By Dr. Mark Creech|March 2, 2025
I was the executive director and lobbyist for the Christian Action League of North Carolina for over twenty-five years. In that role, I dedicated my life to representing our supporting churches and advocating for the biblical principles and moral values that have long made our great state and nation a “shining city on a hill.” Operating out of a biblical worldview, I worked to bring hope, clarity, and purpose to the legislative process, believing that public policy rooted in Christian values would lead to a better, more just society.
Yet, as many know, even the most steadfast journeys are not without their trials. Over the years, the Christian Action League faced significant financial challenges. Despite its noble mission, the organization operated in arrears so frequently that the Board of Directors lost the comfort and confidence needed to sustain the work. In August of 2024, after much reflection and heartache, the decision was made to dissolve the Christian Action League of North Carolina—a decision that felt much like the death of a very close friend and the closing of a cherished chapter in my life. I would be dishonest if I said I wasn’t profoundly affected. It was a moment of deep sorrow, of questioning whether I would ever again have the opportunity to stand in the hallowed halls of our state legislature and continue the work for which I was so passionate.
But the Psalmist declared, “They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him” (Ps. 126:5-6). In other words, even in our darkest moments of sorrow and hardship, God’s people can be certain that he is preparing a future filled with joy and blessing. And so, with great joy and renewed commitment, I can share with you that my journey has not ended—it has only evolved.
I am now honored to join Return America, a vibrant organization that shares the values and vision I championed for two and a half decades at the helm of the Christian Action League. Return America is not merely a successor to my previous work; it is a powerful and energetic grassroots movement that has already made its mark by mobilizing thousands at pivotal rallies in our state—whether at the Halifax Mall or the State Capitol Building. Their courage was further evidenced when they secured a historic court victory against unconstitutional restrictions our former Governor imposed on the churches across the state during the COVID-19 pandemic—a victory underscoring their commitment to upholding our sacred religious liberties.
In accepting the role of Return America’s first legislative liaison, I am embracing an opportunity to continue my ministry with even greater effectiveness for the kingdom of God. Under the guidance of Dr. Ron Baity—a man whose clear vision and steadfast dedication to biblical principles has been a beacon for tens of thousands—Return America is poised to carry the Gospel and the integration of Christian values into our state and nation’s halls of power with renewed hope and action. I am committed with every fiber of my being to an unwavering faith in the transformative power of the Gospel of Christ, not only for the soul but for all of life, including our politics.
Most people know me from my years with the Christian Action League. For those who don’t know me, I want you to know, as well as the legislative bodies I seek to influence, that I am not some rabble-rousing political antagonist or a distant voice—someone unempathetic and detached from people’s everyday experiences and struggles of life—but someone who is firmly convinced that if we seek to find the heart and mind of God in our varied, complex problems, we will not be disappointed or unnecessarily constrained. We will find the purpose, peace, and prosperity our hearts earnestly yearn for.
As I enter this new season with Return America, I carry the lessons learned over a quarter of a century of Christian service in the public square. I remain committed to the only work that really transforms hearts and communities, and I hope to walk this journey with you—supporting each other in prayer, financial support, and any other means toward our shared pursuit of a God-fearing, free, and flourishing nation.
Here are a few practical ways for you to stay connected.
If you are not already there, visit my personal blog, www.revmarkcreech.org. Sign up to receive my emails containing regular information about the legislative initiatives Return America is addressing. Also included are my editorials, guest editorials, sermons, pertinent news stories, and many other great articles that will educate and inspire action. This is a way you can actually have a positive influence, for Christ’s sake, on political activity.
While signing up for my blog, remember to visit Return America’s website, www.returnamerica.org, and sign up for their emails and action alerts.
After being sidelined for a few months, I cannot sufficiently express my gratitude to God, Dr. Ron Baity, and the Board of Return America for getting me back in the fight to answer God’s call on my life in a new role.
May God grant each of us the wisdom, strength, and discernment to live out his truth in every facet of our lives. Let us move forward together, confident that his guiding hand and anointing are upon us.
“For the gifts and calling of God are without repentance” (Romans 11;29).
Please pray for Return America. Please pray for me.