From Pastor Zeke Page 1 From the Desk of Pastor Zeke Over the past few days I have had many conversations with Methodist colleagues and many church members regarding the actions and reactions from General Conference. Many of those have been raw, emotional, anxiety-ridden conversations. Meaningful words have been scarce for me and trite comments even more hollow than normal. I serve two churches that represent the full spectrum of beliefs. As a UMC pastor I have cherished the spectrum of individuals and beliefs of each person. I authentically love diversity. It has been a joy to seek to foster faith communities that live in the creative tension of diversity and faith. When done in love, it is a beautiful thing. However, there have been many precious people left feeling injured, further marginalized and unwelcome. I truly strive to live a life that does “No Hard”. As a core tenant of what it means to be a UM, we, the people and the institution on the UMC, have done harm. It pains me to see others wounded by the church. I believe all people are of sacred worth who have been created in the image of God, beautiful and beloved. I will continue to strive to love God and love my neighbor. I will continue to lead others to do the same. In this tenuous time within our denomination, grace and love are essential. Pointing fingers and picking sides cannot be the steps in the days to come. Love must abound. Grace must abound. The world will truly know us by our love. So for everyone of you, in whatever place today finds you, may love be the light that illumines your steps. I love each of you and I stand with you all. My prayer for all of us is that we all might experience lives of true shalom. Keep the Faith Strong, Zeke A prayer of St. Francis of Assisi: “Lord, make me an instrument of your peace; where there is hatred, let me sow love; where there is injury, pardon; where there is discord, union; where there is doubt, faith; where there is despair, hope; where there is darkness, light; and where there is sadness, joy.” Wesley UMC Newsletter March 2019
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