February 12, 2026 · 9:51 pm

Being like Berggrav

Bishop Berggrav on the cover of Time Magazine, December 25, 1944

“In this world of despotism and injustice, the Lutheran church will always be something dangerous or else it will cease to be a Christian church.” Eivind Berggrav, late Bishop of Norway addressing Assembly II of Lutheran World Federation, Hanover, 1952.

Just last year at this time, Lutheran social service organizations were being called money launderers, sex traffickers, and criminal conspiracies by members of the administration and DOGE supporters. As I’ve written and spoken about elsewhere, this was patently ridiculous as they generously help 1 in 50 people in the USA and always strive to meet non-profit best practices including outside audits. Many organizations serve our international neighbors as well, especially since the ravages of World War 2. Certainly, here and there one can point to moral failures or ignorance, but overwhelmingly, these non-profit para-church organizations have historically been celebrated internationally and at home by those whom are liberal or conservative.

With the passage of time, people have moved on to other things to be publicly outraged about. An alleged concern for the budget has turned into gigantic expenditures for concerns over immigration and border control. A majority of the US population in turn has concerns about how this is being done according to polls, not just if it’s being done. (One poll shows that voters are split on deportations, but two-thirds feel ICE is acting in error.) Meanwhile despite drastic cuts and a country in political conflict, these parachurch organizations continue to try to love our neighbors concretely.

Of course, sometimes trying to do what’s right means putting up with slander or worse. In Bishop Eivind Berggrav’s case, he was arrested by the Nazis in Norway, and sent to a concentration camp. He was the primate of the Church of Norway, and as he would not cooperate with their desired control of the Church’s messaging and practice, he was considered a threat as do many individuals.

The Church under Bishop Berggrav’s leadership and urging refused to alter the liturgy and scripture to fit anti-simitic norms and Nazi cult preferences, compromise their youth groups, or allow Nazis to dictate how the Church serves their neighbors – all of them. After his arrest, a majority of Church of Norway bishops and pastors gave up their state offices in protest. (It was a national church in Norway, not a “free Church” as in the US, so the symbolism and impact was significant and dangerous.) Due to the intervention of some German dissidents, his life was spared and solitary confinement followed. While under house arrest, he was able to secretly help lead the ongoing resistance against the Nazis. Some sources indicate that some guards even helped him leave his confinement to do so.

Our modern issues might be different, but the true Church often remains in conflict with the powers too often wrongly ruling our hearts and our world; sadly blinding us to empathy and compassion. Indeed, some deeply mistaken if not sinful pastors wrongly call such longstanding Christian values a sin. Yet despite aspersions, being true to our faith and seeking to love all our neighbors remains critical at all times. There should be no compromise.

Yet, life is complicated. The above doesn’t mean all laws are to be cast out or ignored, as border control and fair immigration laws can help protect everyone to include immigrants. I agree when people say, “I lock the door to my home, and it’s good to know who is in any country.” I also understand those who have been given much by God have a sacred responsibility to generously care and share with others which for some might include offering a path to citizenship. It certainly includes making some sacrifices to help the poor and oppressed in other countries too. I’m not making light of anyone’s understandings or concerns, but I do hope to stretch them.

Despite some passionate and sincere voices, I know there are dangers if immigration policy is not enforced. When a police officer, I remember encountering the realities of gang activity and violence related to immigration issues of the 1980s and 1990s. I saw the violence and can’t unsee it. I experienced the frustration when people that I arrested for violent crimes were here illegally yet set free on bond and ultimately did not appear in court. I remember receiving grave warnings about booby traps and ambushes.

Yet even amidst danger, if laws and their enforcement don’t reflect justice with mercy, and we struggle to understand that all people are our neighbors and derserve humane treatment, and prosecution is selective or politically punitive, the Church needs to stand firmly and unequivocally against those unjust practices. It must also speak to grace and generosity. Unfortunately, such stances won’t be welcomed by some. Thus, it can take courage.

If Christian, our individual manifestation of this call might not always be found in active, peaceful, public protest so popular in our culture, although it remains the important calling of many. Violent protest and interfering with force of any kind in law enforcement proceedings is a huge risk to yourself and others. There’s a time for war, the Bible says, but let’s not hastily assume it’s now. Mob justice isn’t justice either, and peaceful protests have been making a valuable difference.

And if you are a Federal agent or government official reading this, what then? One can seek to exemplify patience and as much gentleness as possible even as an angry crowd surrounds you. Expect and demand ethical behavior from yourself, and if one sees violations report them to authorities that will listen and act against them. Be on guard about “group think fears” that danger is lurking everywhere, as for decades, research has showed it makes one more prone to violence. We are to see Jesus in those suffering but also our enemies. (This is an ancient belief dating back to the Church Fathers.) Don’t celebrate violence, for violence is not God’s will for the world even if deemed necessary in a fallen world. If the wrong is too much for you to stand up to or change in your agency, resign and speak out. It will be stressful but God will provide. At all times and every level of government, police legitimacy matters, and a lack of legitimacy in many people’s minds is making violence and accidental injury or death much more possible for both agent and citizens.

The immigration debate is an important one. I can’t solve it here. It might never be solved to everyone’s satisfaction no matter who is in power. For a democratic republic to work, one has to give and take. The same goes for policies trying to meet all our wants and help the hurting people of the world. Jesus knows the poor will be with us always until he comes again (Matthew 26:11, Mark 14:7, John 12:8), but he also asked us to love, serve and help them anyway. Certainly, we must vote with all its risks and problems. Yet most importantly, whatever our calling, whatever form of government, our daily witness to love our neighbor – while inviting or inspiring others to do so – makes a difference. And, that often overlooked, “ordinary” witness can come in many forms.

If in favor of the policies in place, how can they be reformed to have less mistakes or abuses occur, as well as lower anger against the policy? If against, how can one communicate this with tolerance, patience, and not becoming what one says one hates? We have to see one another as nothing more than what we all are – fallible humans, prone to hubris induced blindness, in need of love and forgiveness. Not all protestors are “terrorists,” and not all agents are “evil,” although any of what we do on any day can be unwittingly evil, and all of our choices and insights fall short due to sin.

Our society is sick right now, and we need God’s help and guidance to heal. And so, God is calling you, me and all to be part of the answer to our collective problems – ultimately sin. God’s call varies as much as God’s people, but the call also can include changing over time. Don’t be afraid to repent, a turning back to God and God’s ways. One can’t settle or refuse to change with the Spirit (not a matter of changing with the times necessarily). Whatever our vocation, whatever stage of life one is at, God calls all of us to love our neighbor as ourselves concretely in both word and deed. Our goal is as Micah 6:8 says, “To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

Anything else is falling short. It matters not if it’s the government representing us, a church or para-church organization, or our own actions day to day, we need to work together, as hopeless or impossible as it might seem, to make the world a better place. We need to hold others to a just account when wrong for their own sake as well as society’s. We are called to offer forgiveness, responding as peacefully as one is able while being a human in a fallen world. And perhaps among the hardest things, remain open to reconciliation. Ultimately, we are not to sit on the sidelines, lose hope, or give up. For, Christ is our hope, and he has shown us how to love – unto our death.

Sadly in the unhealthy tenor of these times, critiques, criticism or doing what is right can result in condemnation if not attacks. I’ve had people say they are afraid to speak or post what they think pro or con, on any issue. Yet calling for kinder treatment, following the law and established use of force policies, or even patience as one deals with or works through both just or unjust anger is not something we as Christians should be disagreeing about. It’s our only way forward.

Yes, some violent protests have happened, but it’s not the norm despite some catastrophizing claims. Certainly, some violent criminals are being removed but government reports say they are the minority despite political claims. (ICE data in November 2025 analyzed by the Cato Institute indicated that only 5% had a violent conviction. Nearly half had no criminal conviction nor even any pending criminal charges.) True, some anarchists and people who often frequent protests are present at protests, but the vast majority are just regular, concerned citizens and neighbors. I know of people in Minnesota protesting when they never have protested before. With reported aggressiveness and questionable uses of force, even a two time Trump voter and still admitted MAGA supporter expressed concerns to me recently over how things are being done. Can’t we do better? Right now, things seem at a pretty low bar. We have to.

Thus, I’ve been thinking a lot about Bishop Berggrav and others in the church who stood up for justice. Some worked behind the scenes while in government positions like Bonhoeffer. Others valiantly spoke out risking death like Martin Luther King or Oscar Romero. Still others were quieter witnesses serving all others out of the spotlight like Br. Roger of Taize’ during World War 2 – helping Jews during the war and German POWs afterwards. Countless others did their part to bring goodness into a bad situation but will never be known but to God.

We all need to consider what we can do to act in love rather than react in anger or fear in our social space. (This includes social media.) This should not be seen as a claim that we are facing Nazis (or “terrorist immigrants” for that matter) under every bed. Yet we aren’t loving others when our justice system doesn’t reflect the love of Christ and laws are too often disregarded or worked around. Americans and other legal residents have been wrongly detained. I’ve noted what appears to be unnecessary aggressiveness and occasions of excessive force. People have died needlessly. And agents and government officials have been caught in lies. It’s all too common and happening too much. It’s not about left or right. It’s about justice. It’s about loving as God loves us through law and gospel. We need to repent for our part and call others to repentance. If we do otherwise, look away, or stay silent, we might be the ones on the wrong side of the border when it comes to God’s law and his gospel grace.

In following such a call, we will likely be misunderstood. Many may accuse us. Many more will never listen. We might be threatened or face violence. Yet, this proved Jesus’ path, too, and we, the Church, are meant to be his living body walking in his love. No matter how bumpy or unclear the road, we remain his. Be comforted, and seek to act justly and with mercy without delay.

Scripture for meditation: [Jesus said,] “If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, therefore the world hates you. Remember the word that I said to you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they keep my word, they will also keep yours.” (John 15:19-20)

Let us pray: Mighty God, you gave your servant Eivind Berggrav, together with the bishops and faithful priests of Norway, strength and courage to resist tyranny, to defend your ancient people the Jews, and to uphold the rights of your church: So strengthen our faith by their witness, we pray, that we in our generation may serve you faithfully and confess your Name before the world; through your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Eivind Berggrav is commemorated by the Church on January 14 for his Christian life and witness.

I previously wrote about Bishop Berggrav when I first started my blog, the very first post on January 14, 2011. You can learn a bit more about him here.

© 2026 The Rev. Louis Florio. All content not held under another’s copyright may not be used without permission of the author. Scripture passages are from the NRSVue translation unless otherwise indicated

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February 6, 2026 · 10:32 pm

Walking together, peace is made real

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid. (John 14:27)

The Walk for Peace went by my neighborhood yesterday. As I posted on social media, I was happy to “meet” them. Peace is a good thing and a shared desire. I respect their witness even if I’m of a different faith. (As someone wrote after publication, Buddhism is often characterized as a philosophy, although it is generally classified as a world religion. It can be adapted even to a secular approach to life. It is hard to pin down.)

The Walk for Peace heads toward Route 95 and the City of Fredericksburg from Spotsylvania County.

As I wrote a friend, there are some parallels in Christian monasticism and spirituality with Buddhism. Mindfulness and being present, hospitality, graciousness, peace are concepts among them. Thomas Merton, a Benedictine Monk, ended up exploring that dynamic later in his life.

Sadly, I’ve seen some dogmatic, conservative Christians calling them names in posts, damming them to hell, or insulting Christian congregations that housed or fed them. Yet, any calls for peace are a good place to start a conversation or cooperation. Plus, they seem to forget that hospitality to the stranger is a core Christian value regardless of who the strangers are.

And although Jesus was taking about people ministering in his name who were not disciples, I suspect God can use the monk’s efforts. Jesus said, those that aren’t against us are for us. It is helpful to meet our neighbors and strangers with hospitality and grace as Jesus taught, especially those trying to meet us with grace and kindness themselves; desiring and offering peace.

A Methodist pastor suggested to me that if their efforts ignite interest or efforts of our Christian desire for justice and peace, he is glad. I concur. It has always deepened my faith to interact with the beliefs of others including their very different or oppositional views, questions, or doubts. If the teachings of Christ are true, we need not be afraid or angry about their walk. I can’t imagine Jesus meeting them without kindness. And Luther used to argue that those who would find Christ must first find the Church. We should meet them in his name without poising, pressure, or worse, abuse.

As the Venerable Monks walked through Spotsylvania County and Fredericksburg, they walked through and added to history. Spotsylvania knows the pangs of war. As captured in the novel, Roots, too many, including Kunta Kinte, were held or died as slaves here. Known as the crossroads of the Civil War, several battles raged there with horrific human cost. The county did not return to its pre-Civil War population until the mid-1960s, about 100 years.

As they walked under Route 95, they crossed under one of the busiest highways and the longest north-south road in the US connecting Maine to Florida toward the City of Fredericksburg. It’s also known for the Civil War, but it’s also steeped in Revolutionary War history. It was the first stop of the famous Freedom Rides of the 1960s as well.

Less commonly recognized among its sites is a small monument made of stone which honors the Virginia Statute of Religious Freedom, a foundational document drafted by Thomas Jefferson and others in Fredericksburg (1777). Inspiration for the later Bill of Rights’ call for religious freedom, it declared no person should suffer for their religious beliefs. The Walk for Peace passed very close (about one block away) to the location where Jefferson and others conferred on the matter in our Old Town. Unfortunately, the building no longer stands.

Crossing the bridge into Stafford County, they gazed upon Chatham Manor site of a slave revolt in 1805 and where President Lincoln later observed a Union military dress review as people fought to end slavery in their time. They were walking approximately a mile from George Washington’s Boyhood home.

The Fredericksburg region is known for much, particularly its history including the ravages of war, slavery, and human hatred. How splendid the community had the opportunity to gather and pause together around the Venerable Monks’ Walk for Peace to contemplate a shared hope that crosses races, faiths, and nationalities.

We may never know complete peace in this life, but we can catch glimpses of it in our lives today. It can be through public moments like this or concrete, relational moments few others notice. Still, peace breaks in, because that is God’s will. And if a believer, our recognized source of all peace, a peace beyond understanding, invites us to take note and believe. For all things are possible through him.

The Walk for Peace crosses the Rappahannock toward Stafford County. Chatham Manor is on the bluff obscured by trees to the right of the photo.

© 2026 The Rev. Louis Florio. All content not held under another’s copyright may not be used without permission of the author. Scripture passages are from the NRSVue translation unless otherwise indicated

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January 22, 2026 · 9:34 pm

Don’t be so quick with the table flipping

Have you seen this recent meme and posts about it?

First off, she never said this. We really need to have our yes mean yes and our no mean no just as Jesus said. Disinformation is problematic and often harmful in the long run if we claim that we want any kind of justice. I have seen people write about this as if a quote. It doesn’t matter who we are or how we vote, our personal honor is important because it builds trust, helps build relationships, and over time, what we say might eventually influence people in surprising ways. Please be careful reposting memes and quotes, as people can be mislead.

Why is this important? We live in caustic times. If people don’t trust us, we lose the opportunity to positively influence others. If we are correct in our opinions or beliefs, left or right, why lie of tolerate those who do? I think we should not, and yes, that should include lies from those in political parties and authority of any kind. It should not matter if we agree with their stated goals.

Attorney General Bondi did say it was unacceptable to interrupt services and federal authorities would charge those who do it. This leads to my second point. Virginia already has laws on the books against this kind of protest action or disturbance dating to the 1950s. I suspect others do as well. Just as with the mask laws, it seems the law was partly in response to the KKK and other such groups active at the time due to struggles over Civil Rights. I’d like to suggest there are better ways to influence change including peaceful protests outside the church or faith community. That seems to generally be the law already. To become what we say we hate – again left or right – is a grave error often making things worse and hardening hearts. It can become fodder for more untruths or questionable legal actions.

All faith communities should be protected from unlawful interference as with our homes. It matters not if their theology or politics is bad in your view, because someone could claim the same about your faith community and take action. And if someone does not believe in a god, they should not be harassed. That’s what the constitutional mandate for Freedom of Religion protects. We should seek to love and respect the humanity of other humans even if deemed our enemies. We should seek to encounter people as the individuals they are, not say, “All (fill in the blank) are bad.” This does not negate social repercussions, law suits, or convictions when the group opposed to us doesn’t live to this standard, but our giving up our moral and ethical values to achieve our goals often proves like a cancer long term. I recognize the risks, but particularly if a Christian, we should understand that doing the right thing often comes with costs. It is why Jesus taught so often that we must take up our own cross and follow him.

If Jesus is Lord, and I believe he is, we must try not to act out of fear, and we should humbly seek to listen to one another. In the end, we might be the ones who are wrong. Regarding this meme people have pointed to Jesus’ “cleansing of the Temple” as a defense of the protesters. I think it’s important to note that he didn’t enter the inner sanctum. He was in the courtyard. Jesus was trying to embody scriptural prophesy, and he likely knew he was provoking authorities to precipitate his arrest and crucifixion. I don’t think Jesus’ situation and purpose fully informs our own. We are not Jesus. Otherwise, there would be plenty of churches having tables flipped every Sunday for their lack of love or other sinfulness. He might even chase you or me with that whip of cords, for at times, we likely all deserve it.

Art by Balage Balogh. See more of his work at Archaeology Illustrated here.

Fight for justice? Yes, but seek to love all the more – even those who persecute us. For God has promised a full and lasting justice is on its way.

Postscript: Sadly, on the evening of this post, I read that the White House X account changed a photo image itself. A woman arrested for her part in the above incident was altered to make it appear that she was crying. Presented as if true, the falsity of the image was soon identified. The person in charge of the White House account answered bluntly and unrepentantly, “Enforcement of the law will continue. The memes will continue.” Forgive us, Father, we know not what we do.

© 2026 The Rev. Louis Florio. All content not held under another’s copyright may not be used without permission of the author. Scripture passages are from the NRSVue translation unless otherwise indicated.

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December 24, 2025 · 6:06 pm

Instead of Festivus, Maybe It Should be “The Way of St. John Cantius for the Rest of Us”

Yesterday, I joked with friends that I was skipping Festivus this year. My list of grievances was just too long. Then, I was reminded of John Cantius in my reading.

Have you ever heard of St. John of Kanty (Cantius in Latin). His feast day was yesterday, but he actually died on December 24, 1473. A 15th-century Polish theologian, professor, and said to be an incredibly generous priest known for his austerity and devotion to the poor, he became the patron saint of Poland, Lithuania, teachers, students, and academic institutions. It struck me that his feast day being placed on what as a lark became known in modern times as Festivus (from Seinfeld, the television show) could seem ironic. His Christian witness is like an antidote to the human tendency for resentment, rumination, and griping.

Frank Costanza and John Cantius

If you are familiar with the television show, you probably remember that Festivus is a day for the “Airing of Grievances.” A character, Frank Costanza, humorously informs his family and friends, “I got a lot of problems with you people, and now you’re gonna hear about it!” Theoretically according to Festivusweb.com, this practice “can serve as a cathartic method to cleanse people of the evils of dissatisfaction.” Although that might seem to serve the self, I doubt that there are lasting benefits for the community.

In his life, John of Kanty knew disappointment and likely had valid grievances. All humans in a fallen world do to some extent. For example, it is recorded that he was removed from his teaching post at the University of Kraków due to jealousy from rivals. Facing false accusations, he was reassigned as a parish priest in Olkusz until eventually restored to his teaching position.

For someone called by God to scholarship, this must have been disconcerting if not crushing. Our vocations and dreams for the future are part of who we are after all. Such loss can result in a deep and lasting wound. Despite the disappointment of it all (or maybe through this experience by grace through faith), John sought to dedicate his life to humility and peace with others. (Could this be an example of post-traumatic growth?) His motto became, “Beware disturbing: it’s not sweetly pleasing; Beware speaking ill: for taking back words is burdensome.” He is also known for teaching, “Fight all error, but do it with good humor, patience, kindness, and love. Harshness will damage your own soul and spoil the best cause.”

Let us not assume that this means John was ignorant of sin and evil or ignored it. I’m sure he was disappointed and angry at times. (I imagine he was angry less often as he matured in faith, but it likely happened.) He probably fell short of his goal here and there because that’s what imperfect humans do. His teachings also do not mean that we should avoid standing up to or naming injustice and sin – sometimes more forcefully than at other times as needed. (John the Baptist shouting, “You brood of vipers!” comes to mind.) Though, I think it says much that John of Kanty didn’t seem to get stuck in such feelings. If he had, his life would have likely become deformed rather than transformed by Christ’s example and love. When looking at the entirety of John’s life, people did not remember shortcomings. They ultimately remembered God’s grace and peace at work through him.

This has concrete applications for many of us this time of year. As Christmas looms, not everyone is excited to be with family. Being in relationships always proves hard; sometimes incredibly hard. This morning, I was reminded by a short mindfulness meditation on the Calm app (Daily Calm with Tamara Levit, December 24, 2025) that despite our desire to share an harmonious time, old wounds or current struggles can make that complicated. The meditation reminded me that before seeing family, we can mediate (and, if Christian, pray) to calm ourselves and open our hearts wider toward others. If speaking on difficult topics, we can strive to slow down and mindfully choose each word. And if triggered, we can pause, breathe and reflect before committing to any response. This is wise, and I think it ultimately reflects many biblical teachings.

Sure, even Jesus was angry as he flipped tables in the Temple, but he was without sin. As fallen creatures, we aren’t so enabled naturally. Our anger can easily mutate into harm. The discussion at the Council of Jerusalem recorded in Acts 15 was likely tense if not loud at times. Also in Acts 15, Paul and Barnabas argued and had to go their separate ways. Hey, our beloved (real) St. Nicholas is said to have even struck the heretic, Arius, in the nose at the Council of Nicaea. And my theological friend, old Martin Luther, was known to be quite cranky in the 16th century sometimes speaking in grave error. In life, disagreements, disappointments, betrayal, even crimes against us happen, and we can fall short as a result. Once again, we are only human.

Jesus, who as part of our Triune God always existed, was born in the flesh as one person with two distinct natures—perfectly God and perfectly human. (In theology, we call thus the hypostatic union.) We are “creatures” created by God, and our created being uses emotions to process and interact with the world and one another. So, the Bible doesn’t tell us, “don’t get angry.” It reminds us not to sin in our anger. For that, we need God’s help including Christ’s own example and teachings.

So, we can benefit from and be blessed by community. We might need trusted friends, mentors, or counselors to dialogue with and unpack our anger so that we can seek a way forward. Or perhaps, as I’ve mentioned before, we can turn our cheeks and walk away. If doing so, we should seek to not emotionally stuff and ignore our feelings nor ruminate or gossip. There’s a middle ground available, allowing us to be human and feel feelings without getting stuck or sinning in response. We should also understand that we are not meant to emotionally cut off (not caring about others or never praying for them) but seek to establish a new boundary for personal or communal protection hoping for restoration or reconciliation all the while. As Jesus taught, we are to pray for our enemies; not forget they exist. And sometimes, all we can do is seek to let go of the situation leaving it in God’s hands emotionally so it doesn’t disturb or infect our prayer, vision, and actions. Praying for enemies might not help others, but it can help us move forward in love.

Not too long ago, I posted on social media a great article from The Christian Century, “Praying the imprecatory psalms with Bonhoeffer.” If you look it up, you will read that imprecatory psalms are biblical songs of lament that call for God to curse, judge, or destroy His enemies, with examples in Psalms like 35, 59, 69, and 109. As I wrote then, these Psalms reflect a very human sentiment, but they ultimately trust in God to provide justice. God’s our ultimate Defender and Provider to the Psalmist. Taken at face value out of context from other scriptures, they might seem like any old curse. Yet, Bonhoeffer provides a wonderful methodology to look deeper and move us toward compassion and love for “the enemy.”

We are told that Jesus fulfilled all the law and the prophets. When we lack our own words, the Psalms can help us find voice, but it is Jesus who helps us take heart by reshaping them; making them wider and bolder; gifting us with a sacred peace. Rethinking these Psalms through the lens of trusting in God’s ultimate justice and victory, turning our anger over to Jesus and praying as he prayed for our enemies, does make a difference. At the very least it changes us, and that gives us hope that maybe, if we persevere in trust and love, we can do something to make at least our bit of the world a bit better. I suspect St. John’s experience and wisdom shares the same holy roots.

Like many, I was let down by some people in 2025, but doesn’t that happen every year? People do that, sometimes in profoundly hurtful ways while doing what was right in their own eyes. Not unlike the situation in Judges 21:25, people can lose their way. And if self-reflective and honest, I must admit that I have let others and myself down at times too. That’s just being human as well. Yet turning to God’s word for guidance, using resources and tools available to us, humbly surrendering to God’s will while praying even for our enemies, trusting in and listening for the Spirit to guide us, we can avoid being stuck and become more than we are on our own. Indeed, we become freed from the weight of sin whether someone else’s or our own.

Like John of Kanty, people might look past our missteps and see the Prince of Peace working in and through our lives one day and relationship at a time. Our lives might even inspire others as we share the Good News through deed which might include our own repentance. When this happens, know this reflects Christ’s Kingdom rushing into the world through the imperfect vessels that we are. And in that, we and the world will be ultimately well blessed.

And when we fail? If we hurt others or fail to forgive when hurt by others, or even when we can’t seem to be able let go of the pain of the past, recognize that healing can take time. We learn as we go, and miracles can take shape over a lifetime. Like the lepers healed by Jesus in Luke 17, we might heal as we walk on. Holy wisdom and growth can come at any age. So, never stop trying to do better or give up hope. God’s healing love will be at work in us when we confess, repent, and try again. It’s ok to point out a wrong, sometimes it’s very important to do so, but instead of just airing grievances, God empowers us to do something about them. We can heal, and if others are willing and able, reconciliation might come at last.

© 2025 The Rev. Louis Florio. All content not held under another’s copyright may not be used without permission of the author. Scripture passages are from the NRSVue translation unless otherwise indicated.

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December 2, 2025 · 5:01 am

Goodbye?

“I’ll see you in the funny papers” is a phrase reportedly dating back to the 1920s. It was a lighthearted way to say goodbye. Yet true goodbyes are never easy, especially when forced upon you by unfortunate events. Due to a reported financial crisis at my most recent congregation, I was advised in October by leadership that there would be a recommendation made to transition to a single pastor model. So, long story short, I’ve resigned in exchange for a severance package. 

Today (December 1, 2025 as I write) was my first day without a full time call since ordination in 2007. My office is empty, some tears have been shed over these last weeks, but my heart remains full and hopeful. I will be working with the bishop’s office to discern my next call in a congregation or in some other role. Prayers are appreciated as I seek what’s next, although I firmly believe God’s in the mix and always working for my (really our) welfare. You can learn something from bad experiences as well as good even if only to hold on to God more tightly than one did before. (God will ultimately never disappoint.)

Indeed, wherever we go, whatever our vocation or situation, we can always love and serve God and neighbor, and that’s been a source of great joy throughout my life – working, laid off; in higher income positions, lower income positions, or with no income at times. (I’ve been through all such periods before having worked in both secular and faith based positions.) I firmly believe that money is really only a tool. It’s the giving and receiving that comes through love based relationships and service that makes one truly rich. 

Farewell gathering (November 16, 2025)

Looking back, I will certainly miss most deeply the youth at my recent congregation as I walk on, and I will always love them. I witnessed unique gifts in each one of them, and I found blessing through our time together. (I hope they did too.) As with others who I have come to love before through my police work, volunteering with the Community of Taize,’ as a houseparent and teacher at St. Joseph’s Indian School, as a researcher and writer at First Nations Development Institute, or while serving as a hospice and hospital chaplain as well as many other places and spaces, I know they have become part of who I am and how I will love and serve the Lord and others forever. The communion of saints is real, and nothing can truly separate us when God has connected us through love. 

My favorite comic strip as a young adult was always Bloom County, and it still can make me smile reading the old strips that are now digitized or in collections on my bookshelf. As a fan, I developed a special affinity for Opus the Penguin. I admired his innocence and how that could lead him to make keen if ironic observations about life. I came to think of him this week in relationship to my current situation. In the “final” strip, you see the familiar scenes empty of life. The colorful artwork fades to white within the panel, and Opus waddles on into the unknown to the distress and sadness of fans. (He looked sad, too.)

Bloom County, August 6, 1989

Yet ultimately this departure led to new books, totally new comic strips with reimagined characters and plots, and adventures on television including a Christmas special. Bloom County even came back after a prolonged absence as the original comic strip in recent years thanks to social media. So maybe there’s something we can learn from the funny papers after all. Life is not always easy. It won’t always be funny or fun. Yet who one shares life with brings joy to our journey. And a somewhat innocent, hopeful attitude can help us on our way no matter how many times life knocks us down.

Best of all, our own story never really ends…God’s making all things new (Isa. 43:19). Thus, I guess it’s time for me to waddle my way toward what God has in store for me next. I can do so boldly and with confidence (with the Spirit’s help and support of family and friends anyway). Whatever condition I might find myself in, it can serve God’s will and prove to my benefit. For as Paul writes, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28); including within any unexpected end to one’s position or perceived security.

© 2025 The Rev. Louis Florio. All content not held under another’s copyright may not be used without permission of the author. Scripture passages are from the NRSVue translation unless otherwise indicated.

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November 19, 2025 · 2:28 pm

God sees you

Keeping the faith, really trust in God, is not easy in a fallen often unfair world. So, how do we walk on?

It helps if we tend to our whole being as best we can before disaster strikes. Tend to our mind, body and emotions, but seek the Lord, too. Friendships grow in love and trust as you spend more time with them. This proves true with Jesus as well. Prayer, worship, scripture study, fellowship with believers, service in his name can all help you grow stronger in faith and understanding. These can also help lift your spirits and sustain you.

Amidst any storm, turn to him most certainly but look for the resources and supports God has thrown you to keep you afloat until safety returns. Remember, it’s ok to not be ok. Consider counseling, support groups, and medical assistance if needed. Turn to and be vulnerable with trusted friends and family who love you. Remember that you belong to Jesus. This, too, shall pass.

Like the psalmist, express your emotions honestly with God. God understands you are only human, but understand that God’s love for you is steadfast and perfect; beyond anything any human can offer you. We might be tempted to give up, but look to the hills for your help.

God sees us, and God will deliver us. As I’ve said before, God will not give up on us. Keep your head up, and look with confidence for your Lord who loves you.

© 2025 The Rev. Louis Florio. All content not held under another’s copyright may not be used without permission of the author. Scripture passages are from the NRSVue translation unless otherwise noted.

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November 16, 2025 · 12:14 pm

Thy will be done?

They are four simple words, “Thy will be done.” It’s a phrase easy to say, but it proves hard to live. On the mountain top, it’s easier to trust God’s love. It seems that you can see forever. Walking in the messy, dark valleys of our days, it proves much harder. Even Elijah almost gave up when his life was at risk. So, is it really a surprise that we who are not great prophets can struggle?

No, God understands our weakness, but more than that, God loves us. As a favorite song of mine says, God can’t love us more than God loves us right now. We are promised God’s will is for our ultimate good. Can we hold on? In our day, can we see signs, no matter how small, to help sustain us? God’s Spirit groans in prayer for us with words we can’t seem to say. Angels might be ministering to us in ways we can’t detect. The laughter of a child or smile of a friend can bring us joy. The songs of birds at the sunrise invite our own hearts to sing in praise.

“Thy will be done” is often rightly said in the acceptance of suffering as Jesus did before he was crucified. Yet, never forget that God’s ultimate will is to love us forever. Pain passes and even death has no power over us. So, maybe…just maybe… “Thy will be done” should be said with hope, although we might still say it through tears.

As we accept our crosses, real or imagined, remember the resurrection that we will be part of someday. As Paul rights, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28). We are loved and chosen. We will never be forgotten or cast away by God even when it seems the world might give up on us or want to cast us aside. In fact, Jesus promises he’s here with us always to the end of the world.

Amidst any suffering, accident or betrayal, whatever happens or fails to occur like we wish, Jesus, too, is here with us; calling us to accept our cross, pick it up and walk in faith. All is well even when life’s seemingly unfair.

© 2025 The Rev. Louis Florio. All content not held under another’s copyright may not be used without permission of the author. Scripture passages are from the NRSVue translation unless otherwise noted.

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November 10, 2025 · 5:44 pm

Here we stand: The Holy People of God (Sermon)

Image: Charles O’Donnell, Detail from “Ancient city of Jerusalem with Solomon’s Temple,” ca. 1871. Public domain, via Wikimedia commons.

The below sermon was preached on Reformation Sunday, September 28, 2025, following the Narrative Lectionary (Year 4). The preaching text was 1 Kings 5:1-5; 8:1-13.

For those who might not know, the Books of First and Second Kings were originally one book. The stories within cover an expansive narrative of Israel’s kings from the end of David’s reign through the Babylonian Captivity. (That’s about 400 years.) In them, you can discover ancient history with moral and ethical high points, and often people who fall short in their love for God and neighbor.

Today, we join King Solomon, David’s son, blessed with great wisdom by God, as the nation dedicates its long-awaited Temple for their God on Mount Moriah in Jerusalem. With that gift of wisdom, Solomon had led his people well. Israel was experiencing both peace and prosperity. His God given gift has led to this great blessing for the people of Isreal. They are a people whom God has declared Qodesh Olam, “the Holy People of God.” Yet, they aren’t Holy because of anything they do. They are holy because God has chosen them, loves them, and wishes to live among them.

Yet hold on to your hammers and nails, you good Lutherans out there (it is Reformation Sunday after all), because there’s much more to this story. The Temple Mount and the Temple itself have long been a part of salvation history before we ever come to this day of Temple dedication – the Temple being what becomes the center of all priestly activities and place of cultic sacrifice. You might recall the story of Abraham binding Isaac so that Isaac might be sacrificed on a mountaintop in the Land of Moriah. In lieu of this, God provides a ram to be sacrificed. This is believed by many Jewish, Christian, and Muslim persons to be the site of what is now called the Temple Mount. You can find a large bolder there located under the present-day mosque which people suggest is where it all happened.  

As the story of the Jewish people unfolds through a time of slavery in Egypt and beyond, we eventually get to King Saul. The people have been tribal and nomadic once in the Holy Land. The were anxious to move from governance by tribal leaders, known as Judges, toward governance by kings. God indicated that the Israelites did not really need a king. God was their ultimate king. Still, God said, “OK.”

Then, when David replaces Saul, he conquers a city, named Jebus, owned by a foreign people. Now firmly Isreal’s, David renames the city, Jerusalem. It will become their capital. He joyfully dances before the Ark of the Covenant as it is carried to be placed within the Tent of Meeting. As the Tent of Meeting and the Ark moved through the desert with Moses’ people, wherever they people camped, it was always placed in the center of the Tribes. Symbolically, this reminded them that God and their Holy Covenant was to remain central to their lives within community. The city itself was also chosen to be the capital because it was in a relatively central, neutral location between the twelve tribes, had strong defenses, and was where the story of Abraham and Isaac occurred. Jerusalem would become where the Tent and Ark would now dwell.

As the nation grew and David and his people looked around at other growing nations or city states, David began to think, “Hmmm, maybe we need a great Temple to honor God as well as our nation.” That’s what all his neighbors had after all, so why not Israel? Well, through the Prophet Nathan, God basically says, “I was perfectly happy traveling with you in the wilderness within the Tent of Meeting. I don’t need a Temple…but if you do, ok.” God relents once again. Yet because of David’s sin and other faith issues, always still beloved by God, God decrees that the Temple will not be built until David’s son becomes the king. This is not too unlike Moses when he was not allowed to see the Promised Land. David never gets to see the Temple.

Finally, we arrive back to the glorious dedication of the Temple with Solomon. Seven years have passed since work began with a great financial cost, the investment of lots of sweat and toil, and like modern construction sites today, perhaps at the cost of some lives as well. That would be likely. Great excitement and joy must have been generated in the city as the Israelites prepared to move the Ark from Mount Zion to the neighboring Mount Moriah.

Again, today this location is known as the Temple Mount. All the religious and political leaders are there (the “insiders”), but all the commoners and less than common people are there too (the average people and the “outsiders”).  All the people, no matter how rich or poor, weak or strong, perfect or imperfect, have been decaled the Holy People of God, so they are there. The covenant and promises made with Abraham, Moses, and other patriarchs include each and every one.

God will reside in the inner sanctum of the Temple, an area available only to Priests and hidden behind a large curtain. (This curtain will tear as Jesus dies. Some suggest this symbolizes the Kingdom breaking into our world through Jesus’ death and resurrection.) Golden cherubim located opposite one another over the Ark will sit with wings spread toward one another. This will continue to serve as God’s throne, his “mercy seat,” where God’s presence was said to dwell, and the ultimate God would mercifully deign to speak to and bless his Holy People. They must have thought that the Temple might last forever just like their God…but it didn’t. Babylon will invade Israel and destroy it. Cyrus the Persian will defeat the Babylonians and rebuild it. It will be defiled later by the Greeks and even later conquered by the Romans.

Then, Herod the Great, will be installed as a vassal king serving Rome, and he will look at the Temple and think in his pride, “We need better to reflect my glorious reign.” And as we know from scripture and historians of the time, he was not a great believer, but Herod the Great understood politics. His expansion of the Temple would beautify a place for faithful people to gather, but it was also a place to reflect his own glory as it becomes through its size and splendor a Wonder of the Ancient World.

Yes, Herod the Great’s work will become the Temple that Jesus and his Apostles would know and love. It will be the Temple the Apostles will marvel at before Jesus’ death because of the large and ornate stones. Yet Jesus would respond, “As for these things that you see, the days will come when not one stone will be left upon another; all will be thrown down” (Luke 21:5). Later, Jesus will declare that he will become our cornerstone (Luke 20:16-18). The Apostles and world will soon learn that life has never been about just nations or kings, tents or temples, sacrifice or worship. Jesus wanted to build a Church out of you and me and millions of others like us. Over the centuries as had happened with the Jewish People, what will matter most is that God comes again and again, despite our pride or mistakes, success or failures, to form us into one Holy People of God. We will stand together forever through God’s power, promises, and help.

 And when the Temple is finally destroyed in 70 AD, and all that fine furnishings, holy vessels, and wealth were carried away by the Roman Legion to Rome, we see that Ecclesiastes was right. “All is vanity.” The earliest Christians finally came to understand promises of old in a new way. From Ezekiel we hear, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws” (Ezekiel 36:26-27).

No temple, church building, or anything else is needed other than faith in Jesus. For through faith, we become a “living temple” where God has longed to reside. Yes, it was God’s plan all along. Just as a cloud filled the Temple, the Glory of the Lord hungers to fill us and overflow. It desires because of love for us to dwell in our hearts and make us one through God’s own Spirit.

As Professor Amy Oden suggests,[i] I think people do like to try to put God in one place…to restrain God and define God for their own advantage or comfort…or to limit or doubt the capacity for God to save (perhaps not always wittingly)…or maybe it is because they don’t yet fully trust God’s love or love God fully with their hearts. Despite human doubts and darkness, or any evil of this world, likely because of it, we are told the Spirit is on the move (Genesis 1:2, Acts 2:1-4). God is doing new things (Isaiah 43:19). And God guides and blesses us on our way as we move through valleys of darkness and the heights of joy (Psalm 23).

Certainly, temples can be destroyed. People and their congregations will die before Jesus returns. Yet, we are to always trust God’s great and steadfast love for us. For even as we stand between hope and despair, God becomes our bulwark defending the weak and helpless (Psalm 9:9, 12:5). “Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; [God] lifts his voice, the earth melts,” and yet, the God of Jacob proves our mighty fortress (Psalm 46:6-7, NIV translation).

Friends, we might not always feel like it, nor live up to it, but God has declared that we are the Holy People of God. We have become Christ’s body by our faith and baptism through grace alone. Whatever comes our way, through fire or pouring rain,[ii] as the Evil One devises any plans,[iii] we need not be shaken. Although our own strength might fail us, God never will.[iv] God’s love and mercy will see to it that the Holy People of God will stand eternally. Amen.

[i] Ogden, A.G. Commentary on 1 Kings 5:1-5; 8:1-13. Working Preacher.

[ii] Bethel Music. “We Will Not Be Shaken (Live).” We Will Not Be Shaken, Bethel Music, 2015.

[iii] The Imperials. “Let the Wind Blow.” Let the Wind Blow, Myrrh/Word Records, 1985

[iv] Martin Luther, “Ein feste Burg ist unser Gott.” 1529.

© 2025 The Rev. Louis Florio. All content not held under another’s copyright may not be used without permission of the author. Scripture passages are from the NRSVue translation unless otherwise noted.

If you would like to listen to the above sermon or watch our service, the video can be found below. The sermon begins at about the 29:15 minute mark. 

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October 30, 2025 · 3:58 pm

The truth of friendship

Image created with the Bible App.

The Apocrypha including texts like the Book of Sirach is not considered part of the Protestant cannon of scripture, but Martin Luther did suggest the Apocrypha was “profitable and good to read.” The Apocrypha is a collection of works primarily in Greek, and they can help provide historical context for the period between what is identified as Jewish scriptures and the Christian scriptures. They also can help us better understand God and our world.

As they contain teachings that some traditions find unbiblical, they can be challenged. Jewish people of Luther’s time and today have consistently found that they are not the level of scripture. That said, the Roman Catholic and Orthodox world both consider the Apocryphal texts scripture, but they do recognize some different texts as part of those works. So, there’s no fully ecumenical or interfaith consensus. Our Lutheran bibles often include them with explanation (and we do study them in seminary), but I’ve read some Protestant editions began to drop them over time after the Reformation to help make the Bible more affordable. So, they aren’t always well known.

And still, some Evangelicals and others – like Pat Robertson who I saw once denounce them as dangerous – have had no use for them. It’s a minority voice among worldwide Christianity, and I have suggested that if such people don’t want you to risk reading the Apocryphal texts, then perhaps they should offer the same counsel about their own writings available for purchase. For, those aren’t scripture either.

I stand with Luther. There’s no consensus among Jewish traditions nor Christian ones regarding them. That gives me pause to consider them scripture. Yet, they are profitable and good to read, for historical insights or wisdom including this saying by Sirach about friends (Sirach 6:14-17):

14 A faithful friend is a sturdy shelter:
    he that has found one has found a treasure.
15 There is nothing so precious as a faithful friend,
    and no scales can measure his excellence.
16 A faithful friend is an elixir of life;
    and those who fear the Lord will find him.
17 Whoever fears the Lord directs his friendship aright, for as he is, so is his neighbor also.

Through chapter 6, he argues, “True friends are discerned not by prosperity (v. 11), but through the trials of adversity: distress, quarrels (v. 9), sorrow (v. 10) and misfortune (v. 12) (USCCB Daily Readings, 2025).

The Book of Sirach which was written in Hebrew remains the oldest example of such wisdom literature. It is absolutely applicable to modern times as it addresses friendship. Similar to Proverbs or Ecclesiastes, it offers helpful sayings about ethics written by Yeshua ben Eleazar ben Sira (Ben Sira), a Hellenistic Jewish scribe of the Second Temple period, yet it also can inspire or encourage.

Friends prove a treasure as other scriptural texts and my own life suggest. Friends helped me reconnect to the Church and lift me up after traumas in my past. Friends helped identify my call as a pastor, and they have concretely and through prayer supported my work. Friends helped me as I grieved the death of loved ones, faced cancer, or experienced past jobless periods in my life. In many ways, I discover Gospel truth and holy wisdom through them, not of the level of scripture but true nonetheless.

Friends, new and old, I covet your prayers always, and give thanks for you as I pray. Peace+ and love be with you this day and always. Yet if you ever find yourself doubting or afraid, if you ever feel like giving up, remember your trusted friends. For Christ is waiting in their hearts ready to help and embrace you.

© 2025 The Rev. Louis Florio. All content not held under another’s copyright may not be used without permission of the author. Scripture passages are from the NRSVue translation.

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October 9, 2025 · 4:39 am

My defender

Over the last few years, I’ve had people besmirching my reputation and my faith because I’ve defended police (all cops are not bastards), prayed for the President after an assassination attempt, or said national guard troops were not appropriate for a police issue, or argued that anyone deported or arrested should always be treated with respect. I even had someone claim that I likely would burn my VMI diploma because I suggested slavery was the cause for the Civil War and the southern memorial statue (clearly propaganda) should not be returned to Arlington Cemetery. (They said I was an embarrassment to VMI.)

There are other examples, but basically, I always try to speak the truth as I see it and repent if proved wrong. This song by my friends Nick Henretty and Sarah Henretty has been helpful in helping my yes mean yes and my no mean no, as Jesus said and I’ve quoted much of late. (It’s true that my VMI experience helped me here too.) Yet, it also holds true when people who should have been more transparent with you aren’t and recognized your love for them but don’t.

God is my defender. I know God is near in my distress. I don’t have to fear. I don’t have to strike back. I can choose to do good to the best of my ability even amidst great sadness, gossip, threats, or lies. I invite you to listen. For God defends you too when you trust in him. Do and say what’s right, as best as you can discern it, no matter the opposition or how people might let you down or oppose you. God will help us stand – forever.

© 2025 The Rev. Louis Florio. All content not held under another’s copyright may not be used without permission of the author. Scripture passages are from the NRSVue translation.

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