Morton Memorial
United Methodist Church

Letter from Bishop Graves Continued...

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Scripture reminds us that human judgment is limited. “Where there is no guidance, a nation falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.” Proverbs 11:14. What one generation defends, another may grieve. This reality calls us to humility, to prayer, and to moral clarity shaped by Christ rather than by fear or nationalism.

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As the body of Christ, our preemptive action is love. Our preemptive response to fear is repentance, prayer, holy conferencing, and faithful witness.

 

Jesus teaches, “Blessed are the peacemakers.” Matthew 5:9. Peacemaking is not passive. It requires courage and persistence.

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In this season, we call our churches across the Central Appalachian Missionary Conference, the Kentucky Conference, and the Tennessee-Western Kentucky Conference:

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• Pray for an end to violence and for the protection of innocent lives.

• Pray for political and military leaders, that wisdom and restraint will guide their decisions.

• Care for veterans, active military families, immigrants, and refugees in your communities who may carry fear or trauma.

• Teach and model Christian peacemaking shaped by the life and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

 

We live in unpredictable times. Our mission remains steady. We turn first to our Creator. We take our tears and questions into prayer. We seek the wisdom God gives generously. We embody sacrificial love where God has placed us. And we continue to proclaim the mystery of faith:

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Christ has died. Christ is risen. Christ will come again.

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May the peace of Christ guard our hearts and guide our shared witness.

Grace and peace,

Bishop David Graves

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