Rev. Jim Rigby, the longtime serving pastor of St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Austin, Texas, is facing renewed attention over his outspoken views on capitalism, American politics, Christianity and as well social issues.
Rigby is well-known because of his longstanding relationship with the Texas Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate, James Talarico. Talarico grew up attending St. Andrew’s, where Rigby baptized him, married his parents and later delivered the invocation at his swearing in ceremony. (They have both come a long way). Talarico has also identified Rigby as an important influence on his worldview.
Rigby’s preaching frequently moves beyond traditional theological discussions and into questions of economics, politics and social justice.
In a 2025 sermon based on Jesus’ teaching about God and money, Rigby described himself as a democratic socialist and argued that he could not think of a major American problem that could be solved within the existing confines of capitalism. He said that while capitalism may have served a historical purpose, society ultimately needs to place human beings above economic systems.
His criticism also extends to the way he believes government policies affect women. In the same sermon, Rigby argued that government restrictions on abortion can reduce women’s control over their own bodies, using the controversial phrase “breeding stock” to make his point.
Rigby has also been sharply critical of conservative political movements and has compared aspects of contemporary American politics with troubling periods in history. His political preaching has contributed to the wider debate surrounding the religious worldview that helped shape Talarico.
At the center of Rigby’s theology is an emphasis on compassion, human solidarity and what he considers the ethical teachings of Jesus. The Texas Tribune reported that Rigby avoids many traditional Christian prayers and creeds during services because he does not want non-Christians excluded, while describing his Christianity primarily through the principle of putting compassion first.
That approach has made St. Andrew’s a distinctive congregation within American Christianity. The church has been involved in issues including LGBTQ rights, immigration and opposition to Christian nationalism, while Talarico has repeatedly connected his own political philosophy to the church where he was raised.
Rigby’s views have consequently attracted both support and criticism. Supporters see his message as an attempt to place human dignity, compassion and justice at the center of Christian faith. Critics argue that his approach moves too far away from historic biblical Christianity and turns the pulpit into a platform for progressive political activism.
The renewed attention surrounding Rigby also highlights the unusual religious background of Talarico’s Senate campaign. His faith has become an important part of his public identity, while his longtime pastor’s theology continues to generate debate among Christians and political observers.
Ultimately, the discussion surrounding Rigby reflects a much larger question within American Christianity: How far can a church move toward political and social activism while still claiming to represent historic Christian teaching?
