Ellen Mennell is recognized when it comes to her work in Social Justice, Inner Healing, Awakening, Religious Deconstruction and Religious Trauma. She is CEO of Advocate of Soul, an online coaching business, an International Speaker, Women’s Circle Facilitator, the author of AS IS, Book 1 & 2, and the host of Advocate of Soul., on YouTube.
Few topics ignite as much debate and division in today's society as those surrounding evangelical Christianity. This branch of Christianity, characterized by its emphasis on personal faith and the authority of the Bible, often finds itself at the center of contentious discussions regarding our changing society and traditional values. The implications of these divisions are profound, affecting not only individual relationships but broader dynamics.
One of the most noticeable areas of division is related to environmental issues. While many evangelical Christians see care for the Earth as a responsibility rooted in their faith, advocating for sustainable practices, I never received that teaching in my thirty years of church service. Instead, I heard messages that prioritized spiritual growth over environmental stewardship. This lack of emphasis on caring for our planet left me feeling disconnected from a crucial aspect of faith that should have been highlighted.
For example, many sermons I attended focused on salvation and the promise of eternal life in heaven. The teachings drilled into our minds that our true home is not on Earth but in the afterlife. This perspective taught us the temporary nature of our existence and that the world is destined for destruction. Therefore, our primary goal should be to prepare for departure. These messages only downplayed the importance of the environment, leading to a mindset that viewed Earth as merely a stopgap rather than something to be cherished and tended to. Those who felt a moral obligation to protect the environment as part of their faith were labeled earth worshippers, tree huggers (as though that's a bad thing), idolaters, and enemies of God.
Another environmental issue is regulation viewed as infringement on personal freedoms and progress. All that happens within this perspective, is an infusion of tension within the church and the broader community. I've sat in church debates over local policies aimed at reducing waste or protecting natural habitats, with people on different sides of the issue unable to find common ground. It can be challenging to witness how divisive beliefs about our responsibility to care for Mother Earth create inroads of conflicting actions and policies. In the end, this hinders our collective ability to protect the environment for future generations.
Sexuality is another sensitive topic to Christianity, particularly in the United States. As a lesbian, I have felt the weight of discrimination within the church, where evangelical teachings often upheld traditional views on marriage and sexual relationships. This perspective unintentionally pushed aside those of us who identified as LGBTQ+, making us feel isolated and unaccepted.
While some members of the evangelical community strive to embrace inclusion, others cling firmly to outdated doctrines, creating a rift that can be painful. This tension affects everyone and can tear apart families and friendships on opposite sides of a deeply personal issue. In my relationships, there has been a struggle to reconcile love which has led to heart-wrenching conversations and estrangement. These conflicts remind us of how important it is to approach such topics with compassion, humility, and understanding, recognizing the humanity in each other, regardless of beliefs.
The intersection of faith and politics deepens societal divisions too. Many evangelicals align with conservative ideologies, promoting traditional policies that alienate those who see their faith as a call for social justice and progressive change. This polarization is evident in debates on immigration, healthcare, and education, where differing interpretations of Christian values often result in harsh criticism of opposing views. Also, the rise of Christian Nationalism complicates matters by merging religious and national identities, as it sidelines those who advocate for a more compassionate approach to social issues.
Family upbringing in evangelical circles is often the root cause of polarization around gender roles, parenting, marriage, etc. Younger generations may challenge these norms, seeking a free and autonomous approach to faith and family life. This can create a misunderstanding of what it means to live faithfully. Additionally, purity culture, which is still alive and well, promotes abstinence until marriage, causing damaging experiences that lead to feelings of self-hatred and inadequacy. Many who have had premarital relationships will not tell church authority because of being ostracized or judged, resulting in deep-seated shame. This pressure manifests in anxiety and fear of failure, complicating the dating arena with unhealthy relationships. As young people navigate these complexities, the clash of experiences and expectations can polarize their views on faith and relationships.
Bridging the divide & modern issues
While this article highlights some examples of how Evangelical Christianity creates polarization, many more exist. As our society continues to evolve, it is essential for those in the evangelical church to actively engage in open and humble dialogue to seek commonality instead of always having to be "right" on one side or another.
We can prioritize understanding instead of demonizing those who seek a more progressive approach. Viewing and discerning each other as mirrors increases compassion and care. When we see each other on an even playing field, this bridges the divides that have formed. Faith then becomes inclusive and accepting which gives space for everyone to address contemporary issues in an attitude of peace and true resolution. These positive ripples in the earth will affect healthy change for generations.
Ellen Mennell, Spiritual/ Empowerment Coach
Ellen Mennell, a trail blazer for Freedom, believes compassion, love, and understanding is key to healing our planet. This led her to live in more than 20+ nations leading humanitarian efforts around Social Justice. These experiences shaped Ellen’s life forever and gifted her with a diverse way of thinking, living and being. Overcoming Life’s challenges and Spiritual awakening led her to abandon decades of religious fundamentalism. Her journey has inspired others to rise into their own power. Ellen’s coaching strategy, writings, speaking events, and inner healing work gives permission to people everywhere to live from their own truth, by walking their own path, and by saying YES to what stirs their soul.
