Christian nationalism is becoming an increasingly prominent theme in Chaffee County, Colorado, where local religious leaders are actively encouraging political engagement based on religious beliefs. During a recent sermon, Pastor Zach Bearss of ClearView Community Church called for Christians to seek public office to align government policies closer to Christian teachings.
This message reflects a broader trend in the region, where religious influences shape political ideologies and actions. The Chaffee County Patriots (CCP) Town Halls have served as a platform for speakers to connect biblical principles with political advocacy, presenting materials that guide voters in evaluating candidates through a religious lens.
A notable example is the Truth and Liberty election guide, distributed near ClearView Community Church, which frames political questions based on Christian values. Topics include abortion and parental authority in education. According to the guide, such issues are central to assessing a candidate’s suitability for office, thus intertwining religious beliefs with political choices.
On August 13, at a CCP Town Hall, speaker Blane Clark provided a biblical rationale for limiting the role of government. He stated that assistance should come from families, churches, and individuals rather than governmental bodies, arguing that rights are bestowed by God and should not be regulated by the state. This perspective shapes how local residents assess candidates’ positions and the legitimacy of policies.
Pastor Bearss has also weighed in on local school board decisions, such as the Buena Vista School Board’s recognition of June as Pride Month. In a September sermon, he criticized the decision as a political agenda misaligned with Christian values, prompting church members to consider running for office to enact change according to their beliefs.
Despite his strong rhetoric on political involvement, Bearss stated in an October 11 interview that ClearView Community Church does not identify as Christian nationalist and has no official political stance. He emphasized the church’s mission as distinct from seeking power and affirmed that they could operate under leaders who do not share their faith. This statement adds complexity to the perceived relationship between the church and political activism in Chaffee County.
A recent community gathering, “See You at the Pole,” which involved students’ religious expressions, drew scrutiny. The Buena Vista School District noted concerns about external involvement from ClearView Church. Bearss framed the gathering’s reaction as a matter of public misunderstanding in his sermon, highlighting the challenges of integrating religious activities within public schools.
At the same time, the CCP has been actively promoting political organization among its members. During a September 17 town hall, election activist Douglas Frank outlined steps for community members to gather data and address perceived election issues, supporting it with biblical analogies. These messages aim to mobilize faith-driven political action, suggesting a deeper intertwining of Christian beliefs and local governance.
The discussions at CCP meetings and the sermons from local pastors signal a concerted effort to shape public policies in alignment with specific religious teachings. However, such advocacy raises questions about the implications for those who may not share the same beliefs, particularly regarding access to public institutions and rights.
The evolving dynamics in Chaffee County reflect a significant shift in how religion influences local governance and community engagement, with the potential for broader implications across the region.
