At a recent Big Tent convening in California, a diverse group of Christian leaders gathered to discuss pressing social issues and the role of faith in public life. The event, organized by the Christian Times (CT), featured a panel moderated by artist and former CT Big Tent director Sho Baraka. The discussion focused on immigration, human dignity, race and justice, and how Christians should navigate technology responsibly.
Panelists and Their Expertise
Six speakers brought a range of perspectives to the conversation. Pastor Chris Butler, a seasoned community organizer and political strategist, shared insights from his 25‑year career in public service and his role as chief strategist at the And Campaign. He also pastors Ambassador Church near Chicago, where he emphasizes faith‑based community engagement.
Liliana Reza, director of border engagement at World Relief, highlighted the humanitarian challenges at U.S. borders and the importance of compassionate policy. Her experience underscores the intersection of faith and practical relief work.
Academic voices were represented by Felicia Wu Song, a cultural sociologist who studies how digital technologies shape contemporary life, and Brian Doak, academic vice president of digital programs and innovation at George Fox University. Both emphasized the need for Christians to critically assess the impact of technology on society and to use digital tools wisely.
From the policy side, Delano Squires, director of the Richard and Helen DeVos Center for Human Flourishing at the Heritage Foundation, offered a conservative perspective on human flourishing and governance. Finally, Malcolm Foley, author, historian, and pastor at Mosaic Waco, provided a historical lens on faith and social justice.
Key Themes Discussed
The panel addressed how Christians can exercise wisdom while engaging with technology. Speakers cautioned against uncritical adoption of digital platforms that may spread misinformation or erode community bonds. They called for intentional use of technology to promote transparency, accountability, and compassionate outreach.
Immigration and human dignity were central topics. Reza and Butler discussed the moral imperative to protect vulnerable migrants, while Squires highlighted the need for policies that balance security with humanitarian concerns. The panel underscored that faith communities should advocate for policies that uphold human dignity and promote social justice.
Race and justice were examined through the lens of historical context and contemporary realities. Foley emphasized the church’s responsibility to confront systemic racism and to foster reconciliation. Wu Song added that digital spaces can both perpetuate and challenge racial biases, urging Christians to use technology to amplify marginalized voices.
Audience Interaction and Takeaways
Audience members posed questions that prompted deeper reflection on how faith intersects with public policy. The moderator, Sho Baraka, guided the conversation to ensure that each speaker’s expertise was highlighted while maintaining a focus on actionable steps for congregations and communities.
Participants left with a renewed sense of purpose: to engage thoughtfully with technology, to advocate for just immigration policies, and to confront racial injustice through both personal and collective action. The panel served as a reminder that Christian leadership extends beyond the pulpit into the realms of public service, policy, and digital stewardship.
Source: Christianity Today
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