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In the opening worship service of the General Synod, attendees engaged in a profound reflection on justice and reconciliation. The gathering was not just for prayer and song but aimed at reconciling with one another, the land, and historical injustices associated with church activities.
The service focused on environmental justice, urging participants to confront their roles in perpetuating issues like colonization, economic disparity, and spiritual disconnection. The tone of this year's Synod emphasized accountability over performative lamentation.
Key phrases from the service highlighted broader implications for churches today:
“One ounce of truth is like a ripple in a pond.”
“Persistence and perseverance are appreciated in the slow race of working toward justice.”
“Jesus didn’t build an institution—he built a movement.”
These statements critiqued institutional survival instincts while inviting churches to embrace truth-telling as an act of love. Participants were encouraged to reconnect with prophetic Christianity by acknowledging societal disappointments and ongoing struggles such as mental illness and global conflicts.
Rev. Marilyn Pagan Banks stressed that this is not a time for superficial unity but for meaningful connection. Her full remarks will be available soon.
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