The religious Left is tired of being marginalized. In recent months, several faith leaders have redoubled their efforts to create a meaningful movement that can undermine the religious Right and oppose President Trump’s agenda. Reverend William J. Barber II is at the forefront of these efforts. The Evangelical pastor holds liberal views on gay and transgender rights, and denounces what he calls a “spirit of Caesar” in American society. Sentiments like this reflect the religious Left’s view that America increasingly mirrors ancient Rome, with the implication being that just as Christ rejected Roman society, he would also reject America’s character today. Barber has led countless marches and protests, especially in his home state of North Carolina, some of which have resulted in his arrest. His energetic devotion to this religiously grounded, liberal movement has even resulted in comparisons to Martin Luther King, Jr. Barber and the slowly emerging religious Left have received a boost from Trump, whose refugee policy, in particular, elicited a strongly critical reaction from Christian, Jewish, and Muslim leaders. In addition, ministers such as Reverend Jennifer Butler of the Presbyterian Church have been using their influence to oppose the repeal of Obamacare and support socially liberal causes. In addition to encouraging activism, some leaders of the religious Left are seeking young leaders whom they can groom for public office.
Read more at: http://www.nationalreview.com/article/449411/religious-left-democrat-party-still-hostile-voters-faith