From Fear to Courage, From the Upper Room to the Streets
Before Pentecost, Jesus' disciples hid in fear. After Pentecost, filled with the Holy Spirit, they boldly stepped into the streets for public witness. Today, people of faith are called to do the same.
Amid growing fear in our nation—fueled by a political climate that threatens truth-tellers and targets the vulnerable— we are called to proclaim the truth that sets us free. Congress is debating a proposed budget that turns biblical values upside down by rewarding the wealthiest Americans with tax cuts while brutalizing the most vulnerable with massive cuts to clear social needs. The moment demands a visible, moral witness grounded in faith and justice.
What
A public procession and vigil led by clergy and congregants, religious and lay leaders at the U.S. Capitol before a key Senate vote on a reconciliation package that threatens to slash care for the sick, in Medicaid, and feeding the hungry, in SNAP: and other vital social programs that support and uplift vulnerable people among us.
When
Tuesday, June 10, just after Pentecost Sunday (June 8)—when Christians across the country will feel the spirit to find the courage to take faith into public action. 10am
Who
Clergy and people of faith from across our Christian traditions and others moved by moral conscience. We will come in robes, collars, and religious garb, singing, praying, testifying, story telling, reading Scripture verses about people experiencing poverty in the Bible and standing for justice–and a moral budget.
Where
The U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, DC. (Upper Senate Park--Area 2)
Why
Because people who are hungry, thirsty, immigrant, naked, sick, and imprisoned—the very people Jesus calls us to protect—are under real and dire threat. “As you have done it to them, you have done it to me.” This is a test both of our faith and our democracy.
How
We will:
-
Preach and invite participation in our congregations on Pentecost Sunday, June 8.
-
Gather in Washington at the Capitol for a procession, public vigil and witness on Tuesday, June 10.
-
Meet with our Senators and urge them to protect people who are vulnerable.
-
Report back to our congregations and communities the following Sunday.
-
Carry the witness of Pentecost into continued local action.