Doug Wilson, a controversial pastor and co-founder of the Communion of Reformed Evangelical Churches, recently characterized The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as a “non-Christian faith” and “polytheistic.” Wilson, whose church Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth attends, previously delivered a sermon at a Pentagon prayer service arranged by Hegseth.
These remarks follow a controversy involving a Pentagon list of recognized religions that initially categorized 21 faiths as “Christian” while listing the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints separately. Following backlash from Mormon lawmakers, the Pentagon released a revised list that removed the “Christian” label and stated its purpose is not to adjudicate theological debates but to ensure respect for all faiths.
The article highlights broader scrutiny of Hegseth’s affiliations and past controversies. Hegseth has previously expressed views aligned with Christian nationalism and has faced internal scrutiny regarding his own religious tattoos, which some military leadership previously flagged as potential indicators of extremism. Additionally, the report notes recent instances where Hegseth drew public mockery, such as reciting a prayer adapted from a fictional source in a movie.
