Dear Congregation,

I hope this finds you well. I am fine, but I can’t help thinking about the people of Ukraine. The unprovoked Russian invasion of that sovereign country is destabilizing to all of Europe. It is a danger to peace around the world. And of course, it robs millions of Ukrainians of the basic rights of dignity, safety, and survival.

This is what war does.

For families, children, and elders in Ukraine, life as they know it has been crushed. Of course, Vladimir Putin is causing harm to families in Russia too, as he orders young people who are military service members into harm’s way to extend his imperial dream. It is disgusting.

In my distress about all this, I try to pray. For me, prayer doesn’t mean causing things to change by my thoughts, though I’d welcome that if it were to happen. But I pray to be clear about what I feel.

Here is what I mean. For the outrage and grief of it all, I sigh. I say words of lament. For all those who are in danger, I long for peace. When there is no peace, I pray for their strength. For those officials in the US and Europe working to turn back Putin’s aggression, I send wishes for wisdom and resolve. For those Ukrainians confronting the invasion by physical resistance, I pray for safety. I hope for the miracle of a Russian retreat.  For all who are terrified or grieving, I pray that they may know they are not forgotten.

And for all of us here in our confusion and helplessness, I ask that we might have the courage to bear witness. At the least, let us bear witness.

Take good care, and keep in touch. Rev. Lucy and I hope to see you soon.

Love,

Rev. Roger

[From the Feb. 25 Weekly Message email]