This past Sunday in worship, we as a community of faith gave voice to the promises and commitments of baptism. “Will you strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being?” To which, we collectively respond: “I will, with God’s help.” This is the Gospel that feels so at odds with the indignities and intensified violence we are watching from our nation’s leaders and authorities. What is the role of the church writ large and what is our role particularly as St. Stephen’s, being the broad and bold people who God created us to be in Montrose, Houston, Texas? Presiding Bishop Sean Rowe has written powerfully and clearly about the direct action and advocacy we can and are pursuing together as well as a sense of calling for this time:
“At its best, our church is capable of moral clarity and resolute commitment to justice. I believe we can bring those strengths to bear on this gathering storm. Churches like ours, protected by the First Amendment and practiced in galvanizing people of goodwill, may be some of the last institutions capable of resisting the injustice now being promulgated. That is not a role we sought—but it is one we are called to.” You can read his full letter here.
Here in this place, many of us are looking for ways to be a part of that calling. Prayer and presence are gifts we have to share. On Saturday morning, June 14th, our Men’s Spirituality group will gather (8 AM in Havens Center) for encouragement and prayer while our Rosary group (8 AM, in the Sanctuary and on Zoom) will be anchored in prayers of peace from near and far.
We can also gather together toward the steps of City Hall to join our neighbors in the local expression of the “No Kings” movement. All over the country, people are showing up and speaking out to proclaim that the way things are is not reflective of who we are nor who we want to be. The event in Houston begins at 10 AM this Saturday. If you would like to go with us, we will meet at the W. Alabama church parking lot at 9 AM, and head downtown together shortly after. Friends of all walks are welcome as people are seeking community to support such involvement. I will gather us and go with cold water and first aid and leaders trained in non-violent activism to review best practices and plans for safety, well-being, and making meaning of the day. You can bring similar things for yourself or to share as well as signs and sign-making supplies. Cell phone service is unreliable at such events, but the Pastoral Care line will be open (and text msg capable) for those looking to connect on the ground during the day. This number is published in our bulletins each week (which is also linked each week in these e-mails) so that you can have it and spammers miss it.
Whether you plan to come with us this time or in the future or be a part of this kind of activism anywhere, here are good resources we recommend to best be a presence of community care in the world. We each are given different gifts of the Spirit and have a variety of risks and privileges to faithfully consider. What remains true is that we are not alone and that we are bound to each other and these promises of ultimate goodness in sacred creation that can not be undone. Peace and courage be with you.
Rev. Ashley Dellagiacoma, Associate Rector