A Pastoral Statement from Foundry UMC Clergy Following Supreme Court Decision Overturning Roe v. Wade

Have mercy upon us, O Lord, have mercy upon us,
For we have had more than enough of contempt.
- Psalm 123:3
 

Hearts already holding so much are heavier in reaction to today’s U.S. Supreme Court decision that overturned Roe v. Wade. Rumors, leaks, and stories circulating for over a month will make today no less painful for those whose right to bodily autonomy is being stripped from them by state legislatures. We lament the misogynistic decision of the Court that allows this to happen. We lament the decision of the Court as it will cause unnecessary physical harm to many who will not have access to safe treatment. The burden of this suffering will fall disproportionately upon the poor. 

The Court’s decision leaves many experiencing pain, fear, anxiety, and outrage for a variety of reasons, the fear of “reconsideration” of other hard-won freedoms among them. Your pastors are holding our community and our country in prayer as news of this expected decision is confirmed.

We remain firm in our commitment to advocate for reproductive rights and access to private, safe healthcare for all people. We understand that there are people of faith and conscience who hold nuanced perspectives on the ethical issues related to abortion. Yet we are clear that no perspective, religious or not, supersedes the right of every person to bodily autonomy and the ability to make healthcare decisions that affect their lives. We are clear that our faith calls us to advocate for spaces of care, safety, and support, not spaces that create desperation, fear, and harm.

Be assured that your pastors are here with and for you. We are praying for you, for those whose lives and freedom are threatened, and for all families who fear the future for their children. Be gentle with yourselves and with those who are most shaken by this decision. Listen to those who are most at risk of harm. And be bold in your advocacy for the rights and dignity of women, trans, and non-binary persons, and for their freedom to govern their own bodies. If you need extra care, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our clergy team.

May God’s mercy be upon us and upon our weary land.