Episode Details

Jerry Eicher of Anabaptist Theological Perspectives highlights a viral performance by a small Calvary Bible School choir in Conoco Rock, Arkansas: a layered, high-quality rendition of Dovid Edel’s 2018 song "Taddy My King." He praises the choir’s excellence and unusual choice to sing a Jewish song in English, and invites listeners to watch and appreciate the music.

Using the performance as a springboard, Jerry discusses broader themes: the historic separation of church and state, how some modern governments have assumed moral and charitable roles traditionally held by the church, and the cultural consequences of that shift. He shares anecdotes from Anabaptist communities (including COVID-era responses and a custody case involving an Amish minister) to illustrate a growing reluctance within some conservative churches to openly engage with controversial or cross-cultural expressions.

Key points: the surprising and beautiful musical crossover, concern about the state’s growing moral authority, and encouragement to listen to the choir’s rendition while reflecting on what this moment reveals about Anabaptist identity and cultural pressures.