In Response to Recent Events (blog)

A message from SHLC President, Tim...As another week comes to a close since the tragic killing of George Floyd, our communities and our nation are still in a world of hurt, anger and maddening frustration over the plague of prejudice and systemic racism that continues to threaten the safety, well-being and rights of African-Americans and other minorities in our nation.  Can we take a moment and reflect in the words of the Scripture to "Love your neighbors as yourselves" (Mark 12:31).As many leaders and individuals speak out, march and call for action and change, I am hopeful and pray that this may be the start of an awakening both locally and throughout our nation.  But I also know we've been here before and too often the commitment to bring about real change in our communities sadly is not sustained.  And we can't ignore the divisive, threatening and ugly words and tactics of some who seem to reject any suggestion that we as a nation can and should work to better protect and ensure the rights of all our neighbors.Real change will only come when each one of us in our lives, in our organizations and congregations as well as in our communities confronts the harsh realities of American life for those who face this prejudice and racism and asks what we can do to make a real and lasting impact.  I have been impressed with the way that so many organizations and people have stood up for what is right and called for all of us to reexamine our roles, our biases and our blind spots.  It is clear that we all have a role to play.  And it is incumbent on those of us with privileges, platforms, influence or power, to amplify the voices of those that have been drowned out and to maintain a strong drumbeat toward meaningful and sustained progress and action.  In this regard, Somerset Hills Lutheran Church will explore the best ways to activate our congregation in this mission and will continue to lift up those working on the front lines of change through our support and prayers.  We will explore ways to partner with other organizations to ensure we make the greatest impact possible.Nations rise and fall not on the strength or weakness of their leaders, but rather on the heartfelt commitment and actions of its people.  Let us agree together as a congregation to not only pray for change but to do the hard work of examining what each one of us can do to make a difference, and then hold ourselves and each other accountable.