Our nation’s commitment to the free exercise of religion is unwavering. Religious organizations are tax-exempt, and gifts to religious organizations are tax deductible, lest the tax code be seen as a burden to the free exercise of religion. Americans are free to assemble with people of like faith and to practice their faith in community without fearContinue reading “Right to Religious Freedom? Yes. Right to run a business according to your faith? Not necessarily.”
Category Archives: Church/State
Oaths of Office
On Friday I received my commission as a Chaplain (First Lieutenant) in the US Army and in the Indiana Army National Guard. Here are the oaths I swore. I, Christopher Thomas Duckworth, do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of Indiana againstContinue reading “Oaths of Office”
Same Gender Marriage & The State: A Perspective Rooted in Freedom & Faith
Yesterday I stood with hundreds of fellow citizens outside the doors of the Indiana State House Judiciary Committee, which held a hearing on HJR-3 – a proposed state constitutional amendment defining marriage as the union of one man and one woman. I was part of the large crowd opposing this unnecessary, anti-family proposal. As a personContinue reading “Same Gender Marriage & The State: A Perspective Rooted in Freedom & Faith”
Morning Prayer Following the Elections
Tomorrow at my congregation, Grace Lutheran on the East Side of Saint Paul, we will gather to pray for our state and nation following the elections. Please join us – in person, or in spirit. Morning Prayer On the Occasion of Local, State, and National Elections Wednesday, November 7, 10am Grace Lutheran Church, Saint Paul, MNContinue reading “Morning Prayer Following the Elections”
Talking about Politics and Sexuality at Church
This November, Minnesota voters will have the chance to accept or reject a proposed state constitutional amendment that would write a definition of marriage into the state constitution. Understanding the sensitivities that arise when talking in the church about either politics or sexuality – let alone both! – I shared the following letter in my congregation’s AugustContinue reading “Talking about Politics and Sexuality at Church”
The Lutheran Zephyr 