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As we stand at the threshold of a new chapter in our shared journey, my heart overflows with gratitude for the unwavering support and love you have shown me as your pastor. Your commitment to our mission of love and justice, and your love for one another has been a beacon of hope, illuminating our way forward.
Reflecting on the discernment process over the last six months, I am reminded of the words from Galatians 6:9: "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." For me, this sentiment resonates deeply as we embrace the concept of becoming a Resurrecting Church—a community continually renewed by God's grace and our call to be a church that brings hope and healing to a broken world.
Our journey over these last three years has been marked by introspection, healing, struggle, and transformation. We have confronted past wounds, celebrated our collective
identity, and reclaimed the vision of a future rooted in peace and justice. This process has not been without its challenges, yet your resilience and faith have been a steadfast witness of God’s love for all.
And, we recognize that the path ahead will not be easy. The political climate and the impending return of policies that target the most vulnerable, sow division, and threaten the freedoms of progressive communities, present significant challenges—not only for our church, but for the Salem-Keizer community and beyond. These realities demand that we remain vigilant, rooted in justice, and united in love. Our declaration every Sunday that “no matter who you are or where you are on your life’s journey, you are welcome here,” must grow in us strong muscles for the marathon ahead.
As people of faith, we are called to respond to the threats to our neighbors with boldness and hope. Let us not forget that our faith compels us to stand with the oppressed, to amplify the voices of the silenced, and to be a sanctuary of safety and resistance against the coming storm. The question before us is not whether we will act, but how we will embody Christ’s radical love in these uncertain times.
I invite you to reflect on these questions as we prepare for the work ahead:
How can we be a church that lives out our commitment to justice and equity in a time of increasing polarization and fear?
In what ways might we offer sanctuary—both literal and figurative—for those who feel unsafe or excluded in this historical moment?
What role does our faith play in confronting systemic injustice and standing in solidarity with those who are most affected?
How can we advocate for the values of inclusion, compassion, and dignity in both our local community and the broader world?
What bold risks might God be calling us to take as a Resurrecting Church in this time?
The challenges before us are undeniable, yet so is our hope. In these uncertain times, I am reminded that the story of resurrection is one of transformation forged through struggle. Just as the Spirit empowered Christ’s followers in the early church, that same Spirit breathes life into us today, granting us the courage and strength to persevere. As
Hebrews 12:1 encourages us: "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.”
The road ahead will undoubtedly bring its share of challenges, but it is also filled with boundless possibilities. As we embrace our calling to be a Resurrecting Church, let us dedicate ourselves to ongoing transformation—both as individuals and as a community. Together, let us pledge to be a sanctuary of hope, a shining beacon of justice, and a welcoming home where every person can experience genuine belonging wrapped up by the love of Christ.
Let us run with perseverance the race set before us, trusting the Spirit to guide us with every stride. As we press forward, may we sow seeds of love and justice along the path, confident that, with God’s help, we will one day rejoice in the bountiful harvest of justice and love that awaits.
With deep gratitude and abiding hope,
Pastor Robin
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