Bishop Patrick Wooden’s recent address has stirred significant attention for its bold critique of pastors who have spoken against conservative figure Charlie Kirk.

Wooden refuses to accept the widespread labeling of Kirk’s views as hateful without tangible proof, pointing out a glaring omission among prominent preachers who failed to present any actual examples of hate speech from Kirk.

Wooden begins by reminding his audience that hatred has no place in the hearts of born-again Christians.

He asserts that hatred toward any group—white, black, Hispanic—is incompatible with the path to heaven.

Yet, he challenges the tendency to brand every disagreement as hate, particularly criticizing pastors who accuse Kirk of dedicating his life to spreading hate without citing any specific instances or evidence.

According to Wooden, this tactic relies on the ignorance of congregants who do not verify claims independently, unlike the biblical Bereans who examined the scriptures daily.

The bishop further decries the divisive atmosphere such accusations create, noting that disagreement over issues like Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) does not automatically make one hateful.

He acknowledges that many black people oppose DEI initiatives, yet they are unfairly labeled as hateful by some religious leaders.

This, Wooden argues, only fuels polarization and animosity within communities.

One of the most striking parts of Wooden’s message is his rebuttal of the narrative that black Americans cannot succeed in the United States.

He points to the wealth and success of many black individuals, including some pastors themselves, who enjoy luxurious lifestyles with private jets, expensive clothes, and jewelry.

Wooden challenges the victim mentality that suggests systemic barriers prevent black success, highlighting that these prosperous individuals have achieved their wealth in America and should not propagate the idea that blacks are inherently oppressed or incapable of thriving.

Wooden also addresses historical misconceptions about slavery and reparations.

He notes that California, a state that never had slavery, recently considered reparations, which he sees as an example of misinformation being spread to an uninformed public.

He stresses the importance of understanding history accurately, noting that the United States is approaching its 250th anniversary, making claims of 400 years of slavery factually incorrect.

Throughout his speech, Wooden emphasizes the importance of faith and courage.

He recalls his own spiritual journey and the biblical mandate to “fear not” those who can harm the body but to fear God alone.

He warns that naming the name of Christ will increasingly invite hostility in politics, religion, and entertainment.

Wooden is particularly concerned about the casual and disrespectful use of Jesus’ name in popular culture, contrasting it with the reverence it deserves.

He cautions believers not to use the name of Jesus as a mere expression or swear word, as doing so diminishes its power and significance.

This sacrilegious trend, he suggests, is part of a broader cultural attack on Christianity.

In conclusion, Bishop Patrick Wooden’s message is a call to stand firm in faith, reject false narratives, and maintain reverence for the sacred.

He challenges both religious leaders and believers to seek truth and resist the divisive tactics that pit communities against each other.

His words resonate as a reminder that spiritual freedom and courage are essential in navigating today’s complex social and religious landscape.