October 17, 2025

Over the last week, over 950 faith leaders from more than 70 counties across Minnesota joined together to call on state lawmakers to pass reasonable gun control measures. I have been proud to be part of that group. On Wednesday of last week, we delivered a letter to the governor, outlining why, as people of faith, this issue is critical to us. That launched  7 Days of Prayer and Action that included a daily prayer service on the Capitol steps. On Tuesday of this week, I had the honor of helping to lead the final prayer service. A group of Saint Annians braved the drizzle and chilly temps to stand on the steps too: we prayed together, and requested action together. Singing Amazing Grace with this gathered group of people from different faiths and denominaitons, but with the same hope for our future, was powerful.

I don't know if anything tangible will come of this effort. But it felt good to do something. It felt even better to do something together.

My prayer for all of us this week is to gather the heart and courage to stand up and speak up, the way Jesus has taught us, for the health, safety, and dignity of every person. Especially those most vulnerable. My prayer is that our courage be rooted in love, our actions shaped by justice, and our may our voices be heard. Amen.