Proclaiming Love and Justice in Troubling Times

"Part of the reason why last year we had so many join us in quite a few years of the life of this congregation is our message, what we're living into as a church community, which is compassion, love, care, and welcoming of all. While that rainbow flag that's outside may be vulgar and offensive to some, it is a symbol of hope to so many others." [00:00:05]

"Is that if you, as a person who believes in God, a Christian, is offended by messages that come from the pulpit of love and compassion and care for your fellow human, you're doing it wrong. Because if I'm not mistaken, I believe that's why you all are here. That's why we collect for the pantry. That's why we collect for the backpack project." [00:01:09]

"Policies are being enacted that target the most vulnerable among us, children, the elderly, immigrants, the LGBTQ community, and those who struggle daily to afford food, housing, and health care. I'm not shy to share now that I've had some time to process even though I haven't talked to my therapist about it yet that because of our new national administration our new president I do carry a lot of anxiety not just because some of what he is trying to pass and do affects me directly because in turn look around you a lot of those policies and executive orders will affect you my congregation my fellow human my flock." [00:06:36]

"Imagine walking into a doctor's office with a broken arm, only for the doctor to focus on treating a paper cut. This is how our leaders are acting right now, distracting us with smoke and mirrors while ignoring the real crisis. As people of faith, we cannot hate. We should not hate. But we must be vocal and hold our leaders accountable for their actions and lack of action, whether or not you voted for them." [00:09:17]

"Silence in the face of oppression is not an option for those who follow Christ. We must raise our voices with love and conviction. As believers, we are called to speak out against injustice. But not. Let me repeat. Let me repeat that. But not with hatred. It can be very easy for us to say, I hate so -and -so. It's easy to become overwhelmed by anger. But scripture reminds us, let all that you do be done in love." [00:11:17]

"Imagine a gardener pruning a tree. The cuts may seem harsh, but they are necessary for healthy growth. Our words of truth must prune away injustice while nurturing compassion and unity. Think once again of Bishop Oscar Romero. He was outspoken against his government, calling for the same thing as the bishop described. This past week, compassion and love." [00:12:11]

"Fear is rapid in our communities and you don't have to look far. Look within the distance. This week alone, open your eyes if you have not. Peek outside of your box. Take those blinders off. because as you can imagine, I've heard lots of anxiety and fear coming from different angles, not just the Latino, Latina, Latine population." [00:14:39]

"Think of those things, of where this person is normally, to where they felt it was safer to come and talk to me and enter through our doors to talk to an ordained member of clergy versus carrying it by themselves. What does that say? The fear is real. The anxiety is real. Many are anxious or scared." [00:16:45]

"Mental health advocate church it's very important that you keep an eye out for these signs that if you or someone you know is experiencing what I'm about to say you reach out you have my cell phone number I don't care what time of the day it is you call and among us being scared and being anxious people are experiencing suicidal thoughts due to the policies and some are attempting to die by such acts what does that say God God has not given up given us a spirit of fear the power of love and self -discipline as the body of Christ we must respond with hope think of a candle in a dark room." [00:17:35]

"Nothing radical, nothing radical is involved in kindness. Kindness, compassion, is simply living out God's love. Yet kindness is often met with ridicule in today's divided climate. In the name of our God, I ask you to have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now. In the name of our God, I ask you to have mercy upon the people in our country who are scared now." [00:19:07]

"If we believe in God How can we take offense At a message of kindness How Can we ridicule those seeking To extend God's love to others We must not be distracted By fear, mongering Or divisive rhetoric Instead Focus on tangible issues Affordable housing Food security And health care Imagine Building a house On shaky foundation No matter How beautiful it looks It will collapse If the basics aren't addressed." [00:20:19]

"Our faith compels us to speak out, to stand firm in love, and to advocate for the vulnerable. As we leave today, how will we embody Christ's mission daily? Will we choose to be a voice of hope and justice, or will you remain silent? Let's pray." [00:21:59]