November 1, 2018
A stanza from a favorite hymn has been churning in my mind over the last few weeks.
Save us from weak resignation to the evils we deplore;
Let the search for your salvation be our glory evermore.
Grant us wisdom, grant us courage, serving you whom we adore.
[Henry Emerson Fosdic, 1903]
Times such as these strain our wisdom and courage. How do we live powerfully in the love of Christ who transforms evil with good?
The killing of people gathered for worship in Pittsburgh last Saturday, October 27, was an occasion for profound grief; that it appears to have been a hate crime fuelled by a rising tide of hatefulness in our country makes it especially troubling.
Even where we are not sure how to effect the change we would make, we can make a difference for the better, bearing witness to the love we trust, giving voice to God’s care for those who suffer, giving encouragement to those who bring heal- ing and hope.
Leaders of the United Church of Christ have invited all of us who are members
of the UCC to send messages of love and support to Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, to be attentive to our Jewish brothers and sisters wherever we can find or make opportunity, and to be steadfast in prayer for all who are touched by hate and violence, that they may come to know justice and peace, and that we may all be healed.
Tree of Life Synagogue
5898 Wilkins Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
Rev. David E. Pattee, Senior Pastor