church-state relations, warning against theocratic governance and authoritarianism. The article also critiques modern attempts to intertwine Christianity with government, showing how some lawmakers promote Christian Nationalism and attempt to privilege one faith over others, undermining the rights of religious minorities. Kaylor asserts that the separation of church and state is essential for preserving the religious liberty of all individuals, warning against efforts that seek to erode this principle.
