REBIRTH: Singing Death, Singing Life

Karl Moyer, Sponsor
In Memory of Carolyn S. Moyer

This sectional explores the theology of hymns—both past and present—that offer a strong foundation for the church's resistance to Christian nationalism. As this ideology threatens the faithfulness of congregations and the integrity of democracy, singing becomes a powerful act of defiance against harmful ideologies and the systemic issues of racism, authoritarianism, and Christo-fascism.

Participants will explore modern and traditional hymns, highlighting theological views that unite the church in its prophetic witness for an inclusive and courageous understanding of Jesus Christ. As the language of the church and Scripture is increasingly used to undermine human rights and replace a theology of abundance with narratives of fear, the hymns we sing become deeply meaningful.

This session complements Andreas Teich's 2025 presentation on how German Christians manipulated hymnody to support the Third Reich. In contrast, this workshop focuses on the church's role in resisting the rise of Christian nationalism today, highlighting hymns that promote justice and uphold the dignity of all people.