I’ve heard many people ask why the younger generation doesn’t attend church and I’ve heard many responses, but there is one prominent response I’ve heard time and time again for the past twenty years. I think most, if not all, of us have heard this response, but I wonder if we’re listening. Perhaps it’s time to hear… to really listen… to the voices of this generation. It’s not only the millennials saying this, but their voice is loudest. The message is that Christians often portray judgment, exclusivity, oppression, repression, and intolerance.

In an online conversation, Martin Goulet wrote:

The ‘word of god’ is so often misused, wouldn’t we be better off just moving past that mythological phase of human existence? We can articulate a vision of human ethics that does not depend on human faith in something we cannot observe. One benefit of this vision is that it is not prone to the common perversions of faith-based systems. … I look at the history of religions in the world and can’t but see a net negative to humanity. And the fear, repression and intolerance that religions systemically propagate can’t be supported.

Fear, repression, and intolerance… is that what we are about? If that is the message we’re giving the world, then we need to stop and ask why. What words and actions have we said and done which portray Christianity in this light? It’s time to ask these difficult questions. There is no place for judgment, oppression and exclusion in our faith. Christianity is a religion of reconciliation, relationships, love, inclusivity, liberation, and forgiveness. How can we reconcile when we are judging, causing divisions, or oppressing?

May we embrace everyone in love and reflect God’s grace to ALL. May God’s love fill our hearts so there is no room for fear, hatred, or prejudice, and may that love overflow to those around us. May others look at us and see a people of love and grace. This is our mission: to love God and others as God has loved us. May we act and speak in ways that allow people see God’s love in us and glorify God. Read Galatians 5:13-26, and remember: God loves you unconditionally.

Annie