(E)pistle: Come Unto Me

A shout-out goes to St Andrew’s Church in Martha’s Vineyard for their courageous and faithful response to the plight of immigrant families last week.  In what can only be described as a cruel and inhumane political stunt, Florida Governor Ron Desantis flew two plane loads of undocumented men, women, and children to this small vacation island in an effort to “own the libs.”

The  island’s resources were of course completely overwhelmed, and that is where the church came in.  Parishioners immediately mobilized to provide food and the church building itself was transformed into a shelter.  Even High School students who were taking Spanish showed up to be interpreters!* Ironically, a Governor who claims to be a Christian, was thwarted by true disciples of the one who said, “Come unto me, all of you who are heavy laden,” and who followed his commandment to welcome the stranger in their midst.

The parishioners of that little parish have inspired us all to remember that true love of neighbor is always stronger than the thrones, principalities, powers and postering politicians.  This is the church at its bravest and at its best.

Kirk

*https://vineyardgazette.com/news/2022/09/23/volunteers-gather-reflect-and-look-forward