Dean's Message for July 17, 2025

Author:
July 17, 2025

The concept of "liberty" has been on my mind, and not just because of our recent celebration of Independence Day. Many of the principles upon which the United States of America was founded are rooted in faith and scripture, but sometimes the practice and application of these principles stray from my view of justice, mercy and humility. This week we will read the familiar parable of the Good Samaritan, which as you will recall opens with a lawyer standing up to "test Jesus" and "wanting to justify himself". (Before I alienate all my lawyer friends, I would note that a priest was the first person who avoided the robbery victim who was ultimately aided by the Samaritan.) The tension between a nation that values liberty but also imposes law and order is everpresent, and it is my belief that faith can shape our actions and beliefs in these areas as in all things. The lawyer in the parable got the answer right—the neighbor was the one who showed mercy, as we should all aspire to do.

"There's a wideness in God's mercy like the wideness of the sea; there's a kindness in his justice, which is more than liberty" (Hymnal 470).

The Very Reverend Katie Churchwell, 15th Dean, St. Paul's Episcopal Cathedral, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

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