Professor of contextual theology and ethics Craig L. Nessan, in his article Tear Down Magical Walls, suggests that congregations are summoned to form members who can connect faith and life. This requires adaptive change to turn congregations inside-out. Educational programs for all ages should begin to explore what faith means for daily life. Members should be…
A Place of Grace
Social Justice (Page 3)
From ELCA ADvocacy – July 16, 2021 U.S. representatives regularly return to their home districts to stay engaged with their constituents. Traditionally, August Recess is one such time – and while everyone needs some rest and relaxation, lawmakers are likely busy during this period with Town Halls, arranged meetings and other contact points that give you a…
An alternate expression of God’s Work Our Hands. If many little people, in many little places, do many little things, they can change the face of the earth.
“The crucifixion was an act of violence meant to silence Jesus and his gospel of liberation and hope.” After witnessing acts of violence this week, particularly against Black and Brown people, Bishop Eaton reminds us of all the ways our church has committed to do justice – on racism, on health care, on education, on…
4/20/2021 5:50:00 PM The trial of Derek Chauvin, the former Minnesota police officer charged with the killing of George Floyd, has riveted our national attention these past weeks, and now a verdict has been reached. Together with people around the world, we have anticipated the jury’s decision with troubled hearts. As members of the community…
Pastor Beth is offering a Zoom Book Study of “How to be an Anti-Racist” written by Ibram X. Kendi beginning on Thursday, May 6, at either 2 p.m. or 7 p.m. This class will be held each Thursday through June 10. You are asked to do some “homework” (about 40 pages of reading) prior to our first…
January 14, 2021 Dear Friends, Surrounded by turmoil and violence in our nation, it is more important than ever for Christ’s church to be a visible, public church. Filled with God’s grace and Spirit, we are set free to courageously bring God’s love, healing, and justice to all around us. In our Lutheran tradition, we describe…
A group of St. Mark members who participated in Pastor Eric’s Bible Studies over the last year has become interested in social justice issues and are meeting on Zoom to talk about ideas and ways St. Mark can make an impact locally. The group would like to inform and invite other members of St. Mark…
3/19/2021 3:20:00 PM My enemies trample on me all day long, for many fight against me. O Most High, when I am afraid, I put my trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I am not afraid; what can flesh do to me? (Psalm 56:2-4). As a nation, we continue…