Love Notes #26

Dear Beloved Child of God,

You are loved just the way you are. You are not alone. Our faith teaches us that every person has a right to bodily, emotional, and spiritual autonomy, and we in the United Church of Christ will stand with you, sit with you, and weep with you as we work together to stop aggression and hateful actions in communities around the country. Please know that there are many more people who support you and love you than there are people who fear or even say they hate you. Together, we will win because love is far more powerful than hate.

In my congregations, we mean it when we say, “You are welcome here.” I pray that you will find a faith community like the ones I serve, one that will love, affirm, and empower you to use every gift God has given you to live fully and joyfully doing whatever it is you are called to do, with love and hope and without fear.

Rev. Dr. Ruth E. Shaver
Bridge Interim Pastor
Lakeville United Church of Christ
North Congregational United Church of Christ
Old Colony Association, Massachusetts/SNEUCC