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A Legacy of Love and Justice: Facing Election Day with Faith and Resolve

Dear ONA-UCC Family and Siblings in Christ,

November is quite a powerful month! We have observances of Youth Homelessness Awareness Month, National Adoption Month, Transgender Parents Day, National Native American Heritage Month, National Epilepsy Awareness Month, Trans Awareness Week, Lung Cancer Awareness Month, Transgender Day of Remembrance/Resilience, COPD Awareness Month, Veterans Day, and the United States Election Day to name a few.

Tomorrow is it…Election Day, a day filled with both hope and uncertainty. As those of us who did not vote early prepare to cast our votes, let us remember the words of Philippians 4:8 “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”  

This election season has been particularly challenging, with divisive rhetoric and harmful stereotypes aimed at marginalized communities, including our siblings in Puerto Rico. Let us stand in solidarity with them, celebrating and honoring their invaluable contributions to our society by voting with love that upholds the denominations stance, “1 John 3:18 to “let us not love with words or speech, but in action and in truth,” by “voting with love”. May we reject any language that seeks to belittle or marginalize anyone or any group or community, and instead affirm the inherent worth and dignity of every individual and their right to God’s true Liberty and Justice for ALL.

Let us face tomorrow with fortitude and tranquility, leaning into our community for support and remembering why we do this work, Jesus Justice work. Voting is very much a part of this work. Every act of justice and kindness, every bold stance for inclusion, helps shape a future where all of God’s children are truly affirmed, loved and celebrated. So, in the midst of uncertainty, let us lean into community, checking in with ourselves and each other, offering each other support and encouragement to go to the polls. Let us move forward and show up at the polls with courage and compassion. Let’s remind ourselves why we do this Jesus Justice work, which includes using “Our Faith, Our Vote” to be a part of building something beautiful that reflects the love and grace at the heart of who we are, which is also the reflective and tangible heart of God working through us.

As people of faith, we are called to be builders of justice, peace, and unfailing love, regardless of who wins or loses. Our purpose is intertwined with and transcend the outcome of any election. This is not just about tomorrow’s results. As Christians we are called to be rooted in God’s Love and God’s truth as we live inclusively, love radically, and stand firmly in our faith each and every day.

Remember, you are loved, your presence is valued, and together, we are unstoppable. With deep gratitude and love! Vote God’s heart of Love.

Blessings,

Rev. Dr. Katrina Roseboro-Marsh

Executive Director Open and Affirming Coalition United Church of Christ