Some of you are likely familiar with the phrase, “flood the zone.” It’s a sports metaphor currently used by politicians to fill the news cycle with so much, so fast, that the chaos causes us to be overwhelmed and distracted.

 

Through its executive orders and operations, the federal administration has in recent weeks targeted our transgender siblings, refugees, asylum seekers, migrants, Lutheran Social Services, federal employees, the Department of Education, agriculture, DEI programs, and others. People near and dear to us, and those on the other side of the world, are threatened, abandoned, fearful, and feel hopeless.

 

Even when we do not feel hopeful, we continue to walk with one another—accompaniment is a value we treasure in this synod and in the wider church. Other strengths of our synod include our diversity, our inclusion, and our social justice ministries. Our synod is rich in diversity, including LGBTQIA+ leaders, welcoming congregations, and ethnic-specific ministries. More so, we are committed to further strengthening and expanding our Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging work. These are deep values. Who we say we are and what we do together as people of God, as a synod, matter. Our speech and action spring from our identity as children of a loving, forgiving, and just God—and from our relationships with one another.

 

In these difficult days, I am thankful for the church. I hope you are finding strength as you regularly gather around water, word, and meal. While current events flood the zone and overwhelm us, we remember a different kind of flood in which God made a covenant with God’s people and brought deliverance and freedom. We remember God’s promises to us and the world when we gather at the font to give thanks for baptism (ELW #119):

 

 

Please continue to reach out to my office—especially my faithful, compassionate associates, our conference deans, and your local congregational staff for care and resources.

 

I encourage you to participate in local, state, and national coalitions (such as ELCA Advocacy) so together we can move toward action and speak more powerfully. Look also to those closest to you—family members, neighbors, and faith communities—asking how recent events are impacting them. We are bound together and constructive conversations are key to shaping our world.

 

Together, we will continue to navigate these challenging waters, anchored in the hope and strength of one another and of our faith.

 

We are the church together,

Bishop Yehiel Curry