In the great tapestry of the biblical tradition, the justness of a society is expressed – and evaluated – by how it treats its most vulnerable members.  Neglect of our neighbors’ needs is not merely a lack of charity but an injustice.  As a congregation, we do justice by caring for and taking up the cause of those who feel powerless.  God is “a father to the fatherless, a defender of widows” (Psalm 68:4-5), a mother to all whose needs are deep.  We love God by loving our neighbor as ourselves.

In Paul’s letter to the Galatians, the apostle names the fruit of the Spirit, which are virtues of a Holy Spirit-led life:  love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Gal. 5:22).  Kindness is the centerpiece in Paul’s “fruit basket,” the heart of Christian practice.  Kindness toward one another and all others is a fulcrum upon which our congregation balances.  

Faith is confidence that “all shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of thing shall be well” (Julian of Norwich).  Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen (Heb. 11:1).  Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase (MLK).  As a community of faith, we are ever learning to trust the goodness and wisdom of God.  Our still-speaking God declares through the prophet, “I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jer. 29:11).  Let it be.  

Come Sunday, our pastors say, “No matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.”  Every time we gather, we bear witness to the extravagant welcome and boundaryless love of Christ, who says to seekers or every time and place, “You are loved.  You belong.  You are enough.”  This is what it means to be an Open and Affirming Congregation.  “All are welcome” is where we start.