Watching “Praying For Armageddon” what struck me was the look of the Christian fundamentalists in this documentary. I thought for a moment these were the same faces and personalities as in the “Freedom Convoy” which descended in Ottawa on 22January2022. Ostensibly their protest centred on COVID governmental restrictions on individual liberty but were much broader so the event resembled some right wing Trumpian rally of the disaffected Canadian style. There was also that same “look” of the militias storming about Washington on January 6th. A failed coup attempt? A Christian threat to democracy? Bible thumping akin to pounding on the war drums?
“Praying for Armageddon” follows or better said exposes Christian fundamentalist power in the United States attempting to shape U.S. foreign policy particularly in Israel and the Mid East. “Christian Zionists”, as they are referred to, cherry pick the Bible, believing there must first be a unified Israel threatened by hordes of non-believers wishing to exterminate it leading to a final battle where Christ will appear on a white horse and brandishing a bloody sword to deliver all good Christians from the barbarians. The blood shed will be up to the bridle of a horse! Those accepting Christ prior to the final battle will be “enraptured”.
Fundamentalist Christians desire Armageddon for their selfish salvation. And they exert tremendous influence in Washington attempting to have Biblical prophecy be United States foreign policy. Could this be why the United States refuses to support a ceasefire in Palestine? That would delay Armageddon. Could this be why the Trump administration infuriated Palestinians by agreeing to the relocation of its embassy to Jerusalem from Tel Aviv?
The reach of Christian fundamentalists in “Washington” and in the United States military is frightening. Politicians rub elbows with John Hagee a fundamentalist Christian and founder of “Christians United for Israel”. Then there is Ralph Drollinger with his Capitol Ministries in Washington giving “biblical clarity” to politicians, holds bible studies with members of Congress and at one point with the members of the Trump cabinet. That omnipresent fear, or is but a rallying cry against the LGBTQ community, abortion and just about any liberal thought in a goal to establish a theocracy. Yes the biggest component of the January 6th were Christian fundamentalists.
The Crusades are upon us again! Biker Gary Burd of the Mission M25 Ministry knights a rag tag group of those Crusaders. Yes I am becoming familiar with the Christian fundamentalist manner of thinking and dress. There is incredible similarity to the Trump nation!
Enough said. Worth a watch. Somewhat of a dramatic beginning with scenes of violence, war, civil disturbances, and natural disasters initially annoying but in the mindset of these Christian fundamentalists their imperative reality.
Directed by Tonje Hessen Schei and Michael Rowley.
RKS 2024 Film Rating 93/100.
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