ISAIAH, Faith in Democracy

"To abandon politics means leaving the structuring of society to those who are most concerned to serve their own interests. It means letting the Pharaohs and monarchs and Caesars and domination systems, ancient and modern, put the world together as they will. In a democracy, politics in the broad sense does include how we vote. But it also includes more: what we support in our conversations, our contributions, monetary and otherwise, our actions. Not every Christian is called to be an activist. But all are called to take seriously God’s dream for a more just and nonviolent world."

Marcus Borg, in Convictions: How I Learned What Matters Most.

In late June, I was one of 150 ISAIAH leaders who gathered at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church in St. Paul to celebrate legislative actions taken by the Minnesota legislature in its 2023 regular session. Many justice actions were enacted. Some, such as restoring the vote to persons who have served time but are still on parole, will be implemented immediately. Others, including the MNCare Public Option will first require a few years of study and planning before implementation. ISAIAH advocates were instrumental in achieving these legislative decisions.

At that June meeting, we also began to discern “Our Compass and Path to 2025” shape a caring economy that allows everyone to thrive and a democracy that honors every person’s dignity.

The first step in this discernment is a season of deep listening to the needs and yearnings of our friends and neighbors. Thus, I ask you to share what is in your heart and mind with me during the next two months. I will be making some contacts, but there is no need to wait for me to reach out. Give me a call (507-581-4684) or email me (evelynburry@hotmail.com). I look forward to hearing from you.

Evelyn Burry, ISAIAH-NUMC, Team Leader