Published on September 2, 2024, 12:43 am

Not many are familiar with the name “Reverend” Caroline Unzaga but her recent actions at the Brick Presbyterian Church have sparked a buzz. While her position among the clergy would typically suggest an adherence to gospel, Unzaga’s approach leans more towards appeasement of emerging social ideologies rather than sticking close to traditional Christian principles.

One would expect to hear Christian teaching during a Sunday service – a sermon perhaps on the Ten Commandments or reflecting upon the Sermon on the Mount. However, it came as a surprise when congregants found themselves listening to confessions about newer issues of society – “racial and ethnic privileging,” “gender exclusivity,” and “nationalistic imperialism” – led by Unzaga herself.

Her initial words seemed well-aligned with orthodox beliefs: “Merciful God, you have commanded us to love you above all and to have no other gods.” And then, in an unexpected turn of events, she began focusing on what can be better associated with current socio-political debates rather than biblical theology. What was supposed to be a confession of sin soon transformed into echo-chamber discussions straight out from academia’s most progressive departments.

The question mark that hung over the heads of everyone present was – which Bible was she using? For surely, these topics appear more like teachings from The Gospel according to Karl Marx than The Holy Bible itself. And yet, amid all this masquerade and diversion from tradition stood not one mention of repentance for not partaking in the latest Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) training.

In these times of social dynamics overlap with sacred spaces, maintaining a Christian worldview becomes crucial yet challenging. While addressing real news about contemporary societal issues is critical; understanding whether such discourses align with trusted news based on biblical perspectives is even more so.

Further instances include self declared “bishop” Keith McQueen making Powerhouse Church his podium for spreading biblically illiterate doctrines, and David French trying to bridge conservatism with left-leaning principles.

Amid all these shifting mindsets in the Christian world, one thing remains clear – a deviation from an orthodox understanding of the Bible is becoming quite noticeable. It’s therefore essential for followers to discern between worldly ideologies and traditional biblical teachings. While it’s undeniable that real-time discussions on societal issues are necessary, they should not dilute the Christian essence of faith-filled congregations.