A Moment for Faith to Speak Peace to the Storm
It’s hard to believe that we are already more than halfway through 2025, and what a year it has been for our culture and our politics.
So many of our loved ones and members of our communities are carrying deep worry not only about the present but about the future.
Our immigrant brothers and sisters are under attack.
Equity, inclusion, and diversity, both as ideals and as institutional commitments, are being dismantled and discredited.
The economy feels unstable. Jobs have been lost. Livelihoods have been shaken. All around us, there is turmoil and uncertainty.
And yet, as people of faith and goodwill, we have a responsibility in this moment to not only speak truth to power, but to be a refuge for our people. In a time of storm and struggle, we are called to offer steadiness and shelter.
While the world shakes, trembles, and worries, this is a moment for communities of faith to speak peace to the storm.
We want to offer a few reflections on what people of faith and goodwill are called to do in this moment.
Let people know where you stand.
When the world feels unsafe, when so many are wondering where they belong — clarity becomes a form of pastoral care. Let your congregation and your broader community know your values. Let them know who you stand with and what you will not stand for. In times of fear, people seek refuge. Be that refuge. Be that voice. Be that place.
Take action.
As communities rise to resist injustice, the presence of religious people, clergy, and people of conscience matters deeply. Whether in the streets, at city hall, or in school board meetings — show up. Stand up. Speak out. Let your faith move beyond the pulpit and into public life.
Reclaim the best of our faith traditions.
Our traditions call us not to hide or remain neutral, but to proclaim justice, love mercy, and walk humbly — and boldly — with our God. This is not a time for silence or retreat. This is a time for witness. A time for prophetic truth — spoken with our voices and walked with our feet.
Organize.
Your voice matters — but your voice joined with others becomes power. Power that can shift policies, protect our people, and transform what’s possible.
At Community Renewal Society, we are committed to organizing. We are building power alongside communities of faith across Illinois who believe that justice is both a spiritual and a civic calling.
We invite you to join us. Stand with us. Organize with us. Because together, we are stronger. Together, we are the storm’s resistance and the people’s refuge.
Keron Blair
CRS Community Impact and Special Projects Consultant