Dear friends in Christ,
Lately nearly everyone I talk with tells me they find it difficult to watch the news these days. Whatever our political affiliation, we can agree that our leaders could be doing a better job. Whatever our views on any number of vital issues, we can agree that division is endemic.
What are we to do? It seems to me there are three ways we can respond, if we are able to do so. Perhaps just getting through a tough time is enough, and if that’s where you are, do what you can to survive. Ask for help if you need it, and offer help if you have it to give.
Here are three ways to respond:
- We can have conversations across lines of division to learn more about others and to work for reconciliation. If you’re not sure where to start, Forward Movement is offering a new, free ChurchNext class, Civil Conversations in Uncivil Times with Ray Suarez.
- We can pray for our leaders and our nation, especially as the United States heads into an election. Forward Movement has partnered with the Episcopal Church’s Office of Government Relations to offer a nine-day season of prayer. This novena includes simple prayers from our Book of Common Prayer and a litany to say each day, starting one week before the election and ending the day after. Learn more online.
- We can work to change our world. If we want more justice, we can be more just. If we want more compassion, we can be more compassionate. If we want more truth, we can speak the truth in love.
Despair is an understandable place to find ourselves, but ultimately, we Christians know that death and destruction never have the last word.
Amidst the chaos and confusion of this time, let us all seek the peace of Christ that passes all understanding.
O God of peace, who hast taught us that in returning and rest we shall be saved, in quietness and confidence shall be our strength: By the might of thy Spirit lift us, we pray thee, to thy presence, where we may be still and know that thou art God; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Yours faithfully,
Scott Gunn
Executive Director
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