This question (in the graphic)—the last one asked as part of our Baptismal Covenant—has been weighing on me over the last several months. And it came to the fore in late June when a number of us were discussing a passage from the prophet Amos (8.1-6)*. In that passage, the prophet railed against the social injustices that characterized Israel in the eighth century BCE. Examples were “ rampling on the needy” (v. 4), “practicing deceit with false balances” (v. 5) or “selling the sweepings of the wheat” (v. 6 - that is, instead of pure grain). Our “task” in the bible study was to think about how questions of justice/injustice formed part of our mission, especially as we might come out of COVID-land.
In the course of the conversation, it was observed that many of our traditional forms of outreach/service were limited because of the restrictions placed upon us because of COVID. Volunteer opportunities have been curtailed, for example; for folks who give of their time as a primary means of service, there has been a sense of frustration. Others, who have generously given financial support, have run into limitations in those resources. The question arose, “What can we do?”
One answer, of course, is, “Pray". But, for many, that is insufficient. Another possibility is to engage in advocacy work, that is to “strive for justice and peace.” Good Shepherd has a long and notable history of serving the disadvantaged (“seeking and serving Christ in all persons”, as the Baptismal Covenant also states). There’s another side, however, to that service. As Abp. Desmond Tutu is said to have observed, “ There comes a point where we need to stop just pulling people out of the river. We need to go upstream and find out why they’re falling in.” In other words, part of our responsibility in living out our baptismal covenant is to address the systems that result in hunger and homelessness (as well as racism, environmental degradation, or any other malady that adversely affects God’s good creation).
And, so, it seems wise, and very appropriate these days, to learn how to advocate for change effectively. But, not just to advocate for change — but to advocate for change based on the values encapsulated in our baptismal covenant. And so, over the course of the next several months, we will offer opportunities to ask questions about advocacy in general, to learn more about how the Episcopal Church (nationally and locally) engages in policy discussions, and how to put passion into action. What we’re hoping to do is offer options for individuals who want to engage in the very important issues facing us as a people of faith, and who bring that faith to their role and responsibility as citizens.
Watch the E-News and Good Shepherd’s FaceBook Page for details! And, if you are interested in being part of the planning of these opportunities (or have comments or questions), please contact me!
Fr. Gary
*This Bible Study was the third in a series of four, suggested by the Office of the Bishop, to help us reflect on “re-opening the church”. All of those study sessions can be viewed at https://www.gshep.org/june-bible-study