Insist on LOVE
“God of LOVE, we thank you for the many people who break down walls, hold up mirrors, and help us to more fully embrace the whole body of Christ. May we continually work to insist on LOVE for all of your children, especially those marginalized because of their identities. ”
At the 2025 Synod Assembly, the La Crosse Area Synod affirmed a resolution to enter a year of discernment, learning, and conversation regarding becoming a Reconciling in Christ synod. In the midst of our conversation, one comment has stuck with me which I will paraphrase, "we need to vote on a welcome statement which describes our commitment to others. We will not be voting on the humanity of others, that is not up for debate."
During this PRIDE month, I pray that we all remember that each and every child of God is deserving of Love, Respect, and Dignity. Period. This is not up for debate. The only question is… how we will demonstrate that Love? How will you respond to the gift first given to us by God? How will you follow Jesus towards "Cultivating Life-Giving Relationships Rooted in God's Love?"
Written by The Rev. Felix J. Malpica, Bishop of the La Crosse Area Synod
