Pete Hegseth leads a holy war with other Crusaders

In recent years, the intersection of religion and politics has become increasingly prominent, provoking discussions on how deeply these two realms can intertwine. This phenomenon is not only reshaping political discourse but also influencing the fabric of society. At the center of this debate are figures like Pete Hegseth, who exemplify a growing movement that sees warfare through a religious lens. Understanding this shift requires a closer look at the networks fostering these ideologies.

The Rise of Classical Christian Education

In 2020, I visited a high-school gymnasium in Moscow, Idaho, a place where Doug Wilson preached to an enthusiastic congregation every Sunday. This venue, the Logos School, is part of a larger movement known as the Association of Classical Christian Schools (ACCS), which Wilson helped establish in 1993. By the time of my visit, ACCS had expanded significantly, with hundreds of schools across the United States and into Canada.

The mission of the ACCS is to promote what they term “Classical Christian Education.” This curriculum is characterized by a strong emphasis on placing God at the core of all teaching, while also advocating a Western-centric worldview heavily influenced by Greek and Roman thought. Students are encouraged to engage with a fundamentalist interpretation of the Bible, which is seen as the infallible word of God—a perspective referred to as inerrancy.

The atmosphere at Logos School exemplifies a unique blend of civilizational pride and religious fervor. During my visit, I observed that the congregation had little regard for COVID-19 safety measures, a reflection of their belief in divine protection. One congregant explained, “Our prayers protect us here,” showcasing a mindset that sees themselves as part of a chosen group.

The Surreal Experience of Worship

The service I attended created an almost surreal atmosphere. The gymnasium quickly filled with congregants, while banners depicting armored Knights Templar from the Crusades adorned the space. I noted young men fervently engaged in prayer, and the presence of children and pregnant women added layers of complexity to the imagery of a community deeply entrenched in its beliefs.

Sitting among the congregation, I was acutely aware of the tensions present. A man with a military-style haircut, armed and stationed behind me, was there purportedly for protection due to previous threats against the church. This sense of vigilance set the tone for the sermon that followed.

The Message of Doug Wilson

Doug Wilson's sermon was a powerful encapsulation of the themes I had observed. He spoke passionately about the struggle between good and evil, asserting that Christianity is the only moral framework capable of governing the world. In his discourse, he cited 1 Thessalonians, invoking imagery of “children of light” preparing for an apocalyptic battle against the “darkness.”

With the symbolism of the Crusades hanging over him, Wilson's message took on a martial tone, suggesting that his followers were not simply awaiting salvation but actively engaged in a spiritual warfare. This framing raises critical questions about the nature of faith and its implications for contemporary society.

The Pentagon Sermon and Its Implications

In February, Wilson found himself at the Pentagon, where he delivered a sermon at an event attended by military officers and defense personnel, invited by Pete Hegseth, a prominent figure in the conservative movement. His message remained consistent, emphasizing themes of righteousness and moral superiority against perceived evil.

During this event, Hegseth recounted his collaboration on a book advocating for a return to Classical Christian education, echoing sentiments that Marxist ideologies have infiltrated American education. This book was published shortly after Hegseth enrolled his children in an ACCS school and joined Wilson's congregation.

Hegseth's statements at the Pentagon were revealing. He expressed a collective acknowledgment of human fallibility and the need for divine grace—a stark contrast to the tumultuous personal history that includes allegations of serious misconduct. This transformation reflects a deeper ideological shift within segments of American society.

Righteous Violence and Its Consequences

The fervor with which Hegseth speaks about warfare raises serious ethical questions. During a subsequent prayer meeting, he expressed a desire for “righteous violence” in the name of God, suggesting that military action against perceived enemies was a divine obligation. This rhetoric is alarming, especially considering the ongoing global conflicts and the complexities they involve.

• Hegseth's call to “give them wisdom” and “overwhelming violence against those who deserve no mercy” highlights a dangerous interpretation of religious duty.
• Pope Leo XIV's response to such sentiments, denouncing prayers from those who wage war as being rejected by God, underscores the contrasting views within Christianity.
• Such radical ideologies can complicate the moral landscape of warfare, as they may justify actions that would otherwise be deemed unacceptable.

The Ideological Foundation of Modern Warfare

The intertwining of religious fervor and military action in Hegseth’s rhetoric reflects a broader movement that advocates for a more combative stance in American foreign policy. His comments about “tactical retreat” and preparing for future offensives reveal strategic thinking that blends military and ideological goals.

In a subsequent appearance, Hegseth emphasized that “all of this is metaphorical,” attempting to temper the implications of his earlier statements. However, the reality of ongoing military actions cannot be so easily dismissed.

The Cultural Shift and Its Broader Implications

The military, under Hegseth’s influence, appears to be adopting a more crusading mentality, where leaders feel justified in utilizing religious language to frame their missions. This shift raises concerns about the potential normalization of extremist rhetoric within military ranks.

The Military Religious Freedom Foundation reported a surge in complaints from service members regarding the use of extremist Christian language, indicating that the blending of faith and military duty is becoming commonplace.

Concluding Thoughts on a Troubling Trend

Hegseth and Wilson's partnership exemplifies a disturbing trend where conservative ideologies permeate military and political spheres. Their shared beliefs not only influence their followers but also have tangible effects on U.S. foreign policy. The growing network of educational institutions and religious organizations continues to shape a generation of individuals who may see themselves as “holy warriors.”

This movement raises significant questions about the future of American democracy and the role of faith in governance. As these ideologies continue to evolve, they may redefine what it means to serve both God and country in the context of modern warfare.