Bishop Patrick Wooden recently delivered a stirring response to controversial comments made by Pastor Jamal Bryant, who harshly criticized African-Americans attending a Black History Month celebration at the White House.

Bryant’s remarks, which urged Black people to “go stand with your people,” sparked debate about political loyalty, racial unity, and the role of faith in public life.

Bishop Wooden’s countermessage emphasized inclusion, political independence, and the primacy of spiritual conviction over partisan divides.

The controversy ignited when Bryant publicly berated African-Americans who joined the White House festivities with the president, implying that celebrating with the administration was a betrayal of the Black community.

He suggested that true loyalty required standing apart and opposing such events.

Bishop Wooden took issue with this divisive stance, questioning Bryant’s rhetoric and urging a more inclusive approach.

Wooden highlighted the absurdity of the notion that Black identity must be tied exclusively to the Democratic Party.

He pointed out that unlike other racial groups, African-Americans are often expected to vote as a monolithic bloc, which he described as “stupid” and self-defeating.

According to Wooden, this rigid political alignment has contributed to the community spending “half the time or maybe even more out of power.”

He argued that political parties only compete for votes when they are uncertain of securing them, and since Democrats often take the Black vote for granted, the community receives little in return.

Instead, Wooden encouraged political independence, urging his listeners to vote based on conviction rather than party loyalty.

He emphasized that one’s political affiliation does not define their Blackness but rather reflects their participation in the democratic process.

This message called for unity beyond partisan lines and a rejection of divisive rhetoric that fractures the community.

Bishop Wooden also addressed the question of whose side God is on in political matters.

He criticized the Democratic Party’s platform on issues such as same-sex marriage, gender transition procedures for minors, and abortion rights, suggesting that these stances conflict with biblical teachings.

Wooden argued that supporting such policies requires dismissing significant portions of scripture, challenging his congregation to consider spiritual values when engaging in politics.

Despite these critiques, Wooden maintained a respectful tone, emphasizing that his focus is on preaching the gospel rather than any political agenda.

He shared that he does not inquire about the political affiliations of his church members, respecting individual choice and freedom.

His appeal was for thoughtful reflection and prayerful engagement rather than anger or division.

Wooden’s sermon also included a critique of political arguments based solely on wealth or status, dismissing such reasoning as inadequate.

He called on his congregation to “just think” and use discernment when evaluating political messages and leaders.

In closing, Bishop Wooden expressed gratitude for everyone celebrating Black History Month, regardless of political differences, and cautioned against allowing divisive rhetoric to overshadow shared heritage and unity.

His response to Jamal Bryant’s remarks serves as a call for inclusivity, critical thinking, and spiritual grounding in navigating the complex intersection of race, politics, and faith.