Faithfully Celebrating Independence Day

As we approach Independence Day, we are reminded of the freedoms and ideals upon which our nation was aspirationally built. It is a time for celebration, reflection, and recommitment to the principles that make the United States a beacon of hope and justice. At Riverfront Family Church, we embrace the call to be patriots, not in the narrow sense of nationalism, but as individuals committed to the values of equality, justice, and love for all. In this blog, we will explore how we can celebrate Independence Day while rejecting Christian Nationalism and respond to recent SCOTUS decisions with a prophetic witnessing voice for justice.

Rejecting Christian Nationalism:

Christian Nationalism conflates religious beliefs with the ideals of a specific nation, leading to the belief that one faith or religious tradition should dominate the public sphere. However, as followers of Christ, we are called to a higher standard - one that transcends national boundaries and embraces the diversity of God's creation. In rejecting Christian Nationalism, we acknowledge that our faith should inform our patriotism, but it should never be used to exclude or marginalize others.

Championing Justice:

The recent decisions by the Supreme Court of the United States have left many feeling frustrated and concerned about the erosion of rights for historically marginalized communities. As people of faith, we are called to stand for justice and advocate for those who are oppressed. Micah 6:8 reminds us, "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." In our pursuit of justice, we are compelled to address the issues that have caused anger and frustration.

Affirmative Action:

The Supreme Court's decisions rolling back Affirmative Action present challenges to achieving equality and addressing systemic inequalities. As followers of Christ, we are called to stand alongside those who have been historically marginalized and to work toward a more just society. Galatians 3:28 reminds us, "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." Let us advocate for policies that promote diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities for all -- including the use of affirmative action to help ameliorate and address generational systemic white supremacy and racism.

LGBTQ Protections:

The recent SCOTUS decisions impacting LGBTQ protections remind us of the ongoing struggles for equality and acceptance faced by our LGBTQ+ siblings. As Christians, we are called to extend love, compassion, and support to all individuals, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity. We should actively reject discrimination and work towards a society where everyone can live authentically and without fear. Romans 12:10 urges us to "Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves."

Abortion Rights:

The issue of abortion rights continues to be a divisive and sensitive topic. As Christians, we should approach this issue with compassion, recognizing the complexities and emotions involved. As a pastor, I affirm that the decision to have an abortion or carry to term is between a pregant person, their doctors, their involved partner, and, if they are of faith, their God. Neither government nor religious organization can o should dictate medical decisions for individuals or create/advocate for polices that encorach on the inherent right to self-determination. While we may have differing views, we must prioritize the well-being of women and pregnant people, provide support and resources for those facing difficult decisions, and work towards comprehensive solutions that address the root causes of abortion. Proverbs 31:8-9 reminds us, "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves... defend the rights of the poor and needy."

Prophetic Witness for Justice:

As followers of Christ, we are called to be a prophetic voice for justice, echoing God's heart for righteousness and equality. We can engage in constructive dialogue, advocate for just policies, and work towards creating a society that reflects God's love for all people. Let us remember the words of Amos 5:24, "But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!" In our celebrations this Independence Day, let us commit ourselves to being faithful witnesses for justice and agents of positive change.

As we celebrate Independence Day, let us embrace our identity as patriotic Christians who reject Christian Nationalism, champion justice, and stand in solidarity with those who are marginalized. We can be a prophetic witnessing voice for justice by advocating for equality, rejecting discrimination, and working towards a more just and compassionate society. Let us be guided by Scripture, the teachings of Jesus, and the Holy Spirit as we seek to honor God in all we do. May God bless you abundantly as you celebrate and strive for justice this Independence Day.

Embracing Juneteenth: Honoring Freedom and Unity at Riverfront Family Church

We have the privilege of acknowledging and celebrating an important milestone in American history—Juneteenth. This day, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. At Riverfront Family Church, we embrace the significance of Juneteenth, recognizing it as an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the African American experience and promote unity within our community.

On June 19, 1865, Union Army General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and declared the end of slavery, over two years after President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth holds immense historical and cultural importance, symbolizing freedom from bondage and serving as a reminder of the journey towards equality and justice for all Americans.

At Riverfront Family Church, we believe in fostering an inclusive and diverse environment that celebrates the richness of our collective heritage. Embracing Juneteenth allows us to engage in meaningful conversations that deepen our empathy and understanding. By learning about the African American experience and its lasting impact, we can cultivate unity within our congregation and community.

To support your exploration of Juneteenth and facilitate insightful discussions, we recommend the following resources:

1. Reading Materials:

• "The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America's Great Migration" by Isabel Wilkerson

• "Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America" by Ibram X. Kendi

• "Juneteenth: A Novel" by Ralph Ellison

• "The Underground Railroad" by Colson Whitehead

2. Videos and Documentaries:

• "13th" (Netflix documentary) directed by Ava DuVernay

• "The African Americans: Many Rivers to Cross" (PBS series) presented by Henry Louis Gates Jr.

• "I Am Not Your Negro" (documentary) directed by Raoul Peck

3. Websites and Articles:

• National Museum of African American History & Culture: Juneteenth Resource Guide (https://nmaahc.si.edu/juneteenth)

• Juneteenth.com (https://www.juneteenth.com/history/)

4. If you're interested in participating in Juneteenth events or celebrations in or near Hartford, Connecticut, we encourage you to consider the following local happenings:

• Juneteenth Jubilee at The Amistad Center for Art & Culture

• Juneteenth Celebration at Mortensen Riverfront Plaza

• Juneteenth Heritage Festival at Bushnell Park

Juneteenth presents an opportunity for Riverfront Family Church to come together, honor our shared history, and work towards a future of unity, understanding, and equal opportunities for all. Let us embrace this occasion by engaging in conversations, reflecting on our past, and actively fostering an environment of respect within our church and wider community.

If you have any questions, suggestions, or additional resources related to Juneteenth that you'd like to share, please feel free to do so in the comments. Together, let's celebrate Juneteenth with reverence, gratitude, and a commitment to building a better tomorrow.

Blessings,

Pastor Ben

Pastor Michael

Pastor Liza

Condemning Hate: Defending Unity and Justice Against Nazi Graffiti on the BLM Mural in Hartford

At Riverfront Family Church, we stand firmly committed to the values of peace, allyship, and dismantling systemic racism within our community and beyond. We believe in the power of unity and justice, striving to create an inclusive society that celebrates diversity. It is with deep sadness and righteous indignation that we address the recent incident of Nazi graffiti defacing the Black Lives Matter mural in Hartford, CT. Today, we raise our voices in condemnation of this hateful act and reaffirm our unwavering support for the Black community.

Art has always played a pivotal role in society, serving as a powerful catalyst for change, dialogue, and healing. The Black Lives Matter mural in Hartford is a testament to the resilience and strength of the Black community, a vibrant representation of their struggle for equality and justice. It stands as a unifying symbol, inviting all to recognize the inherent worth and dignity of every individual. The heinous act of defacing this mural with Nazi symbolism attempts to undermine the progress we have made and fosters an environment of fear and division.

As followers of Christ, we are called to denounce hate in all its forms. The Nazi graffiti found on the Black Lives Matter mural goes against everything we stand for as a church community. We categorically condemn this act of vandalism, as it not only defaces a powerful expression of the Black community's voice but also perpetuates the oppression and suffering that people of color have endured for far too long. This act reminds us of the ongoing fight against racism and the urgent need to continue working together to dismantle systemic injustice.

Now, more than ever, it is crucial for us to come together as allies, standing alongside our Black siblings and neighbors. We must raise our voices in solidarity, amplifying the call for justice and equity. This incident serves as a reminder of the work still to be done to eradicate racism from our society. We are committed to standing with the Black community, not only in times of crisis but every day, as we strive to create a world where everyone can thrive and flourish without fear of discrimination or hate.

We must channel our anger and frustration into action. This act of hate has ignited a fire within us, fueling our determination to continue the fight against racism. As a church community, we will support local initiatives that promote racial justice, engage in conversations that challenge our biases, and actively seek to dismantle systemic racism. We will work tirelessly to foster an environment where all are treated with dignity, respect, and love.

Riverfront Family Church stands firmly against the Nazi graffiti on the Black Lives Matter mural in Hartford, CT. We condemn this act of hate and reaffirm our commitment to peace, allyship, and dismantling systemic racism. Let us unite as a community, embracing diversity, and working together towards a society that upholds justice and equality for all. Together, we can overcome hate and create a future where love prevails and every life is valued.