Freedom to Disagree

Dear People of God,

As we near July 4^th, I can’t help but feel a sense of sadness for the state of our country. Now more than ever we must find a way to fight the temptation to silo ourselves in camps and demonize those with whom we disagree.

Remember that this life is a battle between darkness and light. The darkness is much smarter than we think, and it wants nothing more than for the human race to tear itself apart. To take matters such as abortion, such an intimate and complex matter, and boil it down to black and white, pro-choice and pro-life, is to suggest that there is little room for dialogue, prayer, discussion, trust, and struggle. We are talking about something so profound, so painful, so intimate. Please remember that no matter where you stand on this issue or any other, it is never simple. And no matter where you stand, you have no right to judge another for that is God’s job alone.

Jesus said You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Our Cathedral is a shining light in this city, a place where people are loved and welcomed who come from truly different places in their lives and differing perspectives. Let us continue to shine that particular light of true diversity into the world by honoring those with whom we disagree.

Join us this Sunday as we celebrate the founding of this country. Pray with me that our true freedom may never be taken away, the freedom to stand up for what we believe, to champion justice but also to respect and honor the dignity of those who differ from us. Join us and pray for this country and for the world.

In Christ’s love,

Kate+