From the rector: Reflections on the election

On Tuesday morning, I closed our elementary morning assembly with our familiar blessing: “Remember that life is short, and we have too little time to gladden the hearts of those who travel the way with us, so be quick to be …(the children shout ‘kind’), make haste to ….(the children shout ‘love’), and the blessing of God Almighty, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit be upon you and remain with you always. Amen.”

As we approach election day this coming Tuesday, I’m reminded of the lessons we strive to instill in our children — especially kindness, love, and respect. While elections can bring a range of emotions, our greatest responsibility is to model the virtues we teach every day. In this moment, we have an opportunity to show our children that we can share our beliefs thoughtfully and respectfully, even when others see the world differently. It’s one of the greatest gifts we can offer: an example of a community that holds itself together in love, especially when opinions differ. Fostering such a community is a core commitment and one of the greatest gifts of an Episcopal school.

We are blessed to live in a free country where voting is not just a right but a privilege, and it is our duty to remember this gift as we prepare the next generation to inherit it. I pray that our children see us live out the values we hold dear and learn to treat others with kindness and respect. During this last week of the campaign, and in the days that follow, I ask for the wisdom and grace to walk this path with love, kindness, and respect, and may our actions reflect the peace we wish for our world.

Sharing a prayer that may help all of us this time of year: "Almighty God, we ask for Your guidance in this time. May we be instruments of Your peace, offering kindness and respect to all we encounter. Help us to lead our children by example, showing them the beauty of love and understanding, and may Your blessing be upon us now and always. Amen."

Blessings,

Fr. Ben

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