Rev. Virginia Jarocha-Ernst

October is all about justice this year, especially with major elections looming. Social justice is one value we as Unitarian Universalists usually agree upon in spite of all of our other differences. At least in the big picture, we agree that social justice for all is worth working for. Though I’m sure we still disagree about the particulars of how to get there. An election season can be challenging for a congregation which is by law non-partisan and by conviction values pluralism. The rules are simple really. As a religious congregation, we can address issues but not endorse candidates. The challenge can be to differentiate between personal expression and the institution’s voice. But this I know, we are more diverse than we think. Sitting next to you in the Earth Room on Sunday morning are Republicans, Democrats, Independents and more. Sharing a cup of coffee in the Community Room, we are in dialogue with a wider range of political views than we might usually assume. One simple practice might help us through this month of tension. It is the same practice we use in interfaith dialogue. We do not denigrate other people. We listen for understanding even as we articulate as clearly as we know how our own position. I hope I always speak with respect for you and others even when we disagree. But if I do not – please let me know. This is the good faith I want to practice that leads toward justice.

Yours in faith,

Rev. Virginia

Next month’s theme is Covenant. If you have anything that you would like to add to the program and discussion, please forward to Rev. Virginia.