Submitted
From Strangers to Neighbors, a Carmel-based nonprofit, in partnership with Voices4Democracy Indiana, will host a community screening and discussion of the documentary Bad Faith: Christian Nationalism’s Unholy War on Democracy from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 8 at the Carmel Public Library, Community Room B, 425 E. Main St. The screening is free but requires pre-registration.
In addition to the film screening, the event will feature post-film community conversation and Q&A session led by Dr. Matthias Beier. Bad Faith traces the historical roots and modern political influence of Christian Nationalism. It features interviews with scholars, clergy, and former movement insiders who examine how religious identity has intersected with American politics. The 83-minute documentary examines the historical development and contemporary influence of Christian Nationalism and was named one of the 10 best films in 2024 by Variety.
Dr. Beier is an Indianapolis resident and an internationally recognized expert and speaker on assessing the difference between harmful and healthy forms of religion and on fostering a spirituality of love and peace. Last November, he debated Lieutenant Governor Micah Beckwith in an IndyStar series on Christian Nationalism to explore the use of religion by the government. He is an associate professor at Christian Theological Seminary, holds a Master of Divinity degree and a PhD in Psychology and Religion, and has served as a United Methodist minister.
Organizers of the event note that the program is designed to create a welcoming space for thoughtful dialogue about the relationship between faith and democratic life, particularly as some immigrant neighbors face arrest and deportation.
Sharon Boller, who heads the refugee support organization From Strangers to Neighbors, said, “Right now many people do not understand the roots of current government policy and actions. This event creates a safe space for neighbors within our community to come together, learn, and engage thoughtfully with important issues affecting our community – particularly the topic of immigrant arrests, detentions, and deportations.”
The post-film discussion will give attendees an opportunity to ask questions and reflect together on how faith traditions can contribute to a humane and democratic society.
“Faith is being widely misused in our society today to stoke fear and justify inhumanity,” said Beier. “In light of the documentary Bad Faith, I want to help answer why this is happening, and show how faith is actually designed to foster a truly humane society based on trust.”
Advance registration for the March 8 public event is open at fromstrangerstoneighbors.org/events-bad-faith.