Summary of "Wednesday Evenings Under God": July 13, 2022

Summary:

Nearly forty people gathered for a service of compline on Wednesday, coming together to pray and consider, through respectful conversation, the ramifications of the recent SCOTUS decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. Compline provided a contemplative, centering way for attendees to prayerfully consider their feelings, experience, and possible ways to move forward in light of the decision. During the discussion, many shared concerns for the lives and safety of women. There was also fear, disbelief and anger at the loss of autonomy, and that the impact of the decision will be far-reaching—affecting everyone either personally or those they love and care for. What seemed to resonate the most within the group is that the most vulnerable will bear the brunt of this decision.

Rev. Jim Littrell noted that attention to and work toward change will be “a long work of love as the gathered congregation of the people of God,” and in that spirit the group suggested works of love— actions that we as Christians and as Episcopalians can take to help make change. Those suggestions can be found below, categorized into three areas: communications, policy monitoring and planning, and advocacy. A call was made to ensure that our works of love are focused and consistent, and that they ensure intergenerational participation and education, knowing that these efforts will likely span many years.

At the conclusion of the discussion, the group gathered for the remainder of the Compline service, ending the evening as it began, in prayer and contemplation. The group is committed to continuing Compline and discussion, and will be gathering next Wednesday, July 20th at 7pm. All are invited to participate as we consider and our works of love as Christians in the St. Martin’s community.

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