The Hypocrisy of Christian Outrage Culture

Last updated on: August 3, 2024 at 9:39 am By Matthew Distefano

In tomorrow’s episode of Heretic Happy Hour, I discuss the peculiar case of Imane Khalif, an Algerian boxer competing in the Olympics. Here, we find ourselves at the intersection of sports, gender politics, and the boundless outrage machine of conservative circles. Khalif, who has become a flashpoint for controversy, is not just another athlete but a symbol of the absurd standards society often imposes on women. The outrage isn’t really about her boxing prowess or the sport itself; it’s about... Read more

God and the Gay Christian

Last updated on: July 25, 2024 at 8:24 am By Matthew Distefano

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As a co-host of the Heretic Happy Hour podcast and out bi man, I have often been asked how we reconcile faith and sexuality, especially within the LGBTQ+ community. This topic has sparked many passionate discussions, and our recent episode was no exception. We were joined by an incredible panel including Brandan Robertson, Jennifer Knapp, and Flamy Grant. Each brought unique perspectives and deep insights, shedding light on the intersection of faith, identity, and acceptance. Brandan Robertson, a writer, activist,... Read more

The Implications of Project 2025 for Social Services

Last updated on: July 15, 2024 at 11:35 pm By Matthew Distefano

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In the contemporary political landscape, few documents as of late have ignited as much concern and debate as Project 2025. This initiative, under the auspices of the political right, threatens to fundamentally alter the structure of social services in the United States, potentially dismantling the safety net that supports millions of vulnerable citizens. Analyzing Project 2025 from the perspective of a social worker, the ramifications for programs such as Social Security, Medicare, and other essential services are deeply troubling. In... Read more

“Make Donald J. Trump Safe Again” Bill Passes House Vote

Last updated on: July 15, 2024 at 11:53 pm By Matthew Distefano

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Washington, DC – For decades, a majority of Americans have been asking, begging, pleading Congress to pass common sense gun control laws, only to have their cries fall on deaf ears. All of that may be about to change. In a twist of fate no one saw coming, liberal Democrats in Washington have partnered with the unlikeliest of lawmakers, MAGA conservatives, to co-write a bipartisan bill called the “Make Donald J. Trump Safe Again” act, which aggressively limits access to... Read more

Guns, Jesus, and the Trump Conundrum

Last updated on: July 14, 2024 at 10:32 pm By Matthew Distefano

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In light of recent events involving gun violence and former president Donald J. Trump, it is imperative to focus our reflection on the broader implications for American society. The incident discussed in the recent Heretic Happy Hour podcast episode—a shooting that involved a young, affluent, and ideologically driven individual—serves as a stark reminder of the volatile intersection between politics, violence, and societal values. This article aims to dissect these themes, drawing on Christian teachings and the challenging rhetoric of Trump,... Read more

Faith, Politics, and Sanity: Navigating with The God Squad

Last updated on: July 12, 2024 at 7:03 am By Matthew Distefano

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In the evolving landscape of American faith and politics, the intersection of these domains has never been more contentious. In the latest episode of the brand new The God Squad Podcast, which streams live every Thursday at 5 PM PST, and features hosts Dillon Naber Cruz, Desimber Rose, and Keith Giles, the Squad dives into these turbulent waters with a keen focus on the pressing issues of our time, particularly the rise of Christian nationalism and its implications for democracy... Read more

The Handmaid’s Tale Is Coming To A State Near You

Last updated on: July 8, 2024 at 12:20 pm By Matthew Distefano

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In a recent installment of “Sunday Matt” on the Heretic Happy Hour podcast, I reflected on the eerie parallels between our present-day socio-political climate and the dystopian world depicted in Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale. This reflection isn’t merely an exercise in dramatic comparison but a sober realization of the rapid trajectory we’re on—a trajectory that should alarm anyone who values freedom, equality, and justice. When my wife and I started watching “The Handmaid’s Tale,” I knew it would be... Read more

Women’s Empowerment and Patriarchy

Last updated on: July 3, 2024 at 2:01 pm By Matthew Distefano

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My wife and I just started watching “The Handmaid’s Tale” on Hulu, and let me just tell you that if you haven’t seen it, it’s f*cking terrifying and uncomfortable to watch. However, in dire times like these, sometimes you have to do uncomfortable things to prepare yourself for the world that may be coming your way. Let me also just say: thank God for people like Sheila Wray Gregoire, April Ajoy, and my partner in crime, Keith Giles, for the... Read more

Christian Nationalism: A Critical Discourse

Last updated on: July 2, 2024 at 6:20 am By Matthew Distefano

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Christian nationalism has been a contentious and increasingly prominent topic in contemporary American discourse. In a recent panel discussion on the Heretic Happy Hour podcast, we brought together activists Lisa Sharon Harper and Shane Claiborne to explore this phenomenon, its implications, and its potential threats to both democracy and authentic Christian faith. The discussion is rich with insights, historical perspectives, and passionate critiques, making it a valuable resource for understanding the complex interplay between Christianity and nationalism in the United... Read more

The Bible and Politics: A Match Made in Hell

Last updated on: July 2, 2024 at 5:54 pm By Matthew Distefano

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During a recent episode of the Heretic Happy Hour podcast, I, along with Keith Giles, Desimber Rose, Eve_wasframed, and John Fugelsang, shed some light on the complex and often contentious intersection of politics and the Bible in modern American society. This panel discussion, anchored in recent Pew Research findings, delves into the implications of intertwining religious values with legislative processes, and critically examines how contemporary interpretations of Christian values align (or rather, misalign) with the teachings of Jesus Christ. The... Read more