Will Democracy Survive

An Epiphany and the Darkside

Anni's mind was swirling with questions and uncertainties as she made her way to Father Dunkin's parish office. She sought solace and guidance from the priest, whose wisdom and insight she deeply respected. Father Dunkin, with his Doctor of Theology degree and his penchant for Star Wars memorabilia, was a trusted confidant.

Upon entering the office, Anni was greeted by the familiar sight of religious artifacts mingling with Star Wars collectibles. She couldn't help but smile at the eclectic decor as Father Dunkin welcomed her warmly. The priest had been following the recent events at City Hall closely and was not surprised by Anni wanting to meet with him.  Anni wasted no time in delving into the heart of her concerns.

Father Dunkin, true to form, initiated the conversation with a Star Wars reference, likening Pastor Vic's actions to the fall of Anakin Skywalker to the dark side. Anni pondered his words thoughtfully, recognizing the parallels between fiction and reality.

As they delved deeper into the discussion, Anni shared her evolving understanding of the situation. She expressed her growing realization that Pastor Vic's actions were not solely driven by the church's influence but were also fueled by far-right groups using social media and the church pulpit to wage a crusade against perceived adversaries, both real and imagined.

Anni spoke passionately about the implications of laws like the W.O.K.E act and anti-LGBTQ legislation, seeing them as attempts to co-opt the church for political gain. She lamented the casualties of this ideological war, including the fundamental rights of citizens caught in the crossfire.

Father Dunkin listened intently, nodding in agreement as Anni articulated her thoughts. He offered words of encouragement and support, affirming her commitment to speak out against injustice.  Anni informed Father Dunkin that her first City Council meeting was on Monday, and she would include her thoughts on the matter in her introductory speech to the council.  As Anni prepared to leave, Father Dunkin bestowed a heartfelt blessing upon her, but before she walked out he invoked a familiar phrase: "May the force be with you.", at which they both had a laugh. 

Across town it was Sunday morning and Pastor Vic's congregation was buzzing with anticipation. Pastor Vic, facing allegations of bribery, saw his church as the perfect platform to rally his supporters and denounce the accusations against him. The congregation gathered eagerly, whispering among themselves about the scandal that had gripped their community.

With an air of confidence, Pastor Vic ascended the pulpit, his booming voice filling the sanctuary. He began his sermon with fervor, invoking familiar themes of faith and righteousness. However, it wasn't long before he veered into more contentious territory.

Drawing inspiration from the playbook of former President Donald Trump, Pastor Vic painted himself as a victim of a politically motivated witch hunt. He denounced the allegations against him as fabrications concocted by his opponents to tarnish his reputation and undermine his authority.

"We've seen this before, brothers and sisters," he thundered, his words punctuated by fervent nods from his loyal congregation. "Just like our President Trump, I'm being targeted by those who seek to silence the voice of true patriots."

He wove a narrative of persecution, casting himself as a martyr for the cause of conservative values. He railed against the secular forces he claimed were conspiring to destroy the foundations of their society, using his own predicament as evidence of the corruption and deceit that lurked in the shadows.

Throughout his sermon, Pastor Vic employed rhetorical flourishes reminiscent of Trump's bombastic style, appealing to emotions rather than reason. He vilified his accusers, portraying them as enemies of the church and champions of godlessness.

But amidst the fervor and applause, there were whispers of doubt among some members of the congregation. A few dared to question the veracity of Pastor Vic's claims, wondering if perhaps there was some truth to the allegations against him.

As Pastor Vic concluded his sermon with a prayer for divine intervention and vindication, the congregation erupted into applause, energized by his impassioned defense. But outside the church walls, the town remained divided, with uncertainty looming over the future of both Pastor Vic and the community he claimed to represent.

Next up is Anni's first City Council Meeting