Chaplain Questions Core Christian Beliefs

The Rev. Babs Miller, a lesbian chaplain at the church of Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico, has stirred controversy by questioning the traditional beliefs surrounding Jesus Christ. In a recent video, she expressed skepticism about the very existence of Jesus and even denied that He died for humanity’s sins.

Miller, who is an open lesbian and returned from retirement to serve at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in 2022, shared her thoughts during a conversation captured on an undercover video. She expressed doubts about foundational Christian doctrines, claiming that she finds it uncertain whether Jesus actually existed. She went so far as to dismiss the virgin birth, referring to it as an idea stemming from pagan traditions.

“We encourage people to think for themselves,” she stated, while being questioned about beliefs in Jesus’s virgin birth. “It’s similar to what they say in 12-step programs: Take what you want and leave the rest,” she added, suggesting that traditional views may offend those who cling to them.

While continuing her line of thought, Miller declared, “We have no way of knowing if Jesus really existed any more than we know if the original Buddha existed.” Ultimately, she claimed that whether Jesus existed or not is not particularly significant to her. “The message attributed to someone named Jesus could all be fabricated for all I know. And God, as depicted in the Old Testament, seems more vengeful than loving,” she observed, alluding to misunderstandings about biblical events and the role of Jesus in reconciling humanity to God.

As she questioned Jesus’s existence, she also criticized His purpose, suggesting He was “political” rather than sacrificial. “He was put on that cross not to save us,” she insisted. “Jesus was executed because Rome saw Him as a threat.”

When posed with the idea of Jesus as a “social justice warrior,” Miller quickly concurred. “Yes, that perspective makes much more sense to me than the idea of a God sacrificing His Son for humanity,” she remarked, showcasing a clear lack of understanding of the biblical narrative about Jesus’s purpose and sacrifice.

This theological perspective is not limited to Miller. The head pastor of Talarico’s church, Rev. Jim Rigby, has previously indicated doubt about the resurrection, suggesting that humans created the narrative to make it more palatable. He questioned whether anyone should base their life on uncertain claims from the past, further diverging from traditional Christian teachings.

Rigby expressed that the focus should be on recognizing the sacredness in all beings, including nature. He emphasized a connection to the present moment over long-standing religious beliefs, questioning the relevance of Jesus’s resurrection. It seems both Miller and Rigby share a perspective that significantly departs from mainstream Christian theology.

Talarico, for his part, has shown support for these views, raising concerns among traditionalists about his alignment with such non-biblical interpretations in his political life.