Black History Month invites the Church not only to remember,but to repent, to listen, and to see again. At the center of Scripture stands a God who does not look away.

Walking Together into God’s New Work As we begin the new year, my first word is gratitude. I give thanks for the people of Ohio – pastors, lay leaders, congregations, and communities – who have walked faithfully through seasons of change. Across this State, I have witnessed quiet courage, generous service, and love that sought no recognition. These moments have stayed with me, strengthening my hope and deepening my trust in what God is doing among us.

We live in a demanding season, when economic inequities, immigration struggles, and social divisions weigh heavily upon our nation and our churches. Yet the Spirit calls us not into despair but into deeper discipleship.

“See, I am doing a new thing!” – Isaiah 43:19 (NIV)

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Korean Peninsula from Japanese colonial rule and the declaration of independence.

Rise Up, Beloved Making Disciples of Jesus Christ for the Transformation of the World

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” - Matthew 5:9 (NRSVA)

“You are looking for Jesus the Nazarene, who was crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. But go, tell his disciples and Peter, ‘He is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him, just as he told you.’” (Mark 16:6-7)

Every one of you is probably all too well acquainted with scars. So am I. I’ve been with families who have lost a parent, with those who have experienced a tragic accident, with those whose lives have been torn apart by fire or storm. 

“And the Spirit immediately drove him out into the wilderness. He was in the wilderness for forty days, tempted by Satan; and he was with the wild beasts; and the angels waited on him.” – Mark 1:12-13 (NRSVA)