Renowned theologians respond to a defining moment in American public life

A timely new book calls Christians to re-examine the core teachings of the gospel and its relevance in American public life.

Have Mercy: Following Jesus in Politically Perilous Times (Divinity & Discourse) was prompted in part by a widely noted moment at the January 2025 National Prayer Service at Washington National Cathedral, when Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde addressed newly inaugurated President Donald Trump with a direct appeal for mercy. That brief but powerful call captured national attention and crystallized a larger question its authors sought to explore: What does faithfulness to the gospel require in times of political upheaval?

In an era of political upheaval, this book will strengthen core Christian convictions through the power of the Gospel.

In Have Mercy, leading theologians, ethicists, liturgists, and pastors reflect on how enduring Christian commitments have taken on fresh urgency. Preaching the Good News, welcoming the stranger, caring for the poor, healing the sick, and speaking truth to power are no longer abstract ideals, but practices that increasingly intersect with public debate. Have Mercy represents the culmination of the Have Mercy Initiative, a multi-faceted project that has included a series of essays, a five-installment webinar, and a major lecture.

With a foreword by Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe and an afterword by Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, Have Mercy brings together a diverse range of voices. Each essay focuses on a foundational teaching, such as “Love your neighbor” or “Judge not, lest you be judged,” offering both theological depth and practical wisdom for clergy, lay leaders, and faith communities navigating an uncertain and divided moment.

Kyle Lambelet is associate professor of ethics and director of the Saint Nicholas Center for Faith and Justice at the Virginia Theological Seminary. He lives in Alexandria, Virginia.

Ruthanna B. Hooke is professor of homiletics and program director of “Preaching Congregations” at the Virginia Theological Seminary. She lives in Alexandria, Virginia.

Altagracia Perez-Bullard, PhD, is the associate dean of multicultural ministries and assistant professor of practical theology at the Virginia Theological Seminary. She lives in Alexandria, Virginia.

For more information, please contact Anne Zaccardelli at azaccardelli@cpg.org.

Have Mercy
Following Jesus in Politically Perilous Times
9781640659957
Paperback, $26.95
1 September 2026
208 Pages

Divinity & Discourse
New directions in Religion, Theology, & Culture.