This charge was written to be led by several voices: one person says a line, and then all in attendance respond, “We charge you to engage.”
Because your congregation is located in one of the poorest cities in the nation in the richest state per capita in the country
We charge you to engage
Because your faith, like ours, is one of action
We charge you to engage
Because your own freedom and liberation is bound up in that of the broader community
We charge you to engage
Because there is much to learn by walking with the people of [your city/region]
We charge you to engage
Because to ensure that all life is valued, we must take a stand for those lives that are dismissed and marginalized today
We charge you to engage
Because Black Lives Matter
We charge you to engage
Because this is a city of immigrants
We charge you to engage
Because this is [the capital city] of the state
We charge you to engage
Because you are blessed with many resources – this building, your talents, your money, your love
We charge you to engage
Because this beautiful world is aching, and we know you do not wish to stand silently on the sidelines.
We charge you to engage
May you engage in the work of building beloved community and sustainability with love.
May you engage in accountable relationships with those most impacted by the injustices you seek to address.
May you engage with humility, passion, love, and determination.
May you make a difference in our wider community.
And, as in the words of the prophet Jeremiah, “May you Seek the Welfare of the City...for in its welfare you will find your welfare.” (Jer 29:7)
Amen.
Charge to Engage
Cathy Rion Starr