The Southern Baptist Convention’s strong emphasis on religious freedom has deep historical roots, according to an expert who studies the denomination’s past. Dr. Christopher Schelin, a professor at California’s Starr King School for the Ministry, explains that this commitment stems from centuries-old struggles.
“Baptists faced legal obstacles and sometimes violent persecution in the 13 colonies with established churches. And so they became fierce advocates for religious liberty during the American Revolution and the framing of the Constitution,” Schelin stated. The professor, who authored “The Contestable Church: Dissent, Democracy and Baptist Ecclesiology,” notes that conservative Baptist groups remain at the forefront of conscience protection efforts today.
In Louisiana, House Speaker Mike Johnson celebrated a federal court ruling that permits the Ten Commandments to be displayed in the state’s public school classrooms. The Louisiana Republican emphasized that the legislation aims to recognize America’s “history and tradition” rather than establish religious doctrine.
The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals determined it was premature to rule on the law’s constitutional validity. Court officials noted uncertainty about how prominently schools will showcase the biblical text and whether additional historical documents like the Mayflower Compact or Declaration of Independence will accompany the displays.
Overseas, Sri Lankan authorities have detained the nation’s former intelligence director regarding the devastating Easter Sunday bombing attacks in 2019. Suresh Salley faces charges related to “lapses” that allegedly enabled terrorists to execute their deadly plan, which claimed nearly 270 lives across multiple churches and hotels. The ISIS-inspired assault targeted one Protestant congregation, two Catholic parishes during holiday services, and three tourist-filled hotels.
California Governor Gavin Newsom faces criticism from LGBT advocacy groups during his book promotion tour, which many view as preparation for a 2028 presidential campaign. The controversy stems from Newsom’s recent CNN interview where he argued the Democratic Party should be “more culturally normal and less prone to spending a disproportionate amount of time on pronouns and identity.” Critics question whether this represents a genuine shift or political positioning, given Newsom’s previous strong support for LGBT initiatives as governor.
