Former President Jimmy Carter reportedly considered the 1971 John Lennon hit “Imagine” as his favorite song. However, its use at his state funeral ceremony has sparked controversy on social media, with critics arguing that it was not appropriate for a memorial service in a Christian church.
During Carter’s funeral service at the Washington National Cathedral, fellow Georgian Trisha Yearwood and her husband Garth Brooks performed the song, which they had also performed at former first lady Rosalynn Carter’s wake the previous year. The country star couple had worked with Carter on Habitat for Humanity projects.
Social media erupted in debate over the performance of the song, given its lyrics that reject religion.
“Imagine there’s no heaven / It’s easy if you try / No Hell below us / Above us, only sky,” the first line of the song goes.
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Former President Jimmy Carter. (Emma Woodhead/Fox Digital)
Following the performance, various social media users, including prominent conservative figures, raised doubts about using the song.
“Imagine there is no heaven — Sung for someone who is a devout Southern Baptist,” remarked one user.
Another user expressed skepticism, stating, “I don’t think Jimmy would appreciate the ‘no religion’ part.”
Notably, some criticized the song’s inclusion, with one user calling it an “insult” to have “Imagine” played at Carter’s funeral.
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Additionally, comments from individuals like Mollie Z. Hemingway, Erick Erickson, and Bishop Robert Barron highlighted concerns about the song’s message conflicting with the religious context of the funeral.
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Despite the backlash, some defended the song’s performance, arguing that its lyrics actually acknowledge the existence of heaven.
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It is important to note that Lennon had complex views on Christianity and religion, engaging with Christian figures despite his skepticism.
