November 6, 2024
He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?
— Micah 6:8 (NRSV)
Dear Siblings in Christ,
With the election of Donald Trump as the 47th president of the United States, we once again reflect on what it means to live as disciples in a complex and diverse nation. Our communities are beautifully interwoven with individuals from varied backgrounds, perspectives, and stories. In such times, we are called not to retreat into division, but to step forward as agents of peace, advocates for justice, and builders of a beloved community grounded in equity, compassion, and understanding. This call to “do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God,” as the prophet Micah reminds us, transcends any political administration and challenges us to embody God's love in all we do.
Giovanni Arroyo 2022
The Rev. Giovanni Arroyo serves as top executive of the United Methodist Commission on Religion and Race, the agency formed to hold the denomination accountable to its commitment to reject racism in the life of the church. (Photo by Mike DuBose, UM News.)
Our mission to work for racial justice, intercultural understanding, and inclusion remains constant—not rooted in any political moment, but in the unchanging call of our faith. This journey brings us closer to the kind of world God envisions—a world where every person is valued and loved, where dignity is upheld, and where the full beauty of our diversity is celebrated. As people of faith, we recognize that building an inclusive society is not only our responsibility but a holy calling.
In light of this new administration, we pray that President-elect Trump and his leadership may embrace wisdom, justice, and a commitment to serve those on society’s margins. Let us actively support policies that promote unity, dignity, and care, and remain steadfast in resisting any language or action that degrades, excludes, or marginalizes our neighbors.
We urge you, our United Methodist family, to stand together in the pursuit of a just world. May our churches be spaces of welcome, where each voice is heard and where God’s love is evident in our actions and advocacy. Let us build bridges that connect rather than walls that divide, honoring the God-given worth of every individual and embracing the beauty of our differences.
This work is challenging, but it is rich with the promise of transformation, hope, and healing. Let us keep our hearts set on Christ’s example of radical love and inclusivity, allowing His Spirit to guide us as we move forward together.
May we continue to walk boldly toward justice, proclaiming in word and deed that all are created in God’s image, deserving of respect, dignity, and care. May we reflect the hope and love found in Christ, who knows, understands, and loves each of us deeply. And may we find strength in God’s call to “do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly,” allowing this truth to shape our lives, our communities, and our world.
In Christ’s peace and justice,
Rev. Dr. Giovanni Arroyo
General Secretary
General Commission on Religion and Race of The United Methodist Church