Will you strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being?
I will, with God’s help.
That is one of the vows we hear and proclaim in our baptismal covenant. In those questions and answers, we express the ways each of us will live our faith both inside and outside our church walls: with firm commitment, and a reliance on God’s help.
With celebrations of Juneteenth and Pride taking place this month, there have been and will continue to be many opportunities that arise for us to express our faith and commitment for our siblings who continue to be disenfranchised in our society today. If, for whatever reason you find yourself struggling to live into this promise, remember you are not alone. Our vows are clear in noting this is not work we can participate in by ourselves. We find our courage, strength, and everlasting love within the Holy Spirit and our Lord Jesus Christ. May you feel that guidance as we work together to instill change and further continue to commit ourselves in truth and action toward a more inclusive and equitable future.
In a spirit of righteousness, love, and to deepen and broaden our participation in God’s mission, we commend to you the events and resources below that both honor Juneteenth and Pride, and recommit ourselves to our baptismal vows.
Faithfully,
The Rt. Rev. Ian T. Douglas, Bishop Diocesan
The Rt. Rev. Laura J. Ahrens, Bishop Suffragan
