Pastor's Page

I am writing to you from Indianapolis where I am attending the Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual/Transgendered Coalition of the United Church of Christ. We have a record high attendance this year with 350 registrants. Last night we were blessed with a visit from our General Minister and President, The Rev. John Thomas. Rev. Thomas reminded us of the difficult struggle within the UCC to choose the "hard right over the easy wrong."* Our church, The United Church of Christ, has had a long history of taking stands against injustice in our world. The UCC's decision to take a stand against the injustices committed against gays and lesbians is just another step on the same path we have been walking since the UCC was born 49 years ago. Rev. Thomas boldly proclaimed, "A divided church that stands for something is better than a united church that stands for nothing!" We all like it when church makes us feel good about ourselves, but we must remember that we are called to be the light of the world, the salt of the earth. It is sometimes difficult and uncomfortable to fulfill the call of Jesus Christ that rests so heavily upon us.

It is summertime in Maine. It is time for us to enjoy the blessings of life. God would want it this way, I think. Without throwing a wet blanket on the joys of summer, I want to remind everyone of how important it is for us to be the church in the heart of the Village. We are present as a light to those who are confronted with the darkness of life. We are present as a prophetic voice calling everyone to live in the Shalom of God. We are present to keep love alive in our community and in our world. I believe that keeping our faith alive can be one of the joys of summer! Let's live the abundant life of God remembering that abundant living involves both receiving glorious gifts and sharing those gifts with others.

My prayer is that you will have a delightful summer!

*If you read nothing else this week, please read John Thomas' address at the Wisconsin Conference Annual Meeting: 'A United Church That Stands For Something'. If you do not have access to a computer, there are copies available at the church.

Rev. Victor Stanley