Category Pastoral Letters

12 Mar

Joint Statement: For Religious Liberty and Against Christian Nationalism

We, the undersigned, urge the federal government to protect the religious liberty of all people and we strongly condemn the rise of Christian Nationalism, a dangerous conflation of fundamentalist Christianity, conservative politics, and fierce patriotism which distorts what it means to be an American citizen and an engaged Christian in society.

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6 Mar

A Pastoral Message on Supporting our LGBTQIA+ Siblings

In recent weeks, we have witnessed a number of statements and executive orders that have sought to create a hostile environment for our LGBTQIA+ siblings. While this saddens and often angers me, I recognize that the stakes are incredibly higher for those whose safety and identity are threatened by these actions and statements. As a leader in a church that has pledged to stand with and walk with all who may be marginalized and vulnerable, I urge us all to take the following steps.

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6 Feb

Pastoral Letter on The Church We Are Called to Be

As we enter the third week of the new presidential administration in Washington, DC, there seems to be so much happening so quickly that it reminds me of the early days of the pandemic in the spring of 2020, when there was so much uncertainty and change that it was hard to know what to believe, what to expect, how to respond, and what to do. Amid all the swirling claims and counterclaims, I believe it to be of utmost importance that we in the church stand firm and remember who we are called to be and with whom we are called to stand.

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27 Jan

Joint Statement On Immigration

"But speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by every ligament with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly, promotes the body’s growth in building itself up in love." – Ephesians 4:15-16

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19 Dec

A Christmas Message from Bishop Erickson

This light of faith and strength does not eliminate the challenges and pain of this age, but my prayer is that it gives us what we need to keep moving forward, to keep loving even when it’s hard, to keep finding ways to listen with curiosity and acting with courage as we strive to follow the ancient path of wisdom to the Christ child and beyond.

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11 Dec

Letter from Bishop Erickson on Immigration Issues

As we prepare for the various policies and procedures that will be implemented by the incoming presidential administration, particularly regarding immigration, there are several items I would like to inform you about and invite your participation.

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