by Rev. Roberto Ochoa and FCUCC – Hastings, NE
Dear Friends of the Iowa Nebraska South Dakota Conferences of the United Church of Christ and beyond:
As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence that created our nation, let us remember that we are still struggling to meet the aspiration that all are created equal and live in the land of the free. Our freedom of expression in speech and religion are being tested, as recently exampled and experienced by one of our congregations in Nebraska, First Congregational UCC Hastings. The congregation was vandalized last week for apparently flying the LGBTQ Rainbow flag during Pride Month. A clear attack to our right of self-expression and Hastings UCC attempts to demonstrate in their community that all are welcomed and safe in their church.
I leave you with their notice to their congregation and friends and I applaud their continued commitment to being a good neighbor and working for a just world for all as Jesus’ calls us to do. Please offer your support and prayers to our siblings in Christ in Hastings, as you are able at office@fcucchastings.org.
Please know that I, the staff, and Board of Directors that make up the Iowa Nebraska South Dakota Conferences of the United Church of Christ stand by all our UCC congregations doing the work of Christ in name of Justice and Love in all our communities.
Bendiciones y Paz,
Rev Roberto
Special Statement to FCUCC Friends and Family!
First Congregational United Church of Christ is saddened to share that our Pride flag display was intentionally targeted on two separate occasions this past month, and a report has been filed with the Hastings Police Department.
As a congregation, we display these flags as a visible expression of our commitment to love our neighbors, extend hospitality, and affirm the sacred worth of every person, including our LGBTQ+ siblings. While we are disappointed by these acts of vandalism and theft, they do not change who we are or what we believe. Our commitment to being an Open and Affirming congregation remains steadfast. Symbols can be damaged or taken, but the love, compassion, and inclusion they represent cannot. Love is stronger than fear and our community is at its best when we stand together. FCUCC will continue to be a place where all are welcome, all are valued, and all are loved.
“No matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.”