From the Pastor’s Desk

Standing at a Moral Crossroads

This week, it feels once again that our nation stands at a moral crossroads. The U.S. House of Representatives narrowly passed the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” a sweeping budget reconciliation package that, if enacted, would inflict profound harm on the most vulnerable among us. The bill now moves to the Senate, where its future remains uncertain. As followers of Christ and members of the United Church of Christ, we are called to examine the laws and policies that come before us through the lens of our faith. And no matter which way you cut it, our sacred Scriptures consistently emphasize God’s concern for the marginalized: the poor, the widow, the orphan, and the stranger. The proposed bill includes significant tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans, while slashing essential programs like Medicaid and SNAP. These cuts threaten to strip health coverage from millions and deepen poverty. The bill also imposes new work requirements on Medicaid recipients and allocates billions toward border security, raising serious concerns about how we treat migrants and asylum seekers. In North Carolina, the consequences would be especially severe. Families could lose healthcare, children may go hungry, and already struggling communities would face greater hardship. We must ask: does this legislation reflect the just and compassionate society that God envisions? While its passage in the Senate is not guaranteed, it’s easy to feel helpless. But there are things we can do:

• Pray: Lift up our leaders in prayer, asking that they govern with wisdom and compassion.
• Contact Your Senators: Express your concerns to Senators Thom Tillis and Ted Budd. Urge them to oppose unjust legislation and advocate for equity.
• Educate and Advocate: Stay informed and share what you learn. Help others see how faith compels us to respond.
• Join Collective Actions: Attend vigils, advocacy events, and faith-based gatherings that amplify our shared voice for justice.

As we head into the holiday weekend, let us remember the words of Micah 6:8: “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” May we embody these principles and stand in loving solidarity with our neighbors.

Peace and Blessings,

Rev. Christopher Czarnecki

Senior Pastor, Holy Covenant UCC