A statement from the St. Paul staff
The tragedy and turmoil of recent weeks in our nation has shaken all of us. Inspired by the life of Jesus Christ, we take seriously the mandate to love God and love our neighbor. Our Christian faith compels us to speak out against all systems and structures of racism that have permeated American society for centuries – realities that we abhor, but from which many of us have benefited. At this fresh moment of pain and awareness, we affirm that black lives not only matter, but that they are to be deeply valued. The world we believe God desires, and that we want to help build, is one where racial injustices cease, everyday lives flourish, and the dignity of all people is prized. This is our hope. We commit ourselves to learning more and to building up one another in our work for racial justice, and we look forward to growing together with the congregation as effective agents for change in ourselves, in our congregation, and in our world.
– The Staff of St. Paul Lutheran Church
Marta Lucas
Thank You!
Don Garrison
It would be difficult to argue against the staff statement that “Our Christian faith compels us to speak out against all systems and structures of racism that have permeated American society for centuries .” My difficulty lies in discerning what these systems and structures of racism are. Until I figure this out, I’ll continue to try hard to love God and all people.
Pamela Spear
I appreciate the discernment and time that went into developing this statement. This is never an easy task. I imagine that by the final draft everyone involved spiritually grew from the effort.
mary caruso
Well done!