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As I grapple with the reality of another era shaped by Trumpism, I find myself searching for wisdom to guide us through what feels like an uncharted wilderness. It’s hard not to feel a sense of dread when faced with promises of policies and rhetoric designed to polarize, oppress, and dismantle decades of progress. In these moments, I turn to scripture for grounding. Matthew 10:16—“Be wise as serpents and gentle as doves”—has become one of my mantras for navigating this unsettling time. It reminds me to seek a balance between strategic action and compassionate care, a balance that I believe the progressive church is uniquely positioned to embody.
The progressive church has long been a home for those seeking justice, inclusivity, and belonging. It is where we can lean into our diversity, amplify silenced voices, and strive to embody the teachings of Jesus. Yet, the challenges we face now feel particularly daunting. How do we remain steadfast in our mission to advocate for systemic change while also creating spaces of healing? How do we practice both the wisdom of serpents and the gentleness of doves in a world so deeply divided?
First, we have to name the challenges before us. Here are four that I see as significant.
Polarization
The divisions in our society feel sharper than ever, and even within many mainline congregations, the fractures are evident. The Civil Rights Movement offers a valuable lesson here. Despite internal differences, leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Jo Ann Robinson united communities under a shared commitment to create the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Their work reminds us that unity doesn’t require homogeneity—it requires a collective willingness to prioritize the greater good. Today, progressive churches must similarly embrace our diversity as a strength and commit to unity in our mission.
Regressive Policies
The policies promised by Trumpism, like those outlined in Project 2025, are deeply troubling. From targeting LGBTQIA+ communities to rolling back climate protections and immigrant rights, these measures disproportionately harm the most vulnerable among us. The abolitionists of the 19th century faced similar systemic injustices. They were hated for their message and efforts, yet they persisted, driven by their belief that slavery was a collective sin requiring repentance. Progressive churches today must carry forward this prophetic tradition, calling for accountability and justice, even when it is unpopular.
Distrust in Institutions
For decades, trust in institutions—including the church—has eroded. Scandals and hypocrisy have left many skeptical of organized religion. This distrust challenges progressive churches to lead with humility and authenticity. The Reformation offers a parallel: Martin Luther’s challenge to corruption, paired with his commitment to the core tenets of faith, reminds us of the power of transparency and principled action in rebuilding trust.
Spiritual Fatigue
The unrelenting crises of our time weigh heavily on both leaders and congregants. After the Vietnam War, progressive churches created spaces for healing and dialogue, offering communities a chance to mend their wounds. We must do the same now, balancing activism with spiritual restoration.
I don’t know what the next few years will bring, but I do know they will demand the very best of us—our most wise and gentle selves, our most humble and prophetic selves. These times will test our resolve, our unity, and our faith. Yet, I am certain of this: by prioritizing care for the vulnerable, by building coalitions for justice, and by grounding ourselves in love and truth, we can meet these challenges with integrity and courage.
Let us strive to be the ones the future will remember—not as those who stood by, but as those who faced oppression with open hearts and fierce determination. May we be remembered as people of faith who moved forward with boldness, compassion, and an unshakable trust in a Still Speaking God.
With Peace and Passion -
Pastor Robin
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