Over the past five months, and small and mighty group of people has met every other week to reflect on advocacy. We’ve listened to each other’s stories of what we believe advocacy to be, how we came to be advocates, what we advocate for and why, and what keeps us going when the work is hard. I am very grateful for those who showed up and shared in this way! Some of you came most times, some of you dropped in once or twice, and all were welcome.  

I started this group for a couple of reasons. First was to support our Faith in Action 3×3 grid that names three areas of focus: economic inequality, climate chaos, and racial justice, and three modalities that we use to address the areas: direct service, education and advocacy. I wanted to provide space for reflection about advocacy.  

Second, the legislative session gave us a great opportunity to pay attention to advocacy at the state level. It was an amazing virtual session with many progressive and transformative bills passed for policing reform, economic equality, environmental justice, racial justice and more. Thank you to all who followed, supported and advocated for bills in so many areas! 

Our advocacy doesn’t end; we celebrate the wins and look around and ahead to what is needed. And we need each other to keep our spiritual grounding, our focus, and our resolve.  

I plan to start this group again after a summer break, and we’ll meet monthly next year. Look for the chance to gather again in the Fall. I look forward to hearing your stories of advocacy then! 

Blessings on your week. 

Rev. Mary  

Minister@ouuc.org