Beloveds, as I write this it is 4:45 am and I am stunned by the way Election Day went. We are headed for a second Trump administration, which is a threat to many of us in a variety of ways. I imagine many of you are having intense emotions today as well, and I encourage you to do what you need to care for yourself. For me, this includes working from home instead of driving to Mankato while exhausted both physically and emotionally. However, I will be working on Sunday’s service, communicating with staff, and will be available to you both individually and in an evening gathering on Zoom.

In case you are worried about what I have said above, the rules about churches and politics only say that we as a church cannot promote voting for a particular candidate or party. Once the ballots are cast, we are allowed to speak about the results. In fact, in this case, as in 2016 but perhaps even more so, I believe we are ethically compelled to speak about what is happening in our nation, and to work to protect the most vulnerable among us from the impacts of this election.

That work will begin soon. Some of it will be a continuation of work we already do. Some may be new to us. There are already relevant resources available from our denomination.

For now, though, this is a time for us to be together in our shock and grief, and to know that we will get through this together.

Tonight, I will hold an online pastoral space for anyone who needs it.  (Watch your email for details on how to access the Zoom link.) On Sunday, our worship service will be focused on grounding, centering, and comforting ourselves and each other.

If you are in need of individual pastoral care, please reach out to me. If you are having mental health challenges in the wake of the election, please reach out to a therapist or an emergency hotline. (If you need help connecting with one, I can assist you, including financially.)

You are not alone. We are not alone. We are in this together.

 

With much love,

Rev. Diana