Fort Worth Church Trains Christians for Political Office Nationwide

A church in Fort Worth, Texas, is expanding its initiative to train Christians for political office through an online program called Campaign University. Launched in 2021 by the Mercy Culture Church and its affiliated nonprofit, For Liberty & Justice, the course aims to empower participants to engage in civic duties while promoting Christian values.

The program is led by Nate Schatzline, a Republican legislator and pastor at Mercy Culture. In a recent video message, Schatzline emphasized the vital role Christians play in politics, declaring, “There is no greater calling than being civically engaged and bringing the values that Scripture teaches us into every realm of the earth.” This sentiment encapsulates the core philosophy of Campaign University, which has garnered attention for its potential to reach a national audience.

Institutional Expansion and Political Ambitions

Campaign University is part of a broader trend within Mercy Culture to increase its political influence. The church has previously engaged in candidate endorsements and has seen Schatzline join Donald Trump‘s National Faith Advisory Board. The course is designed not only to educate potential candidates about the political process but also to instill a belief that there is no distinction between church and state. Participants are encouraged to view their political ambitions as a divine calling.

The curriculum covers essential skills for running for office, offering practical lessons on public engagement. Students learn that expertise in government is not a prerequisite for political participation. Instead, the program emphasizes the importance of spiritual righteousness and community connections. The teachings challenge traditional interpretations of the First Amendment, suggesting that it protects religious expression in public life rather than establishing a strict separation between church and state.

Recent changes by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) have further emboldened religious leaders to engage in political discourse. The IRS now permits clerics to endorse candidates from the pulpit, which Schatzline interprets as a green light for increased church involvement in politics. This shift aligns with findings from Eric McDaniel, a professor at the University of Texas at Austin, who notes that religious institutions are increasingly mobilizing their congregants for political action.

Grassroots Mobilization and Future Plans

As Campaign University gains traction, efforts are underway to expand its reach beyond Texas. The program has already been introduced in congregations across multiple states, including Florida and Hawaii. For a tuition fee of $100, participants receive comprehensive training designed to prepare them for political engagement.

The course has attracted a diverse range of students, including local GOP officials and aspiring candidates. Notably, Texas GOP Chairman Abraham George and other political figures have completed the program. While many graduates have not publicly commented on their experiences, their involvement signals a growing network of politically active Christians.

The church’s aim to elevate Campaign University to a national platform reflects ambitions to partner with other religious organizations. Leaders within For Liberty & Justice have indicated that they intend to create resources for churches nationwide, mirroring the mobilization strategies used by organizations like Turning Point USA among college students.

Schatzline has stated that he will not seek reelection to his legislative seat but will continue to lead Mercy Culture and For Liberty & Justice. He views his role on the faith advisory board as a pivotal opportunity to amplify the church’s political voice.

The political landscape in Tarrant County, where Fort Worth is located, is increasingly competitive. With the county experiencing shifts in voter sentiment, local Republicans are focused on maintaining their influence. Campaign University participants are encouraged to engage in grassroots efforts, advocating for conservative policies and candidates at community meetings.

As the 2024 elections approach, the initiatives stemming from Campaign University are set against a backdrop of changing demographics and political dynamics in Tarrant County. The county’s past electoral outcomes illustrate a challenging environment for Republicans, prompting increased mobilization efforts among Christian conservatives.

In conclusion, Campaign University represents a significant intersection of faith and politics in the United States, illustrating how religious organizations can shape public discourse and influence electoral outcomes. With its ambitions to expand nationally, the program could redefine how Christian values are integrated into the political landscape.