By Carl Stagner

History reveals plenty of pastors whose calls to ministry have coincided with entrances into the political arena. Though arguments can be made that the decision to mix politics and the pulpit is a dangerous one, the examples of Christian influence on the direction of local, state, and national government are numerous and largely positive. Especially in local politics, two Kansas pastors have discovered opportunities to extend their reach through civic involvements. In so doing, Clint McBroom and Presephoni Fuller, respectfully, have established connections and helped their communities in ways not possible otherwise.

“Being a pastor did not guide my thoughts into politics,” Pastor Clint explains. “I saw a need in our community for good leadership and a fiscally conservative mind being at the table. Perhaps some of the skills I learned as a pastor (helping others, seeing others potential, knowing that everyone has a future, money management, leadership) helped me feel qualified to serve.”

Clint McBroom is the pastor of First Church of God in Newton. Presephoni Fuller is the pastor of South Church of God in Liberal. Their cities are nearly four hours apart and the two don’t cross paths often. But they each share a common love for the community in which God placed them, and therefore a desire to see each community flourish.

“The number of voiceless people in our society is unbelievable,” Pastor Presephoni reflects. “This decision is for the people. We can make a difference if we are willing to make a difference—to be a voice at the table, and not just cheer others on, but get involved. It is a risk worth taking.”

Clint’s term as mayor concludes at the end of this year following three years of service in the role; after that, the fourth year of the term he’ll finish as a city commissioner. Presephoni’s political career is only beginning, as she was just elected as a commissioner for Seward County on August 2. Like Clint, Presephoni also wears many other hats in the community.

Clint McBroom cites Jerry Falwell, credited with the familiar quote: “The idea that Christianity and politics don’t mix was a lie created by the devil to keep Christians out of politics.” Clint expounds, “I have heard a lot lately, especially in Kansas as we sought to overturn a constitutional right to abortion, about separation of church and state. Unfortunately, the bulk of people are extremely misinformed on what separation of church and state really means. What people assume is that religion can have no place in government—the idea that what guides our Christian values (morals, practices, policies) has no place in government. In reality the separation of church and state, in its original meaning, was a one-way street. It was to keep the government out of the work of the local religious entities and that the government would never create a national religion. I love to talk about it with people, but it has to be approached in a Christlike manner with grace and understanding. People don’t know what they don’t know.”

Clint McBroom working on his campaign.

Presephoni has a similar understanding, and can’t imagine not doing whatever she can to help government and local structures work for the betterment of society—for the betterment of people. “Often, I say community matters,” she explains. “It really does matter. My love for this community is shown by the love we share with them monthly and daily as a church, pastor, and future politician. We become the hands and feet of Jesus, loving our neighbor as ourselves. We don’t stand alone in this quest. With this step [into politics], our net is cast a little farther, and our influence can benefit the entire community, not just a few. We need wisdom and the grace of God to do so.”

Pastors Clint and Presephoni recognize the work is challenging and that the mix of politics and Christianity isn’t easy. Clint describes it as “tough, but so rewarding at the same time.” He sums up the sentiment of the two.

“We are a community of 20,000,” Clint concludes. “I never could have reached and built bridges as a pastor like I have been able to as a mayor. I have loved it and give all thanks to God for this opportunity. This year we celebrated (and partied) as it was our 150th city anniversary. This has created way more opportunity than in years past to be in front of people and just be a good example of Jesus to those who see me. I have prayed daily during my mayorship that God would use this opportunity to further the kingdom of God in Newton. I believe he has.”

Learn more about the Church of God movement at www.JesusIsTheSubject.org.

Feature (top) collage: Presephoni Fuller (left), Clint McBroom (right).