Dear friends and members of University UMC:
In a recent worship service, I prayed these words in the pastoral prayer: “We come to you with raw honesty, God. Because some days we try to do good and we try to do justice, but it seems we’re up against too much.” The prayer followed a week with another school shooting and the passing of Texas Senate Bill 8–restricting bathroom use in government-owned buildings, public schools, and universities based on sex assigned at birth. After worship, a few people told me they felt seen as I prayed about being “up against so much!” It is understandable for us to think our small acts of love and mercy are inadequate when we are surrounded by loud voices that are fearful of diversity and when we are overwhelmed by the reality of violence.
As I sit to write this morning, I find comfort in turning to the good words of gifted writers. You’ll find here a poem by storyteller John Roedel. I came across this poem, “Whenever I Feel Helpless,” months ago, and tucked it away to bring out again from time to time. Today seemed a good time to reread his good words. I hope you’ll also keep his poem tucked away and return to it someday when you have need.
You’ll also find a prayer by Cole Arthur Riley in her beautiful book entitled “Black Liturgies: Prayers, Poems, and Meditations for Staying Human”. This prayer for Queer Bodies was selected in response to SB8. I hope you find it a balm. Pass it long to those you know who could use a word of comfort.
With all that is swirling about in the airwaves, I find our work at University UMC more and more relevant. Through worship that lifts our spirits, programs that build relationships, and ministries that reach out with compassion to our neighbors, we discover and experience glimpses of the world about which we dream. I am grateful for you. And I look forward to seeing you in worship as we begin a new sermon series entitled “Created for Community.” Sunday, we’ll also break bread with one another as we celebrate the sacrament of Holy Communion. We’ll remember that as Christ welcomes us to the table, He also calls us into a relationship with one another for the work of service.
What a joy to be your pastor!
Teresa
